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Ok, I'm ready to take the plunge. I have an automotive-grade compressor that I'll be ordering a regulator for so I can use that. I've never used an airbrush before, ever. I'm mainly looking to use it for base coats, with the odd detail here and there. For those of you that have been doing airbrushing for awhile already, any recommendations as to what I should get as a beginner? I can do internet searches on my own if I can just be steered in the correct direction.

Edit: It seems I'll be wanting a siphon feed/bottom feed brush. Is that the way to go?

Other questions
Coming out of the regulator, what adapter should I be trying to get? From there, should I be attaching an airbrush style hose with the 1/8" connection, or another heavy duty hose? I'm thinking I need a 1/4" adapter coming out, then attach a 1/4" to 1/8" hose that then connects to the airbrush, but I'm not 100% certain. Any guidance here would be appreciated as well.

I picked up a Badger 150 double action airbrush as my first airbrush. Its both top loading ann has an option for a screw on pot, best of both worlds.

Sure it's a 150?

The versatility of the Model 150 dual action, internal mix, siphon (bottom) feed airbrush allows for a broad range of applications, making it the "classic" airbrush in the Badger line. The Model 150 accepts a ¼ oz. color cup for small volume painting needs, or three larger size paint jars (¾ oz., 2 oz., & 3 oz.) can be used for bigger jobs. The Model 150 sprays properly reduced acrylics, acrylic enamels and lacquers, gouaches, fabric colors, inks, dyes, watercolors, all of Badger airbrush ready paints. The Model 150 is used by everyone from artists to taxidermists and auto customizers to furniture refinishers.

Perhaps check out this article on airbrushing: http://www.dakkadakka.com/wiki/en/Dakka_Modeling_FAQ:_Airbrushing

Oh wow, didn't know there was an article...I even did a search and read the thread about the citadel gun. Thanks Redbeard, off to read!

If I've got an airhammer compressor and I plumb the line right, will it work on an airbrush?


-Scott

From the research I've been doing, yes, any compressor will work as long as you have a regulator to lower the PSI. A moisture trap is also a REALLY good idea as well.

I read the article, though it doesn't really suggest any airbrushes. Anyone else have any suggestions? Should I steer clear of the brushes that are typically less than $30?

And yes I'm sure it is a 150.

It has a little metal cup/pot that can be used (I never have) or a little paint pot that goes onto the bottom.

My guess is that an airbrush listed for list than $30 will be a single action. Badger/Paasche/Aztek all make pretty decent airbrushes - about $100 gets you a dual action "kit". If you're taking the plunge, my suggestion is that you get a dual action; far better control as to air flow and paint volume. With proper care and maintenance they last a LOOOONG time, hence the investment will pay out in the long run.

AJC

Here, Here!

I use a badger 150. I really like it. I can't tell you how it compares to others, though, as I made the initial investment in a dual-action, and haven't used any other.

I know it's easier to clean and re-assemble than the one my friend got, but I don't know what make his is.