Hi Folks,
I am a beginning air brusher. Right now Hobby Lobby has a 40% off coupon in the paper for a one item purchase. The HL near me carries a Paasche external mix and Iwata internal single (I think) and double actions.
As a beginner, I am looking for something rather inexpensive. If I develop a reasonable talent and like for air brushing, I will probably move up later.
Opinions?
Yours in Model Railroading,
Their prices are pretty high on their airbrushes.The Paasche model H single action is $80. I’ve seen that same brush for around $40 or so. Even with 40% off it’s still overpriced.I’ve got one and it works well for the money. It’s nothing fancey but it gets the job done. You can get three different size tips for it but it only comes with one.
Hunt around some on-line art supply stores and you might find a better deal even without a coupon. Just Google “airbrush”
[quote user=“D&RGWRR476”]
Hi Folks,
I am a beginning air brusher. Right now Hobby Lobby has a 40% off coupon in the paper for a one item purchase. The HL near me carries a Paasche external mix and Iwata internal single (I think) and double actions.
As a beginner, I am looking for something rather inexpensive. If I develop a reasonable talent and like for air brushing, I will probably move up later.
Opinions?
Yours in Model Railroading,
/quote]
Ask ten painters and you might get ten answers, but I prefer the Paasche single action H model. They are easy to clean and do a great job of painting if you practice and know how to use it. Many prefer the double action so they can control the air and paint, but I use a regulator and prefer to control the air flow with the regulator and oil trap combination.
I cannot comment on anything else, as I bought a Paasche single stage external mix unit 25 years ago, and have never looked back, and see no need to think about another one anytime soon. I believe I have bought three more bottle tops and several ‘O’ rings.
I have a Paasche H that I got about 25 years ago…the only trouble was my fault I dropped it on the tip…Got a new tip from Paasche no problem…I don’t think I’ll ever need another but if I did it would be another Paasche…Cox 47
I’ve owned a Paasche VL for 20 years. Outstanding performer. Only reason that it’s on the fritz now is because I’ve dropped it twice on concrete (klutz!)
I spent years spraying with various paint spray guns and airbrushes and can tell you sincerely that this is a Honda vs. Toyota scenario. Both good brands with good models that have their advantages and disadvantages when compared to each other.
It’s a little more money but for modelers planning on doing varied styles of painting ( overall, thin lines, color fades, weathering ) I always recommend dual action airbrushes. Quality single action air brushes do a great job, but dual action let’s you do more.
IWATA, Paasche and don’t forget Badger are good quality brands that offer economy and “high end” airbrush models.
Not all stores offer this, but if possible test the airbrush or have the store owner test it for you as you observe. Some stores have compressors already set up. It’s easy to test with plain water. Look at the atomization of the droplets in relation to the air pressure. If it’s dual action, adjust the pattern as you spray.
Also be willing to spend the extra minutes to properly clean your airbrush. That will help it last 20 years! (just, try not do drop it![:P]) One more thing, if you decide to spray with solvent based paints, flush out with lacquet thinner after each use. With acrylic paints, I prefer 70% alchohol though clean water works also. Always wipe off the air cap and needle.
Hope this helps[:D]
If you paint over carpet with padding, you can drop your airbrush without harming the airbrush. You and the carpet may suffer however.[:)]