Cliff, aren't you a member of a military re-enactment group?
They're allowed to buy blank firers and deactivated guns, maybe they'd let you buy a PR?
With regards to painting a 2-tone gun, I know airsofters that have bought 2-tone rifles and repainted them once they got their licence. You could just get a 2-tone gun, repaint it and if anyone queries it, just tell them you bought it like that second hand from someone
It should be noted that it is only illegal to sell a RIF, not to buy or own one. It is illegal to reapint a 2-tone gun, but the law as to what constitues a REALISTIC imitation firearm is somewhat hazy.
Easiest course of action IF you want a Snow Wolf airsoft rifle, if you know someone who has an airsoft licence get them to buy you one.
As Pulse Rifles are not real guns I think there maybe a little bit of latitude us costumers can get away with. Provided common sense is applied.
I quite happily walked through the centre of Colchester in full armour with my PR on their annual Invasion Colchester weekend without incident. However, if I were to do that on any regular day, THEN questions would be asked.
Similarly, when going to cons kit up when you get there and keep any weapons covered till you're at the event. Don't do what a certain Deadpool did a couple of years back when going to a con in London, who got on the train in full costume, complete with replica swords and toy guns. Only to find a police armed response unit waiting for him when he got to Kings Cross station.
But going back to the original question, it may be easier just to get a resin one for now. They DO need a bit of work doing to them (trimming, sanding, gluing, painting etc) to make them look decent, but this might be easier and cheaper. If chosing this option, you might want to look into getting a static ammo counter that lights up to fit to the side. Just for that extra bit of realism.