Know how your hand wears the black finish off just below the shift ****? (I have actually changed how I grab the **** so I don't do it) It should probably be viewed as adding character, but....lets say you want to get the new look back. I don't think paint is going to work because of thickness, adhesion, etc.
So what about gun barrel bluing. (The stuff Birchwood Casey makes) Anyone tried it, think that would do the trick? I may get some next time in gun store and try it.

 

I don't know exactly how 'involved' you are with your truck (how far you would be willing to go with refinishing it), but one option may be powdercoating. How is the **** attached, thread-on? If so, you could send the lever to a powdercoater, and request that they tape off the threads.

Powdercoat looks just like paint, but it is MUCH tougher, especially 'Mirror Gloss Black' from Columbia Coatings.

 

I think christian is on to something. if you use a powder coat or even a bed liner spray you will not have to worry about that every wearing off again