Hi Tom,, welcome!
I agree with Steve, practice is the air brush ticket. For most jobs I use the single action Paasche, but you will get used to the double-action soon enough.
I too remember the kits you mentioned (Munsters, German chrome helmut hot rod, etc. etc.),, they were great fun. I also enjoyed the movie monser builds, Frankenstein, Mummy, Dracula, and so on... good memories.
Best of luck with the hobby,,,, be sure to share some pictures
Bill