Over the years I've used a number of different Badger and Paasche airbrushes. I've settled on a Badger single-action and a Paasche dual-action, and given away the others to my artist daughter. My choices were based almost solely on the "feel" of each airbrush, so it's important to try different brushes out. There were few airbrush clinics back in the 1970s, and I could write the purchases off as a business expense, so I didn't mind buying a number of them. The Paasche dates from the late 70s--I've replaced only one needle, and that's because I bent it.
Airbrushes Over the years I've had many airbrushes. a Pasche' and a couple of badgers. IMHO Pasche' is only if you do commercial art work. I dropped it and broke the tip. Expensive! I've found a very inexpensive alternative...Here in California we have a store chain called Harbor Freight Tools. Usually very cheap stuff, but cheap prices too. They have an airbrush from Chicago Pnuematic that is only $10. or $5 when they're on sale! That's right only FIVE BUCKS! I bought four. I thought if I break or cant clean it up or something, I'll throw it away and and use another.....But after 6 years I'm still using the same one. I gave two to friends and I still have a "back-up".
I've been to Harbor Freight Tools. I highly recommend it. They have lots and lots of air tools and expert help, too. All the little things you can't find are there.
That might be a good place for me to "get my feet wet." There's one between here and my office. If I decide the airbrush doesn't suit my needs I am only out five or ten bucks, and I can take it to a craft store or something and tell them what I do or don't like about it and they can then help me find the right Aztek, Badger, Paasche, Iwata, or whatever else. I have been to a couple art stores. One didn't have airbrushes. "They're really only for crafts," said the employee. Excuse me. I went to another art store and they had a few Iwatas but wouldn't let me try them out. I am thinking I should hit a Michael's. They are usually pretty good about letting you compare things. Thanks everyone for your suggestions, Adam
