Airbrush - Single vs. Double Action?

Model Railroader General Discussion (Model Railroader)
1

Hi,

I would like to buy an airbrush, but I am wondering what the differences and limitations are between a single action and a double action and I would buy one over the other? I will use it to weather cars and buildings.

Thanks, Hansel

2

Weathering is best done with a double action. It allows for finers control of the paint/air.

3

Dumb question…

What does finer control mean? Bigger or smaller circle? Bigger or smaller paint droplets?

4

You can paint finer lines. The button pushes down AND rocks back and forth. The back and forth controls the paint flow allowing you to put a more precise amount of paint where you want it. A single action tends to put down too much paint for a realistic weathering effect even when using the finest tip.

5

Go with the double action. Like said above, you have better control over paint coverage, painting finer lines, and just a better control all together. It IS a little harder to use then a single action, but after an hr. you will get used to it. you’ll be glad you got one. A single action lets you spray just paint. A double action lets you control the amount of air going out the gun and also the amount of paint being sprayed with the air. The farther you push down on the trigger the more air comes out, the farther you pull back on the trigger the more paint comes out. So you are controlling 2 things at once. It’s like you can paint something and use the air from the gun to dry it. Although the paint should be dry seconds after hitting the part anyhow.

Mike

6

Thanks everyone for their input.