Badger 200

I have one I've had for about 12 years or so. It was the first airbrush I bought. One thing to be aware of with the 200: There is a Teflon washer between the head and body. Over time that washer will get flat and the airbrush will start to pulsate. To extend the life of the washer, always loosen the head when you put the airbrush up for the day. You can see it on this diagram: http://www.badgerairbrush.com/200sgparts.htm
it is part 50-055. I'd recommend that next time you are ordering stuff you grab a couple of spares.

You won't be dissapointed with the 200.

It was my first brush too, and I still use it for primer and varnish coats, as you can just set it up and go.

Best of luck

Karl

i understand it can do relatively thin lines too correct? i am using it mainly to do base coats and camo patterns but would like to do small touch ups for things like exhaust marks. also, i plan on using it to lighten panels (to show weathering). i was told this could do it all. please advise.

The 200 has different nozzles and needles. I think they normally come with the medium in them, I know mine did. To do find lines you may need to get the fine nozzle and needle.

Keep in mind that most of the ability of an airbrush comes from the painter not the brush itself. They take a LOT of practice to get good with, so since this is your first don't be too surprised if it won't do as well as you think it should at first. Be prepared to spend some time getting accustomed to it and learning how to use it. Fine lines don't happen right out of the box, they take some practice. One of these days I might even be able to do them well

Badger actually do a detail version of the 200 designed specifically for this type of work.

Having said that I've found that with a little practise you can perform fairly fine work using the 200.

Karl

QUOTE: Badger actually do a detail version of the 200 designed specifically for this type of work.

You're right, Karl, I forgot about that one. I've never used it but I remember seeing it listed in a catalog or something.

I have a 200NH, but haven't been too successful with fine lines, although I only have the medium head/needle. But for everything else, it's great!! Easy to use, clean up, good paint jobs.

QUOTE: Originally posted by transblu I have a 200NH, but haven't been too successful with fine lines, although I only have the medium head/needle. But for everything else, it's great!! Easy to use, clean up, good paint jobs.

Yeah, you need the fine needle / nozzle. The medium is just to big. I think the needle taper is about the same. I don't know what size it is in mm, but it will pass our types of paint fine.