Different kind of airbrush

Hey all,

Okay, I was just shopping at the local Wal-Mart with my nephew and he was picking out his birthday gift. He's into model airplanes, cars, etc. and wanted an airbrush. I wasn't sure what he meant so he showed. They had an airbrush kit that looks like a basic single-action brush that uses "airbrush propellant." It was $30 with a bottle of propellant. Any reason why that wouldn't work for a learning taxidermist to use to finish deer mounts? I'm assuming it uses those little jars of Testors model paint and I believe you thin them with "thinner" like min. spirits and whatever. Would that do anything negative to a mount? I believe most paints are water-based for mounts correct?

Thansk agan.

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airbrush

Hi mikey! No real reason that brush with the propellant shoud'nt work ok for deer mount finishing. The main thing with airbrush painting is to become familiar with you instrument and learn to keep it clean. One thing about the bottled propellant is can you control the air pressure? I would recommend you do some practise painting before applying paints on any mount. Become familiar with spray patterns on a piece of large paper or cardboard. I use laquer paints for all my taxidermy purposes, many use water-base. I dont know of any paint type that would damage a mount, just dont mix the two i mentioned. p.s most airbrushes require 30 psi or higher to function properly.

Its an Aztec

I have one, they come with an attachment for your compressor. they are good brushes. easy to maintain and pain well.

Thanks a bunch

Hey guys,

Thanks for the info. That's kind of good to hear that the brush will work. I'm just starting and I really don't have the need yet for a major setup. That will come in time I hope. I think I'll pick up one of them and do some practicing.

Another question. I have a small pancake-style air compressor that I use to run brad nailers, etc. It's a 3HP and, I believe, a 2-gallon tank. It's that something you can use with something as delicate as an airbrush or is a special compressor needed?

Thanks again.

Yes

You will need to get a pressure regulator to control pressure to the brush. Play with the pressure until you find what works for you around 20- to 40 lbs. You should be able to pick one up at an auto parts store, taxidermy suppliers or a business that supplies hose products.