Gunsmith Gray CW-65 by Benjamin Moore

If you’re searching for a paint color that effortlessly balances sophistication and warmth, let me introduce you to Benjamin Moore’s Gunsmith Gray (CW-65). This isn’t just another gray—it’s a chameleon of a shade, adapting to your space with a quiet confidence that makes it a standout choice for almost any room. Whether you’re aiming for a cozy bedroom retreat, a sleek modern living room, or a farmhouse-inspired kitchen, this color has the versatility to deliver.

Gunsmith Gray is a dark, muted gray with subtle yellow undertones, giving it an earthy, grounded feel. The hex code #858374 and RGB values (133, 131, 116) place it firmly in the neutral territory, but don’t let that fool you—this color has depth. Its Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of 23.77% means it reflects a fair amount of light, so while it’s dark, it won’t swallow up a room. Instead, it creates a sense of intimacy without feeling heavy. The undertones are key here; that hint of yellow keeps it from feeling cold, making it a fantastic choice if you want gray but worry about it feeling too sterile.

One of the best things about Gunsmith Gray is how forgiving it is. Whether you’re a DIY beginner or a seasoned painter, you’ll appreciate its smooth application. It’s roller-ready, brush-friendly, and offers excellent coverage in just one to two coats. Touch-ups? No problem. The finish options—matte, eggshell, and satin—give you flexibility depending on the room’s needs. Matte is perfect for a soft, velvety look in low-traffic areas like bedrooms, while satin’s slight sheen makes it durable enough for kitchens or hallways. And because it’s low-VOC and eco-certified, you can breathe easy knowing it’s a healthier choice for your home.

So where does this color shine? Pretty much everywhere. In a living room, Gunsmith Gray creates an inviting backdrop that pairs beautifully with both warm wood tones and crisp white trim. Try it on an accent wall behind a leather sofa or a gallery wall—it’ll make artwork pop without competing for attention. In a bedroom, it sets a serene, grounding mood, especially when layered with soft textiles in creams or blush tones. For a home office, it’s a winner; the muted quality helps minimize distractions while the warmth keeps the space from feeling too corporate. Even in a kitchen, it works surprisingly well, especially in modern farmhouse or industrial settings where it complements stainless steel appliances and open shelving.

Lighting plays a big role in how this color performs. In rooms flooded with natural light, Gunsmith Gray takes on an almost soft, weathered quality—think aged metal or driftwood. In dimmer spaces, it can feel deeper and moodier, so if you’re using it in a room with limited light, balance it with lighter furnishings or reflective surfaces like mirrors. And don’t forget artificial light! Warm bulbs will bring out the yellow undertones, while cooler bulbs can neutralize them slightly. Always test a swatch in your space at different times of day to see how it shifts.

Pairing this color is where the fun begins. For trim, you can’t go wrong with classic white like Benjamin Moore’s White Dove—it creates a crisp contrast that lets Gunsmith Gray shine. If you prefer a more monochromatic look, try deeper grays or taupes for trim. Wood trim, especially in medium to dark stains, adds richness and warmth. When it comes to furnishings, lean into its versatility. Navy blues (its complementary hue) make a striking pairing, while mustard yellows or burnt oranges play up its earthy side. For a softer approach, creams, taupes, and blush pinks keep things airy and relaxed.

Now, let’s talk about the cons—because no color is perfect. Gunsmith Gray can appear darker in low-light rooms, so if your space lacks windows or has poor lighting, you might want to consider a lighter shade or amp up the artificial light. The yellow undertones, while usually an asset, can clash with certain colors (like cool grays or stark whites), so test your combinations carefully. And while it’s incredibly versatile, it’s not the best fit for ultra-modern or minimalist spaces where a crisper, cooler gray might be more appropriate.

If you’re still on the fence, here’s the bottom line: Gunsmith Gray is a workhorse of a color. It’s elegant without being fussy, warm without being overwhelming, and adaptable enough to grow with your style. Whether you’re painting a single wall or an entire home, it brings a sense of calm and sophistication that’s hard to beat. So grab a sample, brush it on your wall, and see how it transforms your space. You might just find it’s the perfect shade you’ve been searching for.

Real Room Photo of Gunsmith Gray CW-65

Undertones of  Gunsmith Gray ?

The undertones of Gunsmith Gray are a key aspect of its character, leaning towards Yellow. These subtle underlying hues are what give the color its depth and complexity. For example, a gray with a blue undertone will feel cooler and more modern, while one with a brown undertone will feel warmer and more traditional. It’s essential to test this paint in your home and observe it next to your existing furniture, flooring, and decor to see how these undertones interact and reveal themselves throughout the day.

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HEX value: #858374

RGB code: 133, 131, 116

Is  Gunsmith Gray Cool or Warm?

This color has a balanced warmth that makes it feel inviting without overwhelming the senses. In spaces with warmer furnishings, the gray tones harmonize beautifully, while in cooler settings, it serves as a grounding element that ties everything together.

