Hi there,

I been modelling for >5 years now, mostly 1/35 & 1/72 AFV. So far I can live by with just using the brush, but I wasnever happy with my paint job. Especially when it comes to large flat surfaces.

The only reason I didn't invest in an ari brush is the startup cost.

If I were to get an ari brush, I think I can start with a cheap air brush then move on to a moderate one. However for air compressor, I would like to get a quiet and compact unit, this usually will cost >$200. I just never can quite justify the cost considering most of my kits only cost around $5~20.

So just wonder apart from using with your airbrush can the compressors be use for other tasks as well?

thx.

The small, quiet hobby ones can't really be used for much more than an airbrush. They don't put out enough pressure and volume for major jobs. I would recommend a good, household compressor. I have a Sears Craftsmen 3/4 HP compressor hooked up to a 3 gallon air tank with quickconnects. The compressor will go up to 110 psi. I have used it to do everything from airbrushing fine details, to blowing ups inflatable toys for the kids, to running impact wrenches when working on my truck. It can do it all. The household ones are cheaper as well. I spend $100 for mine 17 years ago and it is still going strong. Can't beat that. It is a little loud, but I use it outside or in the garage and it isn't really a problem.

I run a 2 gallon comp for my airbrush.. Hooked up a moisture trap and IM ready to go.. Like Gino, my comp will run a small air nailer or smaller air tools..

Dave

I too bought a small household compressor instead of a hobby compressor for the multi-use capability. I have a small C-H compressor with a 2-gal air tank and it has worked great for the past 5 years or so for me. I believe I paid around $70 for it at a local mass-merchandiser.

On my hobby workbench I ran a short length of 1/4" piping with a quick disconnect on one end to hook up the flexible compressor hose, and the airbrush hose attached to the other end. In between there is an air filter and desicant in line moisture trap.

When not attached to the airbrush, I use the compressor to run my finish and brad nail guns for woodworking, pump up car/bicycle tires, as well as use it as a very powerful duster with an air-spray nozzle.

The only downside is it is a little noisy when pumping up the tank, but I can live with that.

Hope this helps.

I use a Revell Omega Airbrush Compressor (copy of Werther SilAir 15 Export) with 1 liter air tank, very quiet (38 dB), 85 psi.

I can also use this compressor for pumping up bicycle tires, balls... and for cleaning computer keyboard, model kits, etc.

The reason that I bought this compressor: after using some air cans at 14 euros/can, I get know that was not the economic way to continue buying aircan although the kits are 10 or 15 euros and there are more than 100 unbuilt kits on my shelves.

A small home compressor can do lots of things as mentioned before by others. My model uses is about 75% of the tasks I use it for.