airbrushes

I've had many different types of airbrushes:

Single action external mix

Single action internal mix

Double action, gravity fed

Double action, siphon fed

My favorite is the Paasche H.  As mentioned, it's fool proof, easy to clean and can produce great results.  I airbrush enamels, lacquers and acrylics.  I've never had to soak my tips.  Cleaning takes about 2 minutes.  Color change is quick.  Just take off the current color bottle, shoot some thinner through the airbrush and then switch to the new color.

If you decide to purchase the Paasche H and later want to get a something else, the Paasche H would still be useful for single color and clear coat applications.

I've never have been able to master the double action.  I probably could, but I don't want to take the time and make the effort to.  You can master the Paasche H in just a few sittings.

-Jesse

keilau

 

ozzman:

I would not recommend double action, because those are slightly harder to clean, but a single action is perfect for a newbie.

 

I changed from a Paasche H (single action, external mix) to an Iwata Eclipse HP-CS (double action, internal mix) 2 years ago. I found the opposite to be true. The Iwata is easier to clean and keep going when changing color. At the end of the day, I take the needle out to clean more thoroughly. No soaking in cleaner needed as was the external mix airbrush. 

Agreed. I have an old Paasche H, Iwata Eclipse HP-CS, and Iwata HP-C Plus. Of the three, the Paasche is the most tempermental (probably needs new tips) and the biggest PITA to clean. The HP-C Plus can be a bit frustrating too, since the nozzle is pretty much microscopic and can't be cleaned out but for flushing and soaking, and the paint channel is a lot narrower than on the Eclipse. 

Just wondering what your budget is?

I myself would recommend the Badger Patriot 105 airbrush. It is a fantastic product, for a very reasonable price that will serve you faithfully as you learn, and as your skills progress.

ozzman

I would not recommend double action, because those are slightly harder to clean, but a single action is perfect for a newbie.

I changed from a Paasche H (single action, external mix) to an Iwata Eclipse HP-CS (double action, internal mix) 2 years ago. I found the opposite to be true. The Iwata is easier to clean and keep going when changing color. At the end of the day, I take the needle out to clean more thoroughly. No soaking in cleaner needed as was the external mix airbrush. 

ozzman

Try badger airbrushes (Badger 250) they have them at AC Moore for around 70 bucks i think

The Badger 250 is more a mini spray gun than an airbrush. Typically less than $15 itself and less than $30 in a kit with an air can.

I would not recommend double action, because those are slightly harder to clean, but a single action is perfect for a newbie. Try badger airbrushes (Badger 250) they have them at AC Moore for around 70 bucks i think

c.milne1

I am going to buy my first airbrush and I was wondering what is a good starting airbrush.

If you have a Hobby Lobby nearby, check out the Neo by Iwata. See this link.

I paid $36 plus tax. It is hard to beat that price for beginner or causal modeler not sure about long term need.

 I've been using a Paasche H since about 1965, and as others have said, it's basically indestructible. I've got a second one as a backup--just in case--and a double-action Iwata that I've never used. That said, let me give a piece of advice based on something I once heard from Ansel Adams, one of America's foremost photographers of the 20th century. During a lecture I attended, Adams told the audience not to ask him what type of film to use. Instead, he said to choose a film, get to know it and its characteristics, and get comfortable with it. In short, the film didn't matter as it was just a tool: the person behind the lens was what mattered. (Of course, it was inevitable that the first question he took was from a guy who asked what type of film he should use. Adams gave him a look that could kill, then simply turned and asked for another question from the audience.) So, make your choice from among the many very good airbrushes that are out there, get to know it, and hone your abilities with it. In the end, it's the person wielding the airbrush that matters....

You will need a compressor next. A good one will cost $100-$150, once again look at Hobby Lobby with their 40% off coupon. They have been running one every week lately. You can get one on their website, also.

Hoo Boy!!

As you have noticed, if you ask that question to ten people you will most likely get ten different answers and good sound arguments for all.  First you must consider what your budget will allow and what you want it to do for you.  I would, however recommend sticking to a quality name brand (Paasche, Badger, Iwata, etc.).  Find a supplier and see how it fits in your hand.  I do mainly automobiles, armor and aircraft.  I found the Paasche H to do all but the finest of lines and besides, its bomb-proof.  You have to be really ham handed to hurt it and once you get the routine down, it's a snap to clean.  It's been around for a good long time and for good reason.  An airbrush is only a tool, it's up to the operator to make it walk and talk.  Now, this is my opinion and you know what they say about opinions?!?!  I hope this helps.  Good luck

Michael B.

If you are willing to wait a bit for shipping head over here:

http://www.badgerairbrush.com/Garage_Sale.asp

I have picked up a couple using Badger's Garage Sale before, excellent quality brushes for the price of a cheap Chinese knock off, with full instructions and warranty.  Also, Badger AB parts are just about everywhere.

I got a Badger 100 for general stuff, and a Stencil Aire (really small detail stuff) for less than $100.00 for the pair.  

I will echo the Hobby Lobby coupon as well.  I had to drive a couple of hours south to get to one, but picked up my primary brush (Iwata HP-CS) for 40% off.  Love all of them.

Dont know if your in the U.S. or not but if you are and have a Hobby Lobby close by a good start is to get one of thier 40% off coupon and try an Iwata. Or try a Badger Patriot, or thier Renegade Airbrush Series, or Paasche Talon. I list these ae they are inexpensive and will still give you good results.

There are so many good air brushes out that narrowing it down is very hard, and you will find lots of opinions here as to which is best.

Best advice I can give is get the best one you can afford rather than going cheap and upgrading latter. You will be far happier with the results nad more likely to use it.  As they say buy once cry once.

A gravity fed double action brush would be your best starting point. As to which brand, it's a huge question but you would be better sticking to a reputable one who has reasonable spares availability.

You will pay more for a reputable brand (H&S, Iwata, Badger, Grex, Paasche..........), but you are more likely to get a consistent, reliable airbrush than if you go for a cheaper Chinese brush as quality, construction & reliability seems to vary by quite a large degree on them.