Retired and Back

[JohnS]

Actually have never been a member here- have been out of modeling for years but I retired a few years ago and now have time to pursue some personal interests. I was a tool and model maker for most of my life in aerospace, medical, and border security (ct scanning truck, auto, cargo) fields. I've always been interested in model car building and have recently discovered this site. I'm amazed at some of the detail and skilled work that I see here. So a question - what should I start out with for an airbrush? I've only used spray cans before and want to up my painting skill. Thanks, John

[Kromolly]

I was out of the hobby for 25 years myself until recently, and back then (mid-'90s  in my 30s) only for a couple of years.  I hadn't built since I was a kid and had only used rattle cans.  I think you'll find a lot of opinions here.  In my brief time building in the '90s I bought a good quality Badger 175 dual action airbrush and never regretted it.  Funds were very limited back then and I remember going early on Black Friday with a Michael's 50% off coupon to buy that.  I happened to pick up  Paasche VL dual action airbrush recently at Goodwill and I like that too.  It's very similar to the Badger.  I like being able to start the air and gradually add paint, and I use the air only to blow the surface off before shooting paint.  It may not accomplish anything but it makes me feel like I did something. I agree with what others have posted, don't buy a cheap "starter" airbrush.  

[PappyD340]

Welcome to the forum John!

[Miatatom]

Airbrush = Paasche H. Inexpensive and very versatile.

[Captain Spaulding]

Welcome to the forum.

[Ramfins59]

Welcome to our plastic playground John.

[Rich Chernosky]

Welcome to the forum John.  Glad to see you have decided on a rewarding and satisfying hobby. On the subject of airbrushes you will get as many opinions as there are members here.  The best one is the one that works for you. I have been fortunate to be able to try many airbrushes. There are two types....external mix and internal mix. Both have advantages.  External mix is the simpliest and  I would recommend starting there. Easy to clean, easy to use.  Someone here recommended Paasche H and that is my go to.  There are other things to consider also.  Airsource and a place to spray. Spray booth with ventilation highly recommended.  But in my experience the most important thing is learning how to clean it. I own 7 airbrushes but have only ever bought one.  Most of what I have  were given to me because they were clogged after a few uses and they didn't know how to properly clean them.  That should tell you something. 

[slusher]

Welcome John!

[hedotwo]

On 2/26/2021 at 10:55 PM, Miatatom said:

Airbrush = Paasche H. Inexpensive and very versatile.

x2....  and welcome aboard John!