Looking for my first airbrush. Please help me

M

Mihai

Guest
Hello everyone!

Hopefully you can help me decide what airbrush I should get as my first airbrush.

I am a total newbie so I really really need some help!

So my question is:

What airbrush should I get that is an all around good airbrush for base coating, priming, and also some detail work...like panel lines for example. ( I am not sure if you consider that detail work...but I do. For anything else smaller...like the cockpit buttons I would probably use a brush).

I searched online and on my local stores and I've found these airbrushes that are around my budget ( I will provide the **names**, **prices**, **links**..and what I know and think about them so far. If I am wrong, please **correct** me)

1) **Iwata HC-CS Eclipse** 0.35mm (also has an option for a 0.5mm) (around 200$ in my country (https://www.colorit.ro/aerograf-iwata-hp-cs-8133.html ):

I've read that is is a pretty good airbrush...lots of guys also recommend it. Will it work well for both details and base coating?

2) **Iwata Revolution HP CR** 0.5mm (around 150$) ( https://www.colorit.ro/aerograf-iwata-revolution-hp-cr-8138.html ) only availabe with the 0.5 needle at my local store at the moment

3) **Iwata Neo HP CN** 0.35mm (100$) ( https://www.colorit.ro/aerograf-iwata-neo-hp-cn-10667.html ) I know that this is a beginner model...but I am looking for sth that with help me in the future as well so I won't have to upgrade too soon

4) **H&S Evolution Two in One** 0.2 and 0.4mm (around the same price of the Iwata Eclipse) ( http://www.profiart.ro/catalog/product/aerograf-evolution-two-in-one ) (There's also the Evolution X Solo - or something like that - availabe)

5) **H&S Evolution Solo** 0.2mm (around 130$) (http://www.profiart.ro/catalog/product/aerograf-evolution-solo)

6) **Hansa Topline 381 Black** 0,3mm (around 150$) ( http://www.profiart.ro/catalog/product/aerograf-hansa-topline-381-black ) didn't find that many reviews and comparisons about this one. From what I've seen it's also made by H&S. The girl at the store actually said that this is better than the **Eclipse**. They didn't have the Eclipse in stock so I do not know if they were just trying to sell their product or this one is actually better than the Eclipse.

7) **Infinity CR Plus 0,2 mm** (230$) ( https://www.colorit.ro/aerograf-infinity-cr-plus-0-2-mm.html ) - a bit pricey for me at the moment as the Eclipse is already around my max budget...also it seems to have a smaller needle that might get clogged. I am not so sure about this one but if you guys think this is a must...then I will consider it. (I am already..just the price is throwing me back a bit).



I am inclined towards the Eclipse. I can afford it and lost of guys seem to recommend it. BUT what do I know...I am a newbie after all. Maybe let's say I can get the same results with the evolution solo or the revolution and by buying the Eclipse I am throwing money out the window)....That's why I need your help.

What I want to achieve are those kind of results :





Now don't get me wrong. I am not daydreaming. I know that I won't be able to do such things in even an year from now. But I want to get an airbrush that will let me do such things.

So which one from the ones I listed do you thing will be able to get me at least similar results in the future?

If you were kind enough to read all this...thank you...you are my hero.

So **TLDR** version of this would be: **Iwata HC-CS Eclipse 0.35mm**, **Iwata Revolution HP CR**, **Iwata Neo HP CN**, **H&S Evolution Two in One**, **Hansa Topline 381 Black**, **Infinity CR Plus 0,2 mm**

I am eager to hear as many opinions as possible. Hopefully you guys will be able to help me decide.


Best regards,
Michael
 
If I were you, I'd buy Eclipse HP-SBS. It allows to spray at any possible angle to the surface and has versatile 0.35mm setup.

In the past being a boy I also was building models. Considering this I'd suggest to think about buying in future HP-SB+ as it gives finer spray and you could do more detail work more easily as you could with an Eclipse. I'm not saying Eclipse is bad or smth, it's good brush and the best choice for you now among those in your list.

