noob spraying metallic: sanding question...

I am almost finished spraying a can of Reranch shoreline gold on a tele body--very thin coats, and pretty even. I have a few spots around the edges where I think I need a few more coats, so I guess I will break down and order another can, as my first one is empty.

Okay, my question: I have heard/read differing things about whether or not to sand metallic before clear. Some say level it out, then spray another coat or two, then go clear; others say absolutely don't touch it before the clear goes on. There is not a lot of dried overspray on the body, but there is a little bit, if you look for it. Any advice?

You'd only want to sand if there are defects, and it sounds like you avoided that. Sanding metallic leaves wierd marks so you need to recoat before the clear. Try to avoid the temptation of one last light coat of the metallic, because it wont lay the sparkles down the same way as the wetter coats under it, and it will not look consistent. I'd say you're good to go with the clear.

Mets are a bit more of a PITA than solids. The best overal result will happen if you get enough base on to cover. Then let dry a couple of days if it is a nitro base. Then lay one even coat over the whole thing. Tilt it around into the light and make sure there are no weird reflective spots. When it appears all even and consistent, then on with the clear. You will know after one coat if it is consistent. I use a refined DuPont product that is much thinner. I take a tack rag after the final base is on and dry, and then lightly dust off he build up that can occur in and around the bouts.