I`m thinking of buying an Iwata HP-BC airbrush this week. I`m currently using a Paasche Vl-1 set. I`m very serious about improving the quality of my work, I`m fairly new at it, but concerned about improving all the time. I`ve been told that I should get this airbrush. Is there a marked difference between these airbrushes, at the same skill level? where do I find one? I saw it in the Matt Thompson catalog, but is he the only one who sells them? Any response to these questions would be greatly appreciated. Thanks, J.C.
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They have the best prices on airbrushes that I have found. It'll save you a chunk of change.
I tried the Iwata HP-BC and couldn't get used to it. I do like my Vega 2000 though. Believe it or not, of all seven airbrushes I have, my favorite is a $19.95 Cummins tools airbrush! It has a screw-adjustable trigger that works great when painting fish. Good luck... Rick
Your Paasche VL-1 has a .55 needle, the Iwata will come with a .20 or a.30 needle. I have found that almost any paint that I use in the Iwata will need to be thinned and retarded. It is also difficult to spray metalics, pearls and shimmer paints through with the .20 needle. This is a fine detail airbrush so you will not need the cup(HP-BC). Water bassed paints are difficult to use as they dry in the needle and clog the brush, so you will probably have to use laquers for all your detail work. Mine is the HP-B and I can paint with only a couple drops of paint. Like Rick J I like my Vega 2000, for my heavy duty spraying. With a little practice you will be able to write your name with the Iwata just like writing with a ball point pen!
MEDEA CO., Inc., 13585 N.E. Whitaker Way, Portland OR 97230 503-253-7308. I am not sure how current this address or phone number is, it was on some spare needles that I ordered about 6-7 years ago. I suggest that you get one spare needle, I was down two weeks with out one. I would also suggest that you get a crown cap with the brush, that will allow you to get very close in with your painting without backing up air into your brush. Just a suggestion.
Thanks Rick, and Old Fart,for sharing your insight, your advice will be will be well taken. Thanks again J.C.
Try Dixeiart.com thay also have good prices and anything over $45 is free shipping.