Airbrush recommendations needed.

[project510]

Current Airbrush:

Iwata Revolution CR - Purchased in 2006
Exp level - Beginner

So this happened just now.. Which has stopped current progress.



So I like this airbrush. But, its the only one I have ever used so I have nothing else to compare it to. The replacement nozzle is $30 but it got me thinking if there are any advancements or changes in airbrushes since 2006 which was when I bought this one.
I will say, I don't really like cleaning this tiny nozzle every time I use it. But if that's the norm for every airbrush then so be it. Also, no matter how much cleaner I run through the brush, there is ALWAYS paint in the nozzle and paint on the needle.

I primarily spray 1/20 and 1/24 scale model cars and their associated parts. I don't need it for anything besides that. I use it with a TC910 Aspire Pro Compressor. I have no idea where to go with price range, as I bought this so long ago but I would say under $250?

Ill probably order the parts for this but if there is something better and more efficient when it comes to cleaning, Id be willing to add a 2nd.

[chromdome35]

Have have the Badger 105 and 150 airbrushes, I like them both; however, my favorite is my Grex Tritium.TS3



I have used this Grex for a year, and I like it. I get a lot of hand fatigue when using the Badgers with their top-mounted triggers; the pistol trigger of the Grex alleviates that problem for me.

For use as a fine detail brush, I have been considering purchasing a Procon Boy MR. Airbrush Custom 0.18MM GSI Creos PS-771 Supreme Detail based on a lot of really positive reviews.


One really nice thing about the Badger 105, you don't need any tools to break it down for cleaning. The Grex requires a small wrench to remove the nozzle.

[stikpusher]

I’ve got a Badger 105 Patriot that I’ve been using for several years now. Cleaning it is easy peasy, and I love the way that it works.

[chromdome35]

Mar 16, 2024 20:54:33 GMT -5 stikpusher said:

I’ve got a Badger 105 Patriot that I’ve been using for several years now. Cleaning it is easy peasy, and I love the way that it works.

I love my Badger 105, if it wasn't for the hand fatigue I get using it, I probably would never have bought another airbursh.

[stikpusher]

Brian, do you really prefer the Grex? So Cal AMPS had one loaned to us by Brookhurst Hobbies about 12-14 years ago, so we took turns among the club members borrowing it for a month and then passing it on to somebody else at the next meeting. I didn’t care for the pistol style trigger of the Grex, and that was pretty common among the chapter members. A few guys really liked it, but the majority did not. I suppose that it’s a muscle memory thing…. 🤔

[chromdome35]

When I first started using it, I had some issues with paint splat but those went away after I became more used to working with it. It has been the only airbrush I've used for the last year. I purchased the .2mm and the .5mm needle sets for it and both work great for me.

The hand fatigue I experience with top-trigger airbrushes prevents me from wanting to use them for any length of time. I am not the Bob Ross of airbrushing by any means, and I'm certainly not a fine detail master with any airbrush. But yeah, I do like the Grex.

[project510]

Mar 16, 2024 20:54:33 GMT -5 stikpusher said:

I’ve got a Badger 105 Patriot that I’ve been using for several years now. Cleaning it is easy peasy, and I love the way that it works.

I was looking at this. I like the needle removal design. Looks easy to clean.

Mar 16, 2024 20:59:17 GMT -5 chromdome35 said:

Mar 16, 2024 20:54:33 GMT -5 stikpusher said:

I’ve got a Badger 105 Patriot that I’ve been using for several years now. Cleaning it is easy peasy, and I love the way that it works.

I love my Badger 105, if it wasn't for the hand fatigue I get using it, I probably would never have bought another airbursh.

That Triger gun would be awesome if I was paint large scale stuff. Very interesting. I have not experienced any fatigue yet, so well see. 

Thank you both for your input.

[chromdome35]

That Triger gun would be awesome if I was paint large scale stuff. Very interesting. I have not experienced any fatigue yet, so well see.

I mainly paint 1:35 armor with mine. Even though it's a trigger gun, it has a .3mm needle, so it is right in line with all the other mainstream airbrushes used in scale modeling.

[project510]

Mar 16, 2024 22:00:23 GMT -5 chromdome35 said:

That Triger gun would be awesome if I was paint large scale stuff. Very interesting. I have not experienced any fatigue yet, so well see.

I mainly paint 1:35 armor with mine. Even though it's a trigger gun, it has a .3mm needle, so it is right in line with all the other mainstream airbrushes used in scale modeling.

