Simon

Hi,

Just getting back into some model kit building used to do some a long time ago when I was at school but never had or used an airbrush. My last job about 5 yrs ago was spraying aircraft parts so I know how to use a spray gun etc but that is probably a bit different to using an airbrush ? Anyway whats a good quality airbrush to start with ? Another thing is it ok to use Revell Acrylic paint with a airbrush, if it is what should I thing it down with and what sort of mix ratio ?

Thanks

Simon.

StanG

I'm sure Revell acrylic will be fine. Before you know it, you'll end up with so many different brands, Tamiya, Xtracrylics, Vallejo, Gunze...
You do not need beginners airbrush. I have got the Badger 150, double action. This is my first airbrush, I have had it not long and I'm glad that I did not decide to buy single action. I thought that single action would be good choice for a beginner, but it is really not that difficult to use double action. Push down for air, back for paint.
I paid peanuts for the airbrush and the compressor so I had no choice. But if I was going to buy one, I'd go for the Harder & Steenbeck - Evolution: Everythingairbrush Harder & Steenbeck Airbrush Kits
Thinning, hmm. I try to go 60-70 paint and 30-40 thinner. To be honest I don't measure it so it is different all the time but I never have a problem.
I use some old CD covers for testing, it's plastic and you'll see what it's going to look like.

Simon

Hi, Thanks StanG

I was looking at the Revell Master Class kit, have no idea what it's like and there was one I saw at a local Hobbycraft which was £££'s but came with the compressor can't remeber the make though.

Simon.

StanG

Check whether you can get spare parts before you buy. Makes such as Badger, Harder & S will be quite common, not sure about Revell. (ask yourself, if you drop it and you need a new head and needle, can you have it delivered within a few days, can you get it at all?) If you think Revell is for you, go for it. I'd go for H&S because I see Phill on his website is using it. He does it for living and probably went through a few of them. He recommends the H&S airbrush. see his site: Promodellers.com - Promodeller Home
Your choice mate, but go for the double action if you can afford it.

Kenj

Simon,
I have said it before and only too happy to repeat it,

I bought my first proper airbrush more than 40 years ago, still use it,
a Badger 200, have bought more of the same [?] since.
Earlier on this year I bought a Badger 150 my first double action, 'not sure its better'

Bonus points
I can still get spares for all of them. (even over here)

Simon

Hi thanks for the replies,

Been looking on everything airbrush, didn't relise there was so much choose ! The Badger 150 looks quite good but so does the 200 set ?

Whats best gravity or suction ?

Simon.

Kenj

I use a top loader for the finer work not quite so drippy, if you could call it that; exagerated enormously of course (but as a learner)

pretty much everything can be done with suction [?] (its a family show)

I have seen a car touched up, he virtually resprayed the damn thing

I have 'done from 'n' guage trains up to the workshop lathe, [too heavy to move and only needed to cover close by, needs must and all that.

thought of a retailer including parts

Airbrushing - Shesto - Suppliers of Specialist Tools...Worldwide

Terrance

Hi Guys
Sorry to barge in. Both airbrushes 200 and 150 are fine I've got both (suction) and no hassles. I used compresssed air cans till I saw a 2nd hand compressor in a pawn shop. About 20 years ago. no oil changes and still going strong. The paint I mix to a milk consistancy.

Artworks2

I'm into Testors/Pache/ Badger my best is a SHARP gravity feed originally used for pinstriping. The thing about many airbrushes is an inability to change out the fluid needle and cap for different spray patterns (ie) economy. I will always flood check any of my brushes prior to painting to get the preasure correct and this also shows a sort of preview to the finish you'll achieve. Since I use water based arcylics correct preasure at the tip is a must. Any airbrush does a fine job. Many guys get discouraged when it comes down to cleaning their brush. Finally one needs to remember moisture is offensive to the painter especially if one doesn't have a filter in line from the compressor. These items come in time as birthday gifts ect so keep that in mind when the better half asks "what you want for Christmas" Best to you all through the holidays. Alph