Quick answer

Choose Citadel Leadbelcher for a smooth, matt metallic base on weapons and armor, and Retributor Armour for a rich gold finish on characters and details.

Why the finish matters

The main difference between these two sprays is the final look. Leadbelcher gives a subdued, realistic metallic that works well for steel, iron, and dark armor. Retributor Armour delivers a bright, warm gold that makes heroes and ornate pieces stand out on the tabletop.

Practical trade-offs

Leadbelcher's matt finish is forgiving if you want to apply washes or contrast paints directly over it. Retributor Armour's metallic sheen can be trickier to shade evenly, but it saves time when painting gold-trimmed armies like Stormcast Eternals or Custodes.

Leadbelcher vs Retributor Armour: Trade-offs at a glance

  • Leadbelcher – when to choose it: Use Leadbelcher when you want a neutral metallic base that works for most weapons, machinery, or dark armor. Its matt finish makes it easy to shade and highlight. Best for bulk-painting infantry or vehicles where you need a consistent, non-reflective metal.
  • Retributor Armour – when to choose it: Use Retributor Armour when your model needs a bright gold undercoat, especially for characters, heraldry, or armies with gold as a primary color. Saves hours of brush-painting gold layers, but be prepared to use a wash to add depth.
  • The shared advantage: Both sprays use the new red nozzle design and 400ml cans, giving you controlled application and consistent coverage across your miniatures.

Product facts

  • Citadel - Leadbelcher Spray Paint: Smooth matt finish (uses the new red spray nozzle), 400ml (14.1 Oz). The matt surface accepts washes and contrast paints without pooling unevenly, speeding up your painting process.

    Citadel - Leadbelcher Spray Paint

    Citadel - Leadbelcher Spray Paint

  • Citadel - Retributor Armour Spray Paint: Realistic metallic finish (uses the new red spray nozzle), 400ml (14.1 Oz). The gold tone is vibrant enough to serve as a base for gold armor without needing multiple coats of layer paint.

    Citadel - Retributor Armour Spray Paint

    Citadel - Retributor Armour Spray Paint

Which one fits your project?

Best for

  • Painting Space Marines, Necrons, or dark fantasy armies that need steel/silver tones
  • Hobbyists who want a quick metallic base that accepts washes and contrast paints easily

Not for

  • Painting gold-heavy armies like Stormcast Eternals or Custodes (choose Retributor Armour instead)
  • Projects that require a non-metallic, flat primer (choose a matte grey or black spray)