Aztek 4709 rant

[keilau]

rrmmodeler:

I used an Aztek for a many years…it was my first airbrush as well. I thought I got good results with it but it was very inconsistent and troublesome to use. I got to where I would strip down the tips to make sure they were completely clean before I would use it again. I got really good at taking those things apart and putting them back together. I normally used enamels with it but made the switch to acrylics while I had this brush. Then one day it just stop working so instead of sending it in for a free replacement…back when they had the life time guarantee…I brought a Iwata HP-CS and boy what a difference! Easier to use…more consistent… smoother coats of paints…and I find it easier to take care of than the old Aztek. When I look back at the old builds where I used the Aztek you can see the difference.

I don’t have any experience with the Badger models but definitly recommend the Iwata series.

This is the same route that I took. …The only drawback with it that I have found concerns the price for rplacement parts. After seeing that a replacement nozzle runs about $24.00 at the local Hobby Lobby, I am VERY careful when cleaning it.

That $24 is before the 40% off coupon. They have one this week if you want a backup nozzle.

I got a set of 0.5 mm nozzle/needel/cap set from Hobby Lobby. It cost less than $20 total. I found the Iwata parts is cheaper to me than most other brands because I can get the Iwata Eclipse parts locally at HL. The saving from the 40% coupon and no shipping make the difference.

[jschlechty]

Keilau,

THanks for the idea! So far, I’ve been very careful when cleaning and handling my AB, but if and when the time comes to replace any of the parts, you can bet I’ll use that 40% off coupon! Of course, the way my luck runs, when I bend the needle or something, they won’t print any coupons for acouple of months or so…

Have you had to replace any parts on your IWATA yet? Do they just naturally wear out over time? If so, maybe I should start buying those parts in advance while I have access to the coupons.

[keilau]

Keilau,

THanks for the idea! So far, I’ve been very careful when cleaning and handling my AB, but if and when the time comes to replace any of the parts, you can bet I’ll use that 40% off coupon! Of course, the way my luck runs, when I bend the needle or something, they won’t print any coupons for acouple of months or so…

Have you had to replace any parts on your IWATA yet? Do they just naturally wear out over time? If so, maybe I should start buying those parts in advance while I have access to the coupons.

I have had the HP-CS less than 2 years and did not use it enough to wear anything out yet. Please, see my post on how I do the cleaning of the CS. If you feel (slightly bend) the Iwata needle, you will find it more springy than many others.

From other posts at the ARC and Airbrushtech forums, the Iwata nozzle and needle are less prone to damage than some other brands despite the very slender needle design. The HL coupon appears every other week most of the time, so I am not too concerned about it. The Iwata airbrush does not need extra care. But all airbrushes are delicate instruments that should be treated with respect. You will do fine.

I got the Eclipse 0.5 mm nozzle set for painting larger scale models. It still has more detailing than many other nozzle of similar size. It can serve as the backup if an accidental damage should happen.