To paint, or NOT to paint

This is something I have considered for several years now, but have not pulled the trigger. One exception was an inexpensive .22LR rifle. If you lay it down, you will trip over it before you see it.

On the one hand, I want to because black does not blend into the background. On the other, I am afraid of messing something up on my weapon. $2+K is hard to pull that trigger on.

Any thoughts as to do, not to do, why, why not to, what to protect, etc.

I've seen a lot of folks paint their various weapons with no ill effect.
I would simply find some videos to watch for a reference. Have never done it myself.

I paint all of my tactical rifles and most of my hunting rifles. I have never found a reason not to do it.