Interesting. Ill watch some videos and take a better look.

[Tobi]

Wide field, the possibilities are probably endless.
In terms of easiness to clean, this type was the most convenient I have used over the years (I have seven or eight different airbrush pistols in my inventory). Revell is selling these under their own branding. There are most likely others similar to it out there. It serves both for large surfaces and smaller patches. Pretty much versatile and rather affordable.

airbrush-geckler.de/textil-leder-art/Ersatzteile-Airbrushes/ersatzteile-thayer-chandler-vega-omni-revell/

[eaglecash867]

Can't go wrong with a Paasche H.  They're well under $250.00 (under $100.00), replacement parts are cheap, and they're very reliable.  Since it's an external-mix, siphon-feed airbrush, the parts that touch paint are all easily removed with a 5/64" allen wrench and your fingers.  To clean mine, I just drop those parts into an old pickle relish jar that I have some MEK in.  I then put that jar in the ultrasonic cleaner I have, which is then filled with water to transmit the sound waves into the jar, and let that run for about 30 minutes.  Then I rinse the parts under hot water.  Gives it a thorough cleaning every time, without any flushing or any other work.  It's single action, so I just use a packet of Post-It Notes and spray on that to get the desired pattern width and volume, and go to work.  I build mostly military aircraft from the Cold War, some WWII stuff, some sci-fi/space stuff, and some cars.  It has been the only airbrush I have needed for 38 years...in fact, I still use exactly the same one I bought 38 years ago when I was 15.

[TOWGunner]

Arrived yesterday. Ordered from AliExpress for $35.95. Arrived in two weeks. I know, sounds like a recipe for disaster, doesn’t it?



The NEOECO airbrush. Comes with .2, .3, and .5 needle/nozzles, built in MAC valve and cut-away handle, 3 color cups, moisture trap, cleaning kit, and braided air hose. I think I paid $35.95 for one Iwata braided air hose. I know what you’re thinking. So, how good [or bad] can this airbrush be? Well, I just put it through some paces, and I am happy to tell you that this is not some POS cake decorating or makeup airbrush. The NEOECO is astonishingly well engineered and manufactured to a very high quality. The tolerances are very tight and on first inspection it compares very favorably to my Iwatas. The nozzle is built into a large cap that can be removed without tools, so changing needle/nozzle sizes takes about 30 seconds. Pencil lines to base coat coverage can be easily achieved. The airbrush has a nice heft and a beautiful balance. The MAC valve and pre-set handle let you fine tune your PSI and paint flow right at the airbrush for flawless shooting. I am definitely impressed with the NEOECO airbrush and will be using it often in the near future. Let’s see if it stands the test of time like the Iwatas.
Also comes in chrome and black if you don’t like the red.

[406 Silverado]

Really sorry to hear of that for ya James. WOW!! As for suggestions.....


Some of you guys are probably gonna laugh at me but I have one mainstay airbrush that I use in automotive modeling for my car bodies.....the Badger 350. This thing has NEVER let me down.




Now....before you think.."Whaaaaaaaaaaaaat??!!" Let me say IMO that when fitted with the medium tip, this thing is the BOMB for area coverage. Perfect results EVERY time on any of my auto builds. I simply start off with a mist coat and then open it up for the wet coat. 

Every one of these finishes here following were achieved with this AB. I do have other airbrushes such as a Badger 200 and a Badger Renegade for painting aircraft and smaller areas but the 350 is my go-to for automotive body area coverage.....every time. Just my   and hope it helps.

  

  

[stikpusher]

Joe, I won’t laugh at a Badger 350. I had one as my first real airbrush and used it for many many years (~20+) until it was literally falling apart… with medium and fine tips, there are few jobs that it will not handle well.

[kyledehart5]

My 2 cents. The possibilities are endless as stated. I have a GSI Procon Boy PS 289 that I absolutely love. It’s easy to clean and atomizes well. But I paint commercially for a living. Nothing fancy, just roads and parking lots and things on the ground. and my muscle memory leans toward pistol grip style guns. So I picked up the Gaahleri GHAD 68. It’s amazing. It immediately became my work horse. I liked it so much I also went out and bought its traditional top trigger sibling which is the GHAD 39. 8 channel air nozzles for fantastic atomization. Self centering nozzle is a snap to remove and requires zero tools at all. Cleanup is a breeze. I generally keep the 0.5 needle in both as my subjects are on the larger side like yourself. Both available on Amazon for really great prices. $70 for the pistol trigger and an unbelievable $30ish for the traditional style. At that price we should all. Go out and buy another one. They paint so nicely. 

