Hello all,
I’m a new subscriber and am gearing up to begin modeling again hopefully soon. Have an Airbrush question. Have pretty much decided on buying an Iwata eclipse, as they seem to be highly rated on FSM forums. I could use some info on the different types (ie top cup CS, side mount SBS, or bottom mounted siphon type ). Any preferences or pro and con info would be greatly appreciated.
ronj
Get the gravity feed, you’ll be able to spray with lower pressure and have more control. My last airbrush was siphon feed and I can use about half the pressure I used to, and could go lower and still have good control if I wanted it. Gravity is the way to go. It’s not just a good idea, it’s the law.
madda
First of all, great to have you back in the game! For modelling I use and recomend the Iwata Revolution HP-CR (.5mm nozzle-gravity-feed double action). The CR model is wonderfully priced at only $59.00 and is capable of fine lines, as well as general spraying. Iwatas gravity feed airbrushes are indeed the way to go; faster set-up, less wasted paint (mix up what you need by the drop), faster/ easier clean-up and excellent paint flow. In my experiences with them and other airbrushes, the Iwata Eclipse and Revolution series has the finest atomization of model paint I have ever seen- right out of the box… I also use and recommend the Eclipse HP-CS (.35mm nozzle G/F double action). The HP-CS is particularly excellent for fine-lines and tight camo pattern out-lining. The best prices on the web for Iwatas are at www.dixieart.com. If you’d like to see a few pics of what I have been able to do with my Iwatas contact me via email.
I would also look into cheaper alternatives that are just as good in my opinion such as the Thayer & Chandler Omni series.
The Omni will spray just as well as an Iwata and the needles and tips are 1/3 the cost. [:D]
Another good thing about the Omni gravity feed models is that they have Teflon needle bearings from the factory which the Iwata does not have. The Teflon bearing is not affected by solvents so it won’t need to be sent in to be replaced like the Iwata eventually will. [;)]
Mike
I wondered about the needle bearings on the Iwatas too, that is untill after I called Iwata about this. Aparently they are manufacturing their airbrushes with the solvent proof needle bearings like Badger, Paasche and Omni instead of the rubber. Thankfully those days are over…not unless your spraying acid! [xx(]
This must be brand new then. I would call David Monning at Coast Airbrush and get the real lowdown on this. [;)]
Mike
Fwiw, When I bought my Revolution, I seem to remember it saying laquer friendly somewhere. I took that to mean that it had solvent proof bearings, not that I’ve tested it though. I’m sure that any top notch airbrush would be similar in performance. My Revolution only cost me 59 bucks though, good quality for a good price.
madda