11 replies to this topic

[Janthlie]

Hi,

 

I want to step up to an airbrush system, but having a hard time choosing what to buy. I need not only the airbrush itself, but also a compressor and all the little bits and pieces to go. Is there some nice kits out there? What is the recommended pressure? How much airflow from the compressor (is 23 litre/min good enough?)

To my understanding a dual action is the best choice, but it seems to me that it can be hard to make a consistent spray, giving you can regulate both air and paint. Does any have a set-srew or something that makes me able to adjust the paint-/airflow?

 

Budget is about $2-300 for a complete set (if possible)

 

 

[trogdor]

Here is a link to an excellent starting point  https://sites.google...nsairbrushtips/  The site is done by a member here. Lots of good accurate information

[58 Impala]

If youre just getting started using an airbrush I would suggest learning with a single action airbrush. I bought a Paasche single action from Hobby Lobby with a 40% coupon for $50. Also you can go to a website called BearAir, they sell everything you could need. Their prices are reasonable and they are very helpful if you have any questions.

[CadillacPat]

Hi,
 
I want to step up to an airbrush system, but having a hard time choosing what to buy. I need not only the airbrush itself, but also a compressor and all the little bits and pieces to go. Is there some nice kits out there?

Jan you'll need an AirBrush, Compressor, Hose, Regulator and Water Trap.  It wouldn't hurt to put a second small water trap at the AirBrush.

 

 

What is the recommended pressure? How much airflow from the compressor (is 23 litre/min good enough?)

You need at least 35psi from the Compressor.  I paint at about 25psi, sometimes less and sometimes more depending on what is coming out of my Gun.

To my understanding a dual action is the best choice, but it seems to me that it can be hard to make a consistent spray, giving you can regulate both air and paint.

I would suggest for anyone to start by using a double action airbrush.  The guns are better made and atomize paint much finer.

I have several AirBrush Guns and when I used my first double action I wished I had started out with one.

A decent double action gun is only a few bucks more than a single action and still within your $300 total budget.

 

Does any have a set-srew or something that makes me able to adjust the paint-/airflow?

Good point!  Yes, any double action gun can be set to maintain a consistent paint flow.  Better guns can be purchased that have an additional set screw (mac screw) below the front of the gun making even further adjustments possible. 
 
Budget is about $2-300 for a complete set (if possible)

 

I've got a couple of AirBrush Tutorials on an AirBrush Forum Site about Guns and Compressors and links to find them.

I'll try to find the links and in the meantime I'm sure you'll get lots of recommendations from AirBrushers here.
 
 

[Cool Hand]

Iwata.

[scalenut]

My philosophy is ,concentrate on a  good compressor/ or co2 source, the best you can afford..it's the heart of your system and usually the most expensive part(including filters,hoses,fittings).

if it needs to be quiet/silent it's going to cost a bit more.

even if that means saving up a bit for a quality airbrush later

 

if you have a budget and sink most of it into a quality AB  and are forced to compromise on a cheapo compressor that can't do the job and pulsates  you might be disappointed in the long run.

 I would rather be stuck with a cheap learner AB and a quality quiet compressor for a while than the other way around 

Edited by scalenut, 17 December 2012 - 09:43 AM.

[Don Wheeler]

Have a look at what Donn Yost does with a single action Paasche H airbrush.

 

Don

[935k3]

Don Wheeler's site is an excellent resource for comparing airbrushes and seeing the parts. Iawatas are great, I have an Eclipse but replacement parts are expensive. Of all the airbrushes I have had I like my Iawata Eclipse and Paasche Talon. The Talon comes with a knob on the handle that lets you preset how far the needle can pull back which can give you a consistent spray like a single action. A similar handle is available for the Eclipse. There also are some good videos on  Youtube to help you decide.

[Janthlie]

Thanks for all the feedback, its much appreciated!

 

Now I just have to decide...

[CadillacPat]

Don't forget to watch eBay.

When my original Badger 180-11 Compressor finally bit the dust after 8 years or so of constant daily use, I purchased a brand new Badger Tornado 180-22 from eBay for $99 regular around $300.  It pushes 65psi, enough to run 2 guns. and, came with a Regulator.

I prefer these smaller type portable Compressors.

 

CadillacPat

[Janthlie]

I know about ebay, the biggest problem there is that mostly they are 110-120V, but we use 220-240 V in Norway, and the prices on ebay.co.uk, and ebay.de are a bit higher than in the US. but looking for bargains anyway, Im in no hurry to buy right now.

[Cool Hand]

Maybe check ebay.com.au, we use 240V. Although converting to our $ might be factor though.