Need to find an airbrush +compressor suitable for weathering HO wagons etc.
Would appreciate suggestions of something [brand/model/source] that has changeable tips, can do fine work, and is reasonably priced.
Thank you
Tanked
I am sure others will recommend a good airbrush. I suspect a double action since thats what is usually recommended for weathering. My paasche-H is a single action.
For the compressor… I recommend a “regular” air compressor from a home store with a modest storage tank (2 gallons is fine). This provides plenty of air, is reasonably priced (I paid $89 for my 2 gallon craftsman), and the tank will reduce pulsation in the line as well as keep the pump from running continuously.
Regards,
Chris
I ordered a single action airbrush and compressor from Airbrush City. I’m extremely happy with it. They have a lifetime warranty, too!
I’ve got a Paasche H1 that has served me well for about 32 years now. It’s a single action.
I bought a Paasche double-action a couple of years ago for finer work and it has served me well, too.
Craig
After trying cheaper models with little success I splashed out on a Badger 175 Crescendo set and never looked back, its double action and came with fine, medium & large tips and needles. This was twelve or more years ago and I still love it!As for compressors I would recommend one with a tank, larger the better as this reduces the amount of time it has to run while you are painting.Wholesaletrains has the airbrush sets for a good price, about three dollars more with a wood case.http://www.wholesaletrains.com/Detail.asp?Scale=None&Item=badst&ID=200455858
From what I have read so far, a good compressor is the other side of the coin - set should preferably have:
a regulator, water trap & an air tank - (so it can switch in & out & cut the constant noise). & be oil-free operation.
Push out up to about 45psi?
Have not found anything matching the above spec. under $140 - anyone know of something below that price??
Tanked
I don’t agree with oil free.
While not universally true, oil free compressors tend to be louder. I specifically shopped for a compressor that had oil lubrication.
Chris
No problems with microsopic oil globules getting into the paint?
That seems to be the issue for those that advocate oil free.
Tanked
Honestly, I had never heard of that before now, and I did quite a lot of research before settling on my current compressor.
I have not done any painting where the finish is fine enough I would have noticed. A quick search on google brought up a few references, noting that a filter (specifically a coalescent filter) could resolve that if it was an issue.
I would suggest doing your own research on that. I would not buy a large oil-free compressor. They are loud and will burn out sooner. However, its a different issue with the mini compressors specifically for air brushing. I would avoid an el-cheapo hobby compressor regardless.
Chris