What airbrush should I get?

[69chevelle]

I want to get an airbrush but I don`t know what kind to get. I have been looking at testors airbrushes, does anybody have one or used one? I don`t want to spend more than $75, I Think my compressor will work with most airbrushes.

[Dave Ambrose]

I'm using a Paasche VL and I like it a lot. It's a double action airbrush that lets you control the paint flow while spraying. Unlike many double action brushes, it has an adjustment for minimum paint flow, which lets you use it like a single action brush.

With the minimum adjustment, you can start single action and work into double action when you want to.

The Paasche VL set goes for $69 at Dixie Art, and its capabilities will last a lifetime.

If you don't have one already, you will need a filter and regulator for your air compressor.

[69chevelle]

I decided to get the paasche talon, it is a dual action gravity feed.

I ordered it from amazon last night for $64.

[Junkman]

64 bucks is dumping price. Congrats!

[Guest]

I use a Badger Crescendo 175T. Bought it in about 95 or so, the only thing I have replaced in that time is the tip. Been a great airbrush. Got it at Michaels. Got the kit which has 3 needles and 3 tips, plus 1 small and 1 large color jar, and a metal touchup jar. Used a 40% off coupon, so it cost me 50 bucks!

[Pete J.]

It really doesn't matter what you get if you follow some simple rules.

1. Buy a name brand:Badger, Iwata, Tamiya, Paache or Grex. All the others are knockoffs of their designs and the quality control can be very spotty. This is a precision instrument and getting the best will never disappoint you.

2. Get a double action. They can be set to use like a single action when you start and when you have learned how to use the double action it will be helpful in doing fades. It is very difficult to make a single action do what a double action does with ease.

3. Get one with a Teflon seal. If you are going to spray lacquers you will need it or the brush will not last long.

4. Get one that feels good in your hand. Very important. Trigger positions and weight are a big factor in how the brush feels and how easy it is for you to use.

5. Check disassembly. The easier it is to disassemble, the easier it is to clean. This is a precision instrument and cleaning is critical. I suggest one with a removable paint cup. It lets you get down inside of the brush with a cotton swab to clean it.

6. If a brush comes with extra tips and needles that is good for different paints but not a real requirement. If you are trying to paint bodies, a wide tip is best. If you want detail than a fine tip would be the choice.

7. Go to an convention if you can. The various distributors will be there and you can get a chance to use it with paint.

8. Good luck and don't let the sweet taste of a bargain be soured by a poor quality piece. A bargain airbrush is only a bargain if it works well.