And I know what the moderators will tell you about your first post here;)
 
Hi Mihai, One of our other new members has asked the very same question and has decided to buy 2. The eclipse and the H&S 2 in one The eclipse will last a lifetime, great to start out with and you will still be using it when your experienced. I can't comment on the H&S because i've never used one but you have the versatility of a 0.4 and a smaller 0.2

Infinity = great brush but more for detail
Revolution = Good but not as good as the eclipse
Neo = Chinese made for Iwata.
Hansa = i know nothing about but i think its a not so cheap chinese airbrush.

Lee
 
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Ohh i forgot, Mihai, Would you mind popping to the introduction section and tell us a bit about yourself, where your from, what kit you have , what you want to paint etc etc we're nosey here and like to know about our members but it serves a purpose and that is we can guide you as to where to get the best supplies, best paint, and stuff like that.

Here's the link http://www.airbrushforum.org/introductions/

Lee
 
Boy, that is a mouth full :). Vladimir is hinting at the fact that the moderators will be along to welcome you, and kindly suggest you head over the intro section to make a proper introduction of yourself. I will say hi, and welcome aboard while I have you here ;);).

Out of the brushes you have listed, I too would go with the Eclipse. The side feed could very well be the ticket as well... for reasons you will figure out as you learn working on the models.

The Neo and Revolution are brushes that I stay away from recommending, as they leave a lot to be desired, and can really complicate the learning curve. All of the H&S models you have listed are basically the same, with different finishes. In terms of the working bits, and performance, they really do just about the exact same thing between them. i have several of them, and while I think the CR Plus is about one of the prettiest brushes made, I find that I do not use it very much. I have a decent number of brushes, and compared to some I enjoy, the H&S require more work on my part to produce the same kind of details...

There are a couple other brushes that I would also throw into the mix - knowing what you are looking to accomplish I would also add that the Badger Sotar, and due to the head system, and by extension, the Krome may be brushes that are also checking out. I would also back up Vladimir's comment about checking out the Iwata HP-Series, as they are capable of producing phenomenal details. The drawback, and reason I don't list them first, is that the need to have paint reduction and consistency figured out is more important in these, as they are not as forgiving as all the other brushes mentioned
 
I would go with the Eclipse SB unless you intend to do some other types of larger work in the future. Now I realize people will say about putting a bottle on the SB for larger amounts of paint, but being practical, trying to paint a t-shirt while holding a side feed bottle is not the most stable and natural feeling which is why I would sway towards the HP-CS in that scenario. Definitely invest in the .5mm conversion besides the .35mm that comes standard. This way it makes either a wise investment.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
http://fredaw61.wixsite.com/the-artist
 
For the type of modeling you do I suggest the Iwata Eclipse CS . The .5 needle/Nozzle from the BCS will fit into the CS giving you 2 in 1. The .5 is great for metallic (made for airbrushing) and makes fast work at basing a model out.
The Neo is hit or miss some have gotten a good one but most get the ones that are not so good.
 
Another Great airbrush is the Badger Krome and its a little lower cost and Between it and the HP-CS I don't see Enough diff. To worry about and I own Both airbrushs
 
mike here im also new to the forum, but not to airbrushing, maybe trying out the grex genesis line? you can get side feed or gravity, with 3 different cups, and the crown cap is magnetic at the feont of the brush and back so you dont lose it, for the money its a great deal and works awesome i have the grwx xn and grex genesis xgi2 side feed and the improvemnt from the xn to the xgi is ALOT, it does spray faster than other airbruahes i own, but grex pulled up in the model industry, just a thought

mike
 
oh and i forgot you can get .2mm, all the way to .7mm nozzle and needles sets with fan caps for the grex :)
 
I also own the grex XGI with a .2 and .7 needle and have only positive things to say about the new grex brushes.
There is a huge difference between the xn,xs,xh and the tritium and genesis series (xgi,xsi,ts,tg)
 
Lots of different recommendations for you :) I would say the Eclipse CS. It's a great brush to start out with and it will stay with you as you learn and increase your skills. It's easy to use and maintain...it can also be converted from a .35 needle/nozzle to a .5 . The one thing to keep in mind when purchasing your airbrush is also the availability of replacement parts in your area.
 
