I'm just starting in taxidermy and want to buy an airbrush system. I need a general purpose one. I know It's probably a matter of opinion but I really could use some advice. I need the compressor also also. thanks Keith
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I like the Paasche VL-3 Airbrush. I have found then a little more
heavier duty than the Badger. They seem to take more abuse. Thayer & Chandler also makes a nice brush.
As far as compressors, unless you need a silent model, get one at sears or someplace like that. As long as it has a holding tank, a regulator and a moisture trap they are all about the same.
the larger tank you buy the less the compressor kick on when using it.
I would stay away from those little hobby (diaphram) compressors. Some of them do not have even constant pressure.
Chip
How much work are you going to do? WHat kind of work? Fish then get a 5 horse 30 gallon tank. As for airbrushes, I recommed the Pashe' VL you can get fine pencil tip spots and lines with it. Some recommed the Aztec, but I have had problems getting the 1/32 inch fine details I need. Even trying two different brushes. Back to the VL I use a number 3 tip and can highlight 2 pound trout scales with it just fine even at 60 psi air flow.
Hello Keith, I'm just starting out in taxidermy myself and quickly found a need for an air compressor and air brush.
What I did was went to Wally World (Walmart) and bought a mid-sized air compressor by Campbell & Hausfield. It has a 2.5 gallon tank and was only $89.97. I then went to Harbour Freight & Supply (hardware type store) and bought the Paasche VL double action aire brush for $49.97. It was the best price I could find on it.
Hope this helps.
I would recommend the Paache H single action airbrush, if you are new to taxidermy. They cost about $25.00 and they work very well. The double actions are great, but take a little getting used to and cost more. I have been doing taxidermy work for 15 years and I still will use mine.
I use a Paashe VL and an H. Got them both from Dixie Art Supply (very cheap and free shipping), I don't have the web site address handy, but you should be able to do a search and find that. I bought my compressor from Wal-Mart, I'm usually not a fan of buying tools at a place like that, but I found a Campbell-Hausfield compressor called the "Quiet Air" that is just a honey. Works great, is quiet, and I totally outfitted it with airtrap, etc, for about $100.00.
Keith,
try: http://www.dixieart.com/
They have the Paache VL Kit (airbrush, #1, #3, and #5 needles, tips
and aircaps, and air hose along with some other accessories) for
$54.00. And no shipping charges on domestic orders over $45.00. They
carry just about everything dealing with air brushing. Sears has some
pretty good sales on air compressors from 1-1/2hp/12 gallon up to
5and 6 hp/20-25 gallons. Just add a moisture trap to whatever you
get.
Glenn
Where do i get a moisture trap at and what is it's function?