[chromdome35]

Mar 17, 2024 11:32:00 GMT -5 kyledehart5 said:

My 2 cents. The possibilities are endless as stated. I have a GSI Procon Boy PS 289 that I absolutely love. It’s easy to clean and atomizes well. But I paint commercially for a living. Nothing fancy, just roads and parking lots and things on the ground. and my muscle memory leans toward pistol grip style guns. So I picked up the Gaahleri GHAD 68. It’s amazing. It immediately became my work horse. I liked it so much I also went out and bought its traditional top trigger sibling which is the GHAD 39. 8 channel air nozzles for fantastic atomization. Self centering nozzle is a snap to remove and requires zero tools at all. Cleanup is a breeze. I generally keep the 0.5 needle in both as my subjects are on the larger side like yourself. Both available on Amazon for really great prices. $70 for the pistol trigger and an unbelievable $30ish for the traditional style. At that price we should all. Go out and buy another one. They paint so nicely. 

This brand has really received a lot of positive press and reviews lately.

[kyledehart5]

Mar 17, 2024 11:45:15 GMT -5 chromdome35 said:

Mar 17, 2024 11:32:00 GMT -5 kyledehart5 said:

My 2 cents. The possibilities are endless as stated. I have a GSI Procon Boy PS 289 that I absolutely love. It’s easy to clean and atomizes well. But I paint commercially for a living. Nothing fancy, just roads and parking lots and things on the ground. and my muscle memory leans toward pistol grip style guns. So I picked up the Gaahleri GHAD 68. It’s amazing. It immediately became my work horse. I liked it so much I also went out and bought its traditional top trigger sibling which is the GHAD 39. 8 channel air nozzles for fantastic atomization. Self centering nozzle is a snap to remove and requires zero tools at all. Cleanup is a breeze. I generally keep the 0.5 needle in both as my subjects are on the larger side like yourself. Both available on Amazon for really great prices. $70 for the pistol trigger and an unbelievable $30ish for the traditional style. At that price we should all. Go out and buy another one. They paint so nicely. 

This brand has really received a lot of positive press and reviews lately.

For the price I can’t imagine there’s anything better out there. Granted my top level airbrush is still not an expensive one but these atomize and spray fantastically and are easy to clean. That’s all I need so I am more than happy with them. Gaahleri also has good customer service and stands by the product at least so far. 

[project510]

This is all really great info guys. Thank you so much.

I had no idea so many of you used the pistol grip style machines. Its very tempting. Joe, you are more proof that its not always the machine, but its user. I think I may go with the 350. I found replacement parts for my Iwata which I can keep for more detail work if the 350 cant handle it. Plus, the price of the 350 makes it worth a try even if I don't like it.

I have never used a external mix siphon brush before so I will have to look into that and see if it requires any changes to technique or the process. If I don't like it. I may give the pistol grip style a try as suggested by Kyle and Brian.

[kyledehart5]

I think that you’ll be happy with the 350. I’ve talked to a couple people like Joe who are really happy with the medium tip. The pistol grip isn’t for everyone but it’s what I’m used to from work so it’s what I’m comfortable with in our hobby too. Look forward to seeing the great paint jobs you’re going to crank out.

[keavdog]

I'll second the Paasche H if you are good with a single action AB. I do 99% of my painting with it.

[stikpusher]

Mar 17, 2024 16:50:33 GMT -5 kyledehart5 said:

I think that you’ll be happy with the 350. I’ve talked to a couple people like Joe who are really happy with the medium tip. The pistol grip isn’t for everyone but it’s what I’m used to from work so it’s what I’m comfortable with in our hobby too. Look forward to seeing the great paint jobs you’re going to crank out.

I did this with my old 350 near the end of its' working days...


The 350 is a mighty fine airbrush once you learn it.

[kyledehart5]

Mar 17, 2024 18:05:40 GMT -5 stikpusher said:

Mar 17, 2024 16:50:33 GMT -5 kyledehart5 said:

I think that you’ll be happy with the 350. I’ve talked to a couple people like Joe who are really happy with the medium tip. The pistol grip isn’t for everyone but it’s what I’m used to from work so it’s what I’m comfortable with in our hobby too. Look forward to seeing the great paint jobs you’re going to crank out.

