Well, I am on the other side of the "argument."
However, ya need to be sure your cresting and clear overcoat paints are compatable with your crown.
I spray mine mainly because I don't like dip tubes.... Just me. I have actually gotten pretty good a getting the job done.
I do 95% carbon shafts so that also has something to do with it.....
For opague I use a thin coat applied with a foam brush. Just actually did a set of AD Trad Lites with the woodgrain finish. I wanted a darker upper shaft. Just foam brushed on some Minwax stain. Worked great. You can still see the wood grain.
Good luck....