I looking to buy my (almost) first airbrush.
I've been out of the hobby for about 20 years but I'm back in a big way. I used to own an airbrush. I don't even remember what type. It's been so long since I used one I'll have to learn everything again.
I'm looking at the Paasche H set. It's single action but for now that might be best for me.
Is this a good set? I don't mind spending more for something better in need be but I also want to make every dollar count.
Any advice before I pull the trigger, so to speak.

In all honesty, if you anticipate using it to any significant degree I would strongly recommend a double action brush. It's still pretty easy to use but a heck of a lot more useful, if you know what I mean. I have to admit, I am utterly sold on the Badger Patriot for both a first time user airbrush as well as a solid workhorse airbrush. It's easy to strip and clean (which is no small thing), robustly put together, and allows you to adjust the trigger sensitivity which is a huge help when you're getting the feel of it. Honestly, I have several more expensive airbrushes and I rarely break them out anymore.

https://armorama.kitmaker.net/review/8008

Matt

Robert, I don't envy you with decision making on airbrushes...some tough choices out there.

I'd have a good look at the Badger Krome, a bit more pricy than the Paasche H (well, maybe double?) but a good solid brush to start with and develop into. I just started working with the Krome and am very impressed with ease of use and quality of finish. Much more durable and not so picky as my more expensive brushes too! A few reviews on site can be found here:

Badger

Both Paasche and Badger are great companies to deal with in case there are problems and/or questions after purchase. With excellent customer service I wouldn't hesitate to purchase from either. Plus, replacement parts are inexpensive and easy to get.


****edit**** Matt's a bit quicker typing then me The Patriot is another good choice at a lower price, although I still think the Krome is better both for a beginner and to grow into, but costs more. Told ya....tough choices!

Thanks guys.
I don't remember the brand or model but I do know my old one was a double action so I might go the way. There's so much more out there now than I remember. It's like starting over. Which is kind of nice.
The old skills at bench are coming back real so maybe the will at the paint booth too.
Thanks for the advice and the links.

Any suggestions on a compressor?

Welcome back to the hobby.

I've been using a single action Paasche 1H airbrush for more then 40 years (bought my 2nd gun as the 1st one just wore out), and never had an issue with it. Since it's an external mix type, cleaning is a snap as there are only three parts to be cleaned.

The H series comes with a 1,3, & 5 series needle, cone, and tip. The only one I've ever use is the #3. The 1 is for watercolors and inks, and the #5 set puts out way too much paint unless you're doing a 1/350 scale ship. It's almost like spraying with a rattle can.

I keep on hearing that with a double action guns you can just use air to dry paint if you applied too much. You can easily do this with a single action gun just by turning the paint flow off. Honestly, I almost never need to do this. And as long as the paint isn't running, acrylic paints dry so quickly, it's not an issue. And if it's running, air won't solve that problem.

I can draw a fine line for camo paint schemes without over spray, as that's a function paint, thinning, air pressure, and distance to the model surface, not the type of gun it is.

You still need a quality air compressor with a good regulator valve, moisture trap, and a storage tank.

Joel

Well I did it. I just ordered the following.
Badger 105 Patriot Airbrush
Badger TC910 Aspire Pro Compressor
10 feet of braided air hose
as well as some lube, cleaner brushes and a quick disconnect.
Did I mess up or is that a good setup?

I haven't used a "hobby" compressor yet, although that looks like a real nice one. And again, if there are any problems in the future Badger is a top company concerning customer service.

Did the Patriot come with a single needle/nozzle or a dual set-up?

The quick disconnect makes things a real pleasure...good choice

Robert, Congratulations on your new airbrush and compressor. Both will last your for years.

Joel

It comes with a single needle/nozzle (.75 millimeter)

Well the compressor, hose and airbrush arrived today. They sent me an extra nozzle for ordering the whole setup.

It was made for a man though. No instructions with the compressor.
It was easy to figure out though.

Now I just need to build my spray booth and get in some practice.

Thanks for all the advice and help.

Have fun with it! One thing, did it come with a moisture trap? If not, you'll want one before too long. . .

Matt

Yes it does.

It's a Badger TC910 Aspire Pro Compressor.

So far the only complaint is that with the box/cover on it controls are hard get to. I've taken off the cover and just have it setting on top off it lose.

I just came in from the work shop. I threw together a decent spray booth and practiced a little. I even painted the odd few peices from the scraps box.
At 15psi and full open I got great coverage.
After I was done I clean the airbrush. I even stripped it down when I was done. It was much easier than thought it would be.

Just should be fun.