Zinsser Bullseye 123 vs Coverstain. Main differences?

[DIYNotIan]

Hi all

Got a 2/3s full tin of Zinsser Bullseye 123 which has seemingly "gone off" and so needs discarding and replacing. It seems to have almost doubled in price since I last got some!

I've read good things about Coverstain and am wondering whether I should get some of that instead. It's cheaper first of all. And also someone told me that it can work as a primer over silicone, which might be handy in the future. I use the primer most for wood, both interior and exterior. Sometimes bare wood and sometimes previously painted.

What are the main differences and pros/cons of the two paints?

Cheers

Max

 

[DavidSWP]

I've used both products to prime over old gloss paint and coverstain adheres to the surface much better than 123. Even if you sand the surface first you can scratch off 123 with a fingernail. No idea about over silicone.

Coverstain is white spirit based so you do have the added hassle of having to clean your brushes using that. It doesn't smell to strongly though imo.