Need advise on purchasing an airbrush kit

rcmodeler wrote:

So here is the advise I need... I have limited resources ($$$) but based on the research I have found, a gravity feed, duel action airbrush is the way to go. I have found some inexpensive kits on ebay (that also come with a compressor) and would like to know if these are a complete waste of $$$ or is worth buying. In either case, about $75-110 is about the most i can afford for everything. So if these are duds and I should stay away, are there any other recommendations to consider within my price range? http://cgi.ebay.com/NEW-GRAVITY-FEED-AIRBRUSH-AIR-BRUSH-COMPRESSOR-KIT-NR_W0QQitemZ180293361129QQcmdZViewItem?hash=item180293361129&_trkparms=72%3A1205|39%3A1|66%3A2|65%3A12|240%3A1318&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14 http://cgi.ebay.ca/New-GRAVITY-FEED-AIRBRUSH-with-AIR-BRUSH-COMPRESSOR-KIT_W0QQitemZ200255574256QQihZ010QQcategoryZ28111QQcmdZViewItem

I have good experience with both sellers and the combo kits you picked are good money values. They will do ok with many user who airbrush occasionally. I will recommend NEITHER because they are bottom of the line items from the sellers. If you are a serious modeler, you want to save a bit longer to get their better quality items. The second seller, TCPGlobal/Airbrush-Depot is in San Diego and you don't need to go to Canadian Ebay to buy.

From TCPGlobal/Airbrush-Depot, you would like to get at least their name brand combo kit with the Master G-25 AB and TC-20 compressor:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Detail-DUAL-ACTION-AIRBRUSH-w-COMPRESSOR-Auto-Car-Nail_W0QQcmdZViewItemQQ_trksidZp1742Q2em153Q2el1262QQcategoryZ63702QQihZ010QQitemZ200257981557

It costs $55 more than your original choice. But it will be well worth it to get the more powerful compressor. We tend to take apart and clean the AB often. These cheaper Iwata clone don't last long under repeated cleaning. So it is a good idea to order an extra nozzle and a few spare needles when getting the kit.

Both the Powercat and TCP Master airbrush got some pretty good press report. I got a higher end Powercat airbrush (your first seller) with the MAV (micro air valve) out of curiosity. It actually works quite well. Good balance and fine atomization. I like it better than my old Paasche. But it is nowhere near the smooth and precise control of the Iwata HP-CS. I use my Iwata regularly, and put the Powercat away for rainy days.

If you can wait to save a bit longer, get the TCP combo kit with the Iwata HP-CS and the TC-20. You will not regret it.

Sorry to say it but in that price range you are not going to be able to get a compressor and an airbrush of any quality. My advice would be to buy an airbrush like the Thayer & Chandler Omni 4000 and get an airtank you can fill at a gas station or something for now until you can afford a compressor.

Go to www.dixieart.com. They have a good selection and good prices. They also have specs on each and tell you what they are best used for.

Andy