Using the Testors airbrush kit before buying an actual airbrush system

I used a Badger brush with Propel at first.  Lousy results.  I eventually got a cheapie compressor that gave me a stable, but too high pressure.  Better paint results, but still not real good.  Then I went to a system with a proper compressor and regulator.  Big difference.  Many people spray at too high a pressure.  Do you want all matt finishes or do you want some gloss finishes?  Pressure is very important for a good gloss finish.  These days you can get a decent tank type compressor for less than many kits. I still recommend a seperate outboard regulator and filter.    Leave the compressor and tank system at a high pressure, regulate pressure at airbrush with the add-on regulator.  I bought the "pancake" tank compressor I am now using for fifty bucks. Noisy as all getout, but I sure get good results.

I used to use an air compressor in garage, with piping into basement shop.  Worked fine in summer, but here in Minnesota the winter temp gets cold enough that compressor in garage will not start!  So, bought the little pancake portable compressor and wear the big old style headphones as ear protection :-)

Hercmech

 

Search Wally here and read a bout the death of an airbrush.

This is the thread in which he speaks! /forums/p/134463/1378884.aspx#1378884

You'll also see what I got as a replacement from Harbor Freight. The combo (A/B & compressor) where only about $100, and WELL worth it!!!. Pretty dang good. The Testors A/B will still be good though for clear coats and large areas. It's only slightly better than a rattlecan, cuz you can mix your own colors. The spray is a little better too.

Yep.  Me too.  Had problems with it.  Kept the paint.  Dumped the "brush" and propellant.  Got a compressor and airbrush.  The "real" airbrush and compressor have been easier to use than the Testor's kit.

I did the same thing many years ago Mustang8376. I was building mostly 1/72 aircraft at the time, I found it quite useful for all-over colours, and just did some careful masking when I got into multiple colours. It served me quite well until I bought a "real" airbrush a few years ago. As I was "painting small", I didn't find I was going through the air cans too fast. It's an easy way to start out.

I actually still have the Testors brush & use it for laying down future or other clear coats.

That will be the one.  I just got back into model building with an ever increasing number of models to build.  Thanks for the information on a double action set up.  Now to find a place in the hosue to do everything. :)

You don't say but I would assume that you got the kit that has a jar under it. You will find out two things, first you will go through the air pretty quick and they are fairly expensive over time, and second you will find that you have essential bought a refillable spraycan.

Nothing wrong with it and you can turn out some nice work if you get good at it, but it will not do the same thing a good double action AB will achieve.

Search Wally here and read a bout the death of an airbrush.