So the blackened pins have some yellow brass showing through the finish, or is the problem that the pins are too shiny and need to be dulled? I think they look fine as-is. They are finely machined, and a slightly shiny finish mimics wood coated with varnish. Coating them with flat black paint may make the pin surfaces look lumpy or mat the edges less distinct, unless you use an air brush in lieu of a brush. This whole thing is one of the finest details to pay attention to, but when you are looking to make a first class model, which this is thus far, every detail counts.