Interesting point, and something I am now considering as I'm building my PSK.<br><br>Stripping and recoating the tin would maximize the total reflective surface, which might come in handy if all you could muster in an emergency was to dangle the tin from a cord and let the breeze move the mirror.<br><br>In terms of protecting the metal from the elements, I think you are correct, and further, putting a finish over the Altoids paint might be even better.<br><br>I'm also wondering if it would be better to add a true mirror to the PSK. If only there was an ultra-thin plastic signalling mirror that was custom shaped to fit in an Altoids tin. It seems to me that having a rigid mirror would not only provide better reflectivity in terms of signalling, but might come in handy if you needed to check an injury on your backside for instance. Does the clear-coated tin and/or aluminum tape provide a decent reflection for these types of purposes?