I plan on getting mine media blasted and then going to rattle can with a high temp paint...most likely rustoeum. My original thoughts were to powder coat it and,with an insulated firebox would probably be ok with it not pealing. One of the members pointed out that his pit is a constant work in progress and I feel mine will be too. I would never cut into powder coat but spray paint gives me the ability add brackets and then touch up with a consistent finish.
Have you used the search feature and searched for ( paint)? There's several good threads about it. My experience is that if it isn't insulated the paint won't stay on the FB. But the rest does pretty good with the good ole rust oleum. I clean the outside after the first good hot burn and season, with a wire brush. Then I use xylene, then let dry and either brush it on or spray it.
Making memories.
Current Smokers: Backyard RF Offset and Hybrid RF Offset trailer rig with Cowboy cooker and fish fryer, always room for more........