If I were you, I'd buy Eclipse HP-SBS. It allows to spray at any possible angle to the surface and has versatile 0.35mm setup.

In the past being a boy I also was building models. Considering this I'd suggest to think about buying in future HP-SB+ as it gives finer spray and you could do more detail work more easily as you could with an Eclipse. I'm not saying Eclipse is bad or smth, it's good brush and the best choice for you now among those in your list.

And I know what the moderators will tell you about your first post here;)

Hi Mihai, One of our other new members has asked the very same question and has decided to buy 2. The eclipse and the H&S 2 in one The eclipse will last a lifetime, great to start out with and you will still be using it when your experienced. I can't comment on the H&S because i've never used one but you have the versatility of a 0.4 and a smaller 0.2

Infinity = great brush but more for detail
Revolution = Good but not as good as the eclipse
Neo = Chinese made for Iwata.
Hansa = i know nothing about but i think its a not so cheap chinese airbrush.

Lee
Boy, that is a mouth full :). Vladimir is hinting at the fact that the moderators will be along to welcome you, and kindly suggest you head over the intro section to make a proper introduction of yourself. I will say hi, and welcome aboard while I have you here ;);).

Out of the brushes you have listed, I too would go with the Eclipse. The side feed could very well be the ticket as well... for reasons you will figure out as you learn working on the models.

The Neo and Revolution are brushes that I stay away from recommending, as they leave a lot to be desired, and can really complicate the learning curve. All of the H&S models you have listed are basically the same, with different finishes. In terms of the working bits, and performance, they really do just about the exact same thing between them. i have several of them, and while I think the CR Plus is about one of the prettiest brushes made, I find that I do not use it very much. I have a decent number of brushes, and compared to some I enjoy, the H&S require more work on my part to produce the same kind of details...

There are a couple other brushes that I would also throw into the mix - knowing what you are looking to accomplish I would also add that the Badger Sotar, and due to the head system, and by extension, the Krome may be brushes that are also checking out. I would also back up Vladimir's comment about checking out the Iwata HP-Series, as they are capable of producing phenomenal details. The drawback, and reason I don't list them first, is that the need to have paint reduction and consistency figured out is more important in these, as they are not as forgiving as all the other brushes mentioned
I would go with the Eclipse SB unless you intend to do some other types of larger work in the future. Now I realize people will say about putting a bottle on the SB for larger amounts of paint, but being practical, trying to paint a t-shirt while holding a side feed bottle is not the most stable and natural feeling which is why I would sway towards the HP-CS in that scenario. Definitely invest in the .5mm conversion besides the .35mm that comes standard. This way it makes either a wise investment.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk
http://fredaw61.wixsite.com/the-artist
For the type of modeling you do I suggest the Iwata Eclipse CS . The .5 needle/Nozzle from the BCS will fit into the CS giving you 2 in 1. The .5 is great for metallic (made for airbrushing) and makes fast work at basing a model out.
The Neo is hit or miss some have gotten a good one but most get the ones that are not so good.
Another Great airbrush is the Badger Krome and its a little lower cost and Between it and the HP-CS I don't see Enough diff. To worry about and I own Both airbrushs
Lots of different recommendations for you :) I would say the Eclipse CS. It's a great brush to start out with and it will stay with you as you learn and increase your skills. It's easy to use and maintain...it can also be converted from a .35 needle/nozzle to a .5 . The one thing to keep in mind when purchasing your airbrush is also the availability of replacement parts in your area.


Hey guys..thanks for your answers...and sorry for being a bit late to reply.


I started to think about the HP-C Plus (0.2mm) (I think this one should be a bit better than the Eclipse) and about the H&S Infinity (0.2mm) too.

