Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Primer

Zinsser Bulls Eye® 1-2-3 is the original universal water-based primer sealer for interior and exterior use. It delivers excellent adhesion to all surfaces without sanding, dries quickly, and provides a mould-resistant, rust-inhibitive basecoat that seals stains and prevents peeling.

Formulated for difficult surfaces like glossy paints, metal, PVC and high-pH masonry, Bulls Eye 1-2-3 is perfect for use on walls, ceilings, trims, doors, woodwork and exterior cladding. It contains a biocide to protect the dried film from fungal degradation, making it ideal for humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms.

It blocks stains from grease, graffiti, tannin bleed and more, while providing a water-resistant, enamel-holding surface for both oil and water-based topcoats. Available in white, grey and deep tint bases, it can be tinted to suit mid or dark topcoat colours.

Surface Preparation

• Clean, dry and sound surfaces only

• Remove grease, oil, dust, wax, mildew and loose material

• Treat mould with Zinsser Mould Killer or a biocidal wash

• Lightly sand or abrade glossy or weathered surfaces

• Remove rust and clean metal with alcohol

• Avoid applying to floors, decks or water-immersed areas

Technical Data

Type: Water-based acrylic resin primer sealer
Finish: Satin (approx. 23% gloss @ 60°)
Colour Options: White, Grey, Deep Tint Base
Tintable?: Yes – white can be tinted to pastel & mid tones
Sizes Available: 500ml, 1L, 2.5L, 5L, 10L (white only in 5L & 10L)
Coverage: ~10m² per litre
Touch Dry: 30–35 minutes
Recoatable: 1 hour
Full Cure: 7 days
Stain Sealing Time: General stains: 2 hours, tannin: 24 hours
Application Methods: Brush, roller, pad, airless sprayer
VOC: <30 g/L (low)
Rust Inhibitive: Yes – ideal for ferrous metals
Mould Protection: Contains biocide for film protection
Storage: 5°C–25°C, freeze/thaw stable
Shelf Life: 2 years (unopened)

Directions for Use

1. Stir well before use – do not thin unless necessary (max 10%)

2. Apply using brush, roller or sprayer (synthetic bristle recommended)

3. Prime entire surface for uniformity – spot priming may cause flashing

4. Touch dry in 30–35 mins, recoat after 1 hour

5. For tough stains or porous surfaces, apply a second coat

6. Clean tools with warm soapy water after use

Data Sheets

Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Primer - TDS

Zinsser Bulls Eye 123 Primer - MSDS