My eldelry Paasche H is showing signs of needing replacement, so I thought I’d give the newer Badger AB a go. Although I have a Badger 100LG that I use for the more demanding camo schemes, I still prefer a single action syphon feed for most general work. I ordered the AB from Dixie Art today & when I get it I’ll post a review.
I think you’ll like it, Rick. The 200 in one flavor or another has been around a long time. I have one that I got about 17 years ago and it still works as well today as the day I bought it. They flow paint very well, even at relatively low pressure. The only problem I’ve had with mine (and I think the newer ones are completely different) is the Teflon washer behind the head getting flattened. I started leaving the head loose after I use the brush and that problem went away.
I’ll back up Scott’s review. I just recently received a 200-20 after having a Badger 150 for a few years and a 100LG for the past year.
I find the 200-20 nearly foolproof to use and the ability to “dial” in the line thickness consistantly is a bonus.
The teflon washer does tend to get flattened over time, but that’s also a problem with the 100/150 line since the head and needle tip are the same one. The 200NH has a different head assembly that eliminates the washer, and that’s the ones Scott is refering to.
The 200-20 has the “detail” spray regulator instead of the crown regulator on the 100/150.
I think you’ll be pleased with your new acquisition!
I just got 200NH and love it. I know it’s not -20 but both have the calibrated tail end for needle adjustment and it helps me to spray the lines better. I already have Anthem 155 and they share the same needle and head. [:D]
Well, I wont be getting the new AB any time soon. Got an e-mail from Dixie arrt saying Badger was having production difficulties & there will be a 4 week wait [:(].
Not sure what’s up with Badger, I heard somewhere they were bought by another company ( I don’t think so…), their site says they’re doing maintenance, Bear Air has none of their brushes in stock, and they don’t display any of the 200 models on their site.
The problem is that these retailers wait until they are almost out of stock and then call Badger crying that they need airbrushes right away. Well it doesn’t work that way!
They are really busy trying to keep up with orders was what Ken told me last time I asked him.
Thanks Mike for the very thoughtful offer, but I told Dixie to go ahead with the Back Order. I guess I can wait a few weeks, & I don’t need 2 of em [:)]. BTW, you seem to have a pretty tight relationship with Badger, so what have you heard about the new “Renegade” AB’s about to be introduced ?
You might also check your local Hobby Lobby (if you have one) to see if they have any in stock…use the 40% coupon and $ave.
I can’t believe you’ve worn out an ‘H’, considering the components are all replaceble. I’ve had one for…well longer than I can remember, it was one of my first real airbrushes from back when I was just getting serious about modeling.
Sadly, there is no good local source for this AB…I’ve looked.
You’re right about the Paasche H. Mine is about 25 years old with extensive use & on it’s third or fourth set of replacement tips & needle assemblies. But the air valve release is starting to leak & it’s easier to just replace the AB. I love the reliable old H & use it for most general work, reserving the Badger 100LG for more demanding tasks. I thought I’d try the Badger 200/20 since I really do like the 100LG. But I’ll very likely end up buying another Paasche H as well [:)].
No problem Rick, just thought I would offer if you needed it now. [;)]
Yes I am friends with Ken and we talk occasionally but not much lately as I think he is real busy…as usual! The new Renegade airbrushes look good and I have heard positive things about them so far from people I read that have used them. I am supposed to get one sometime to try out also but haven’t seen one yet.
Got a phone call from Dixieart this afternoon with an apology for the delay & to tell me the backordered Badger had arrived & they were shipping it out today [:D].
I was really surprized by the personal call rather than an email, but that’s pretty good customer service IMHO.
The UPS Truck pulled up this afternoon & dropped off a small box. Inside the box was my new AB !! [:D][party].
Hooked it up & ran some thinner through it & all seems well. I have rather small hands & the AB fits me perfectly. Someone with big mitts might find it a bit small. The quality is typical Badger & has just the right heft for extended spray sessions without breaking your wrist. I’ll run some paint through it tonight or tomorrow & see how it works under fire. I think it’s going to be the perfect companion for my 100LG.