I did this with my old 350 near the end of its' working days...


The 350 is a mighty fine airbrush once you learn it.

That looks awesome Carlos!!

[406 Silverado]

Mar 17, 2024 18:05:40 GMT -5 stikpusher said:

Mar 17, 2024 16:50:33 GMT -5 kyledehart5 said:

I think that you’ll be happy with the 350. I’ve talked to a couple people like Joe who are really happy with the medium tip. The pistol grip isn’t for everyone but it’s what I’m used to from work so it’s what I’m comfortable with in our hobby too. Look forward to seeing the great paint jobs you’re going to crank out.

I did this with my old 350 near the end of its' working days...


The 350 is a mighty fine airbrush once you learn it.

WOW!!!! 

[garybrantley]

I bought a Paasche Model H back around 1988, I believe, and painted almost every model that I've built with it.   It is a classic design, basically unchanged since its debut in the 1930s.   And it is a true workhorse too, capable of beautiful work.  But it does have its limitations.   I bought a SOTAR several years ago and have only tried it out once.   I have nerve damage in both hands, and it was very difficult for me to manipulate that double-action trigger with numb fingers although it is an amazing piece of kit.     But, last year, I bought a Gaahleri airbrush that I've really enjoyed.   I think it's the same one that Kyle posted above; here's a pic of it:




It is so easy to use and is capable of some really fine lines and fine work.  I was amazed that I could spray paint with as little as 8 psi.   That really helps and the pistol-grip trigger is just so much easier for my hands.    I'd say they are a good bargain and a great airbrush. 👍

[TJ]

I too recently bought the Gaaleri GAD-39. I'm a top trigger AB user. I had a Iwata NEO for years. It finally started causing me issues, I think seals are going. The 39 is a great AB, easy to clean and sprays really well. And you can't beat the price.

[kyledehart5]

Mar 18, 2024 9:24:52 GMT -5 garybrantley said:

I bought a Paasche Model H back around 1988, I believe, and painted almost every model that I've built with it.   It is a classic design, basically unchanged since its debut in the 1930s.   And it is a true workhorse too, capable of beautiful work.  But it does have its limitations.   I bought a SOTAR several years ago and have only tried it out once.   I have nerve damage in both hands, and it was very difficult for me to manipulate that double-action trigger with numb fingers although it is an amazing piece of kit.     But, last year, I bought a Gaahleri airbrush that I've really enjoyed.   I think it's the same one that Kyle posted above; here's a pic of it:




It is so easy to use and is capable of some really fine lines and fine work.  I was amazed that I could spray paint with as little as 8 psi.   That really helps and the pistol-grip trigger is just so much easier for my hands.    I'd say they are a good bargain and a great airbrush. 👍

This is indeed my workhorse Gary. I couldn’t be happier with it and the 39

[project510]

Plot twist: Dun Dun Dunnnnnn

I was googling all of the airbrushes mentioned by yall to this point and I came to the Paasche Model H. As soon as I saw it I recognized it. Where have I seen this before? Do I have one? Where the heck would it be if I did?
Only place to check were the boxes where my kits are stashed. Not there. Decided to take a pic of my stash to not waste the effort of removing everything. Oh hey look its the Z432. I started that kit like 15 years ago. I wonder how far I got. 
Open the box...

BAM



Almost certain its never been used. I see no signs of paint. Cup looks brand new. Seal on the nozzle is black and has no signs of dried paint. Unbelievable haha.

[stikpusher]

The modeling gods have smiled upon you with this discovery!

[kyledehart5]

Now that is a very cool discovery!!

[eaglecash867]

Nice find! 

Ironically, on Sunday, the valve stem seal in my 38 year old Paasche H finally gave up the ghost.  I bought another Paasche H for less than 50 bones from Amazon and it arrived on Tuesday.  In the interim, I went back to trying to use my Iwata Eclipse HP-CS.  It did fine, but there was just something off about the sheen of my Semi-Matt clearcoat that I shot with it onto the cockpit parts for my Fw190 project.  It looked FAR too glossy, so I stopped and waited for the new H to arrive.  Shot the same clearcoat through the new H on the same parts, and instantly saw the difference in sheen.  It was semi-matt, just like it was supposed to be.

Incidentally, also on Sunday, I went to Paasche's web-site and ordered a new valve stem/seal assembly.  Cost me 6 bucks to replace a 38 year old part, and their service was fantastic.