RLM 81 Version 1 AK Interactive lacquer paint card (#4B453C)

RLM 81 Version 1 is a lacquer from AK Interactive, commonly used for armour plates, cloth, and trim work.

Quick Equivalents

• Closest equivalent: the strongest substitute listed on this page
• Vallejo equivalent: no close Vallejo equivalent
• Army Painter equivalent: no close Army Painter equivalent

How to Use RLM 81 Version 1

This paint is typically used for:

• basecoating warm orange armour and weapons
• layering and highlighting on large flat surfaces

Apply it over a suitable primer and build layers gradually. Coverage sits around reliable, so two thin coats usually give a more stable finish than one heavy pass, especially over a dark primer.

Paint Behavior and Tips

Consider the following when working with this paint:

• Coverage: reliable — affects how many coats are needed over primer
• Dilution: controlled thinning — keeping the right ratio maintains flow and prevents brushmarks
• Interaction with washes and highlights: always run a highlight pass to verify the tone does not shift after drying

A good equivalent should remain stable after shading and highlighting. Test this alternative on the same primer and in the same recipe before switching a whole unit.

Miniature Painting Tips

For best results with RLM 81 Version 1 on Warhammer and other miniature projects:

• Use the same primer across the project to keep tonal consistency
• Test on a spare part before applying to a full unit
• Compare after shading and highlights, not just the base coat

Even small differences can become visible on a finished miniature. This match may behave differently on textured surfaces like cloth, fur, and metal trim once the full recipe is applied.

Conclusion

Choosing the right RLM 81 Version 1 equivalent or substitute keeps your scheme consistent from the test model to the full army. Use this comparison to weigh the closest Vallejo, Army Painter, and other cross-brand options before repainting a whole squad.