Understanding Color Properties and Interior Design Tips

Hue refers to a specific position on the color wheel, measured in degrees from 0 to 360. Each degree represents a different pure color:

• 0° represents red
• 120° represents green
• 240° represents blue

Saturation describes the intensity or purity of a color and is expressed as a percentage:

• At 0%, the color appears completely desaturated—essentially a shade of gray
• At 100%, the color is at its most vivid and vibrant

Lightness indicates how light or dark a color is, also expressed as a percentage:

• 0% lightness results in black
• 100% lightness results in white

Using Warm Colors in Interior Design

Warm hues—such as reds, oranges, yellows, warm beiges, and greiges—are excellent choices for creating inviting and energetic spaces. These colors are particularly well-suited for:

• Kitchens, living rooms, and bathrooms, where warmth enhances comfort and sociability
• Large rooms, where warm tones can help reduce the sense of emptiness and make the space feel more intimate

For example:

• Warm beige shades provide a cozy, inviting atmosphere, ideal for living rooms, bedrooms, and hallways.
• Warm greige (a mix of beige and gray) offers the warmth of beige with the modern appeal of gray, making it a versatile backdrop for dining areas, bedrooms, and living spaces.

However, be mindful when using warm light tones in rooms with limited natural light. These shades may appear muted or even take on an unpleasant yellowish tint. To avoid a dull or flat appearance:

• Add depth by incorporating richer tones like deep greens, charcoal, or chocolate brown
• Use textured elements such as curtains, rugs, or cushions to bring dimension to the space

Pro Tip: Achieving Harmony with Warm and Cool Color Balance

To create a well-balanced and visually interesting interior, mix warm and cool tones strategically. This contrast adds depth and harmony to your design.

• If your walls feature warm hues, introduce cool-colored accents such as blue or green furniture, artwork, or accessories to create contrast.
• For a polished look, consider using a complementary color scheme, which pairs colors opposite each other on the color wheel (e.g., red with green, orange with blue).

This thoughtful mix not only enhances visual appeal but also creates a space that feels both dynamic and cohesive.

Light Temperature Affects on Gunsmith Gray

Natural Light

Natural daylight changes in color temperature as the sun moves across the sky. At sunrise and sunset, the light tends to have a warm, golden tone with a color temperature around 2000 Kelvin (K). As the day progresses and the sun rises higher, the light becomes cooler and more neutral. Around midday, especially when the sky is clear, natural light typically reaches its peak brightness and shifts to a cooler tone, ranging from 5500 to 6500 Kelvin. This midday light is close to what we perceive as pure white or daylight-balanced light.

These shifts in natural light can significantly influence how colors appear in a space, which is why designers often consider both the time of day and the orientation of windows when planning interior color schemes.

Artificial Light

When choosing artificial lighting, pay close attention to the color temperature, measured in Kelvin (K). This determines how warm or cool the light will appear. Lower temperatures, around 2700K, give off a warm, yellow glow often used in living rooms or bedrooms. Higher temperatures, above 5000K, create a cool, bluish light similar to daylight, commonly used in kitchens, offices, or task areas.

Use the slider to see how lighting temperature can affect the appearance of a surface or color throughout a space.

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LRV of Gunsmith Gray

The Light Reflectance Value (LRV) of Gunsmith Gray is 23.77%, which places it in the Medium colors category. This means it reflect a lot of light. Understanding a paint’s LRV is crucial for predicting how it will look in your space. A higher LRV indicates a lighter color that reflects more light, making rooms feel larger and brighter. A lower LRV signifies a darker color that absorbs more light, creating a cozier, more intimate atmosphere. Always consider the natural and artificial lighting in your room when selecting a paint color based on its LRV.

Detailed Review of  Gunsmith Gray

Gunsmith Gray is a remarkable shade that offers both understated elegance and timeless appeal. Its muted quality allows it to adapt seamlessly to various decor styles, from modern farmhouse to industrial chic. One of its standout features is its versatility; it can warm up a space or lend a sophisticated edge, depending on how it’s used. The application process is smooth and forgiving, making it a great choice for DIY enthusiasts and seasoned painters alike. Whether you’re looking to create an accent wall or envelop an entire room, this color performs beautifully, providing excellent coverage in just one to two coats. Its ability to complement natural light while also standing strong in dimmer settings makes it a go-to for many homeowners. Overall, Gunsmith Gray is more than just a color; it’s a statement.

Pros & Cons of  CW-65 Gunsmith Gray

Colors that go with Benjamin Moore Gunsmith Gray

FAQ on CW-65 Gunsmith Gray

Can Gunsmith Gray be used in a small room?

Absolutely! Gunsmith Gray can work beautifully in small spaces. Its muted tones can actually help to make a small room feel larger when paired with lighter furnishings and ample natural light. Just be mindful of the overall lighting in the room, as it may appear darker in dim settings.

What finishes are available for Gunsmith Gray?

Gunsmith Gray comes in several finishes, including matte, eggshell, and satin. Each finish offers a different aesthetic and level of durability, so you can choose based on the room’s function and your personal style preferences. Matte is great for a soft, subtle look, while satin provides a bit more sheen and durability, making it easier to clean.

Comparisons Gunsmith Gray with other colors

Official Page of Benjamin Moore Gunsmith Gray CW-65