Gun Metal vs Persian Violet

How close are they?

ΔE 49.7, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Persian Violet is a little darker, much more saturated than Gun Metal.

Can I use Persian Violet instead of Gun Metal?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 50). Persian Violet is a little darker, much more saturated than Gun Metal.

Can I use Gun Metal instead of Persian Violet?

The same difference applies the other way round: Gun Metal is a little lighter, much 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.