The 5 Best etching primers (2023 reviews)

The raptor etching primer gives the top-tier primer a run for their money by offering flagship advantages at a much more affordable price. Phosphoric acid ester formula promotes paint adhesion to difficult substrates, like galvanized steel and aluminum. It can be used on bare metal to prep for bed liner. It offers a large fan pattern and excellent coverage. It is ideal for rub through the primer prior to application of color and new bare metal panels.

The primer is great to hit bare spots of metal, drys smooth and is a definite purchase along with the raptor liner kit. It can be used on non painted surfaces. It can be used after electroplating as long as the item is kept clean from grease, dirt or any other environmental damage.

Why We Like This:

Creates an anti-corrosive barrier that prevents steel from rusting
Highly recommended for any bare-metal application
One of the new comers and featured product

Best For engine Paint: VHT Excellent Primer

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This is the way to go for metal prep before using paint. It takes two to three coats to cover bare aluminum with this thin green tinged primer. This primer is very thin-bodied and needs to be applied in VERY LIGHT coats. The first coat will appear blotchy and irregular, that's fine. This is used to get good adhesion to difficult to paint materials such as aluminum. This is an excellent primer, especially for use on aluminum which is usually very difficult to paint, but the method of application is NOT like other primers.

Why We Like This:

Wets out great, does not run, dries to a nice flat olive green color
Excellent self-etch primer, especially for aluminum
Great etching primer for auto use

Best For Aluminum: SEM self etching Primer

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The sem self etching primer should be able to handle its purpose and duties with ease. Self etching is the way to go on aluminum to get a quality job and have a top coat that will last. This product should be used as a DTM (direct to metal) primer. It’s very thin with almost the consistency of water. It is easy to apply gun or brush, no need for thinning.

Why We Like This:

Delivers what they promise
Good brand reputation

Best For Metal: SEM etching Primer

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If you often find yourself confused about convenient and suitable primer, sem etching primer is your end point. If you are working with any kind of metal this is the best primer you can get.

Why We Like This:

New and hot release
Delivers what they promise

Best For spot repairs: VHT etching Primer

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Compared with other primer in this category, the vht etching primer has a convenient design.

Why We Like This:

Superior etching ability on bare surfaces
Dry to touch in 30 minutes / handle in 1 hour
Sprays even, sands down well if you let it fully dry