Texturing Tips + Render Problems

[SakuyaFM]

Hello guys, my name's SakuyaFM. I'm fairly new to 3D graphics, and I've recently downloaded the 3D Studio Max trial. My friend referred me to that program and I like it so far.

Here's my predicament: My friend gave me a bunch of models, but they are all in a grey texture. I tried texturing them in 3ds but somehow they just look flat. BTW I am trying to texture a KRISS Super V submachine-gun. Does anyone have tips on how to make more realistic materials that look like gunmetal?

Also, whenever I render at the highest settings (I think it's mental.ray.daylight or something like that) the model just refuses to be rendered. It only displays a silhouette and I have to force the exposure to Nighttime (I do have experience in photography so that's not new to me at all). I tried placing all sorts of lights but to no success. I've tried following the "studio setup" tutorials in the site, but it doesn't work, either. What am I doing wrong?