As far as airbrushes go, you are better off getting a double action, gravity feed brush. You can start with a single action, they are cheap, but if you enjoy airbrushing and the level it takes your modeling to, you will quickly find yourself looking for a dual action, internal mix. I say, if your going to do it, and your reasonably serious that you will continue airbrushing, then go for a good quality Airbrush right off the bat.
If you are going for “high end” then choose:
- Gravity Fed / Internal Mix
- Dual Action
Personally, I have a Badger 100LG and an Aztek. Lot’s of folks here don’t like Azteks. (My Raiden & Me-109 where both done with my Aztek – you can check them out on my website) As far as cleaning them…I don’t see the big deal. The Aztek tips pull apart easily and clean up in a dunk of your favorite solvent. The cups come off too, for the same procedure. I just left them in Windex when I was done for the day and they where ready when I got back. For me, this was not an issue. (Even the Badger needs a “tip soaking” once in a while.) They are a little less “conventional” so I think folks are just not used to them. And, some folks have them breaking…but mine hasn’t broken yet. The one thing I have noticed is the Badger gives me a little more “control” as I found the trigger on the Aztek less precise, but that could just be me…Most AB are metal, so they “feel” like they have substance. The Azteks are made of some polymer material. I think the differences are mostly in people’s heads…but that’s what can make or break you: The Mindset.
It’s more important to learn the skill then it is to get the “best” airbrush. The “best” airbrush in the world won’t work without the skill of the user. Conversely, a user with great airbrushing skills can work wonders, even with a “marginal” airbrush.
So, some good brands to look at are (in no particular order)
- Badger (Thayer & Chandler)
- Aztek
- Omni
- Paasche
- Iwata