Black guns became desert tan, and then tan became OD green. OD green became neon zombie green. Now it seems that metallic and/or aged-looking finishes are a growing trend. Though custom colors have long been popular with gun owners, demand for more options is leading to additional choices from manufacturers and to a wider range of aftermarket products for customizing firearms aesthetics.

At the American Tactical Imports booth, I noticed these STG-44s by German Sports Guns in non-standard colors. I asked the rep about them, and he explained that these are samples of “potential” finishes for the .22LR re-creation of the world’s first assault rifle. He also mentioned the possibility of custom color finishes for a specific company or organization. So while these variant colors are not available today, we may see them or others in the future if there is enough interest.

But, please, no pink.