What is the difference between RLM 81 Version 1 and Medium Drab?

ΔE 6 (close). Medium Drab is more saturated. Swatch colours are estimates.

RLM 81 Version 1 vs Medium Drab

RLM 81 Version 1

Brand: AK Interactive
Range: 3rd Gen Air Series
Code: AK11835
Type: an opaque base/layer paint
Swatch: #585745 (estimate)

Medium Drab

Brand: Army Painter
Range: Warpaints Historical
Code: WP4022P
Type: an opaque base/layer paint
Swatch: #545337 (estimate)

How close are they?

ΔE 6.5, close: similar, with a visible difference side by side. Medium Drab is more saturated than RLM 81 Version 1.

Can I use Medium Drab instead of RLM 81 Version 1?

Usually, if you are not matching paint already on the model. Close match (ΔE 6). Medium Drab is more saturated than RLM 81 Version 1.

Can I use RLM 81 Version 1 instead of Medium Drab?

The same difference applies the other way round: RLM 81 Version 1 is more muted.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.

See RLM 81 Version 1 on the colour wheel See Medium Drab on the colour wheel

Other Army Painter paints close to RLM 81 Version 1

RLM 81 Version 1 vs Tundra TaupeWarpaints Fanatic · ΔE 4, very close · closer than Medium Drab
RLM 81 Version 1 vs Venom WyrmWarpaints Legacy · ΔE 4, very close · closer than Medium Drab
RLM 81 Version 1 vs Ammo Pouch Brown (WP4130P)Warpaints Historical · ΔE 8, close

Other AK Interactive paints close to Medium Drab

Medium Drab vs Olive Drab Base (AK11334)3rd Gen AFV Series · ΔE 4, very close · closer than RLM 81 Version 1
Medium Drab vs IJN M3 (N) Nakajima Interior Green (AK11897)3rd Gen Air Series · ΔE 5, very close · closer than RLM 81 Version 1
Medium Drab vs IJA #7 Ohryuko Nana Go Shoku (Olive Brown) (AK11901)3rd Gen Air Series · ΔE 5, very close · closer than RLM 81 Version 1

All matches: RLM 81 Version 1 equivalents · Medium Drab equivalents