Hi,
im studying taxidermy, ive mounted a couple of fish without any big problems. im to the point where i need to make a decision on what airbrush and compressor to buy. i might only use it 1-4 times a month.
any input is appreciated.
Return to Beginners Taxidermy Category Menu
Laquer go expensive
water base maybe cheaper
are depending on your air brush
for fine detail work or what?Or just shading the fish
well, ive never used an airbrush. im starting from scratch.
can you recomend a name brand. ill be doing shading and fine work.
I think you would be pleased with paasche.
I use Paasche for my fish and critters. I'm more than pleased with the reliability and performance.
good luck
There is a lot of information in the archives on airbrushes. Click on the orange button and fill in the blank. For a detail airbrush Iwata beats the others hands down, nothing else even comes close.
Get a Dual-Action style airbrush...controls both air flow and spray pattern with adjustable one finger control.
Forget the single action style which requires setting and resetting and testing on paper to make sure paint pattern is correct before spraying on projects.
The Pauche VL-3s Kit has everything you need...'S' standing for Swivel-control of hose so it doesn't get tangled around your wrist while using it.
www.dixieart.con...sells all Airbrushes, kits, supplies, videos, books, etc a big discount prices at big dollar savings...forget getting it from a local hobby shop store. Shipping is free with minimum $45.00 orders.
The Waterbase Paints from WASCO are preferable to Lacquer Types which require adequate ventalation because of the toxic dangerous explosive fumes that can build up in an enclosed room.
Check your local Pawn Shop for used Air Compressors cheap. Contractors sometimes pawn and never retrieve them. I bought a like-new 5-hp 5-gal tank model for $95.00. You'll also need a pressure regulator and inline Air Trap to remove water buoldup not getting into your line and airbrush.
Two 50-foot airline hoses with snapon fittings so the compressor can be in another room or basement while you work to avoid the excessive noise indoors,
Also go to www.HarborFreight.com...get their catalog...they sell all this equipment cheap for your airbrush. They may also have a local store near you...get on their mailing list for E-mail sale specials...and request their catalog...You'll be glad you did.
A airbrush Holder is convenient to attach to your bench or table instead of laying it down all the time between useage.
Get a video on airbrushing and use it to practice beforehand. Good luck on your new venture.
~ ETCC
I totally agree with Old Fart. IWATA is the hands down the best. You don't have to pay an arm & leg either. The eclipse series (around $80.00) are very good brushes. As far as compressors go, I would but a smaller one from wal mart or the like. I have had a 1hp with about a 5 gallon thank that worked great for many years. Make sure you get a inline moisture trap as well. Email me if you have any specific questions and I will help you if I can. I have 2 iwatas, 2 omnis, and 1 pasche. Also type "airbrushing for dummies" in the search and read it, it will help as well.
Paul B
Thanx for all the great feedback. ill check out the archives and website.
I would say get an Iwata or an Aztek. Both of these air brushes will work just fine. As far as an air compressor goes? Look on Ebay. You can pick up some really good deals. Sometimes compressor and air brushes together. I picked up another Aztek and a compressor for $100 and both work fine. I had troubles with the air brush, but since it has a LIFETIME GUARANTEE I sent it back to the company and they repaired it for FREE. Good Luck. Dan