I build mostly 1 / 24 -25 scale model emergency vehicles. This means large areas that need painting. I understand there are several devices out there, and would like to know about your experiences. I am considering a Grex TG series airbrush with their new "fan spray nozzle ". I have heard that Iwata makes a trigger style airbrush as well, but it’s twice the price. I have also seen that Sparmax makes a large coverage type trigger airbrush but question if it’s too much and question the quality? Any feedback appreciated! Thanks
Our local AMPS Chapter has a Grex (I dont recall which model) that was provided to us by a supportive LHS, which we pass around to the members for evaluation. I used it awhile back on one of my builds and was not overly impressed by it. I much prefer my standard traditional airbrushes. Most of the Chapter members seem to have the same opinion. I know of only one guy who prefers the trigger style over the top button style.
I use a Paasche Talon siphon feed brush with the fan cap, its like a perfect mini spray gun for painting model cars.
you can use the fan cap on the talon gravity feed brush too, but i went with the bottom feed so i can stick a large jar of paint on it so i dont run out during a paint job.
Second the Talon with the fan tip - I’ve had mine for five years with no troubles at all. Three needle sizes and four tips come with the full set, and all spray well with minimal cleanup hassles. Best of all, there are no internal washers in the body, so washing out with lacquer thinner doesn’t require breaking everything down every session, or stocking replacement washers.
My local Hobby Lobby recently began stocking the Iwata pistol-grip brushes. You might check there. 40% coupon would get you a pretty good deal. I can’t speak to performance, though.
I had an opportunity to test-drive the Grex brushes at a show not long ago. They are very appealing to me, given how much my fingers cramp while painting. So far out of my price range, though.
I’ve used a Grex TG with the pistol grip and trigger for the last couple of years and really like it. It’s more comfortable to me than a conventional double action brush.
I use my badger 200NH single action brush almost exclusively for large area coverage, namely because I suck at using it for fine detail, the spray pattern on that works just fine, it’s just a matter of holding it the right distance from the subject. (and keeping the brush clean[;)])