The real key is the use of a good primer. One for 
metal miniatures, like those by Games Workshop, 
or Floquil, if you can find it, would be an 
acceptable.

Light coats, two or three, to get good coverage 
will prevent loss of detail.

As for paints, I prefer acrylics, Tamiya, Testors 
or Polly-s are all good. They cannot be mixed 
across brands, but mix well inside brands, and 
can be thinned and cleaned up with water. If you 
spray, like with an airbrush, they don't leave a 
heavy mineral spirit smell like oils or enamels.

Probably more info than you need....

Oh, one more thing: wash the kit with bar soap 
and wyer and let dry before priming. This will 
remove any residual mold release which will cause 
paint to lift. Dish soap is not recommened, 
because it is frequently used as mold release.

Hope this helps.

Chris