This was the very first mini I'd ever done. I use it as a measurement to see where I've come from. I painted this guy using your el cheapo craft paints and the $1.50 brush set. If you check out my other minis, you can see I've come a ways since this guy.
I have that same mini and I think its realy nice, I am very much looking forward to painting it.
Concerning your paintjob, well, you need more practice in shading and highlighting both metal and the beard.