I went to the local store yesterday and the guy there suggested this:

He said I should buy sth like a H&S Ultra (entry lvl h&s) with a small needle size 0.2mm and another cheap chinese ab for base coating. He said it would be a shame to use the Eclipse for such things and overuse it and damage it because I do too many things with it.he said to get a dedicated one for details and a cheap one for coating.

What do you think about this option? Would it be a good ideea? Could the Eclipse get damaged?

I also thought about the option of getting a two in one setup. Like the Infinity 2 in one that comes with a 0.2 and 0.4mm needle. What do you think about this? Would this be a better option than a single eclipse or a double setup with two ABs?

How's the H&S Infinity compared to the Iwata HP-C plus? or the Eclipse?

Right now I am thinking about the following options...please help me pick the best one (those are kind of the only airbrushes available for me in Romania...most shops sell either Iwata or H&S):

1) Iwata HP-CS (0.35mm)
2) Iwata HP-C Plus (0.2mm) + cheaper airbrush for base coating and priming
3) H&S Infinity 2 in 1 (0.2mm+0.4mm)
4) H&S Infinity (0.2mm) + cheaper airbrush for base coating and priming

I have the funds for any of these options...so pick the one that you think is better and please explain why. I really want to be able to do some nice detail on 1/72 and 1/48 scale models.

Also...what's the warranty used for? Under what circumstances would you use it?

I am waiting for more suggestions.

Best regards!
 
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Out of all the brushes mentioned in this thread, the Iwata Eclipse is by far the most rugged/durable (in my opinion). I can not imagine what would/could damage it by using it to base coat, and then detail paint. Sounds like a very serious sales pitch to me ;). It is a brush that will require a bit of learning curve to get fine details out of, as it is capable of moving a serious amount of paint. Trigger control takes some mastering, but the brush is extremely capable.

I have a couple of H&S brushes, with all the available nozzle/needle combos, as well as the spatter cap - I use my Iwata brushes far more. For me, I just find it easier to get consistent results out of my HP-B+ vs. the Infinity CR+. I have been able to get the Iwata trigger feel dialed in for my personal preferences, much better than the spongy feeling (to me) Infinity.

The HP-C+ is probably the one I would look the hardest at. Even with a .3 standard set up, it is quite capable of very detailed work, with less learning curve than an Eclipse - again, in my hands. Once the brush is learned, adding the .2 option will always be there, and is still capable of laying down a base coat, or primer - perhaps with a little more reducing if needed.
 
Out of all the brushes mentioned in this thread, the Iwata Eclipse is by far the most rugged/durable (in my opinion). I can not imagine what would/could damage it by using it to base coat, and then detail paint. Sounds like a very serious sales pitch to me ;). It is a brush that will require a bit of learning curve to get fine details out of, as it is capable of moving a serious amount of paint. Trigger control takes some mastering, but the brush is extremely capable.

I have a couple of H&S brushes, with all the available nozzle/needle combos, as well as the spatter cap - I use my Iwata brushes far more. For me, I just find it easier to get consistent results out of my HP-B+ vs. the Infinity CR+. I have been able to get the Iwata trigger feel dialed in for my personal preferences, much better than the spongy feeling (to me) Infinity.

The HP-C+ is probably the one I would look the hardest at. Even with a .3 standard set up, it is quite capable of very detailed work, with less learning curve than an Eclipse - again, in my hands. Once the brush is learned, adding the .2 option will always be there, and is still capable of laying down a base coat, or primer - perhaps with a little more reducing if needed.


Well I can get the HP-C+ with .2mm needle and a cheaper AB for base coating. What about that? I was considering first the Infinity CR+ and now the HP-C+.

Am I wrong that the HP-C+ is a better tool than the Eclipse? At lease that's what I think since it has more options for needle/nozzle.

Also...how does it compare to the Infinity? Will it get me the same fine line?

Also...one thing that I am afraid of with the HP-C+ (which is kinda the only drawback I've found so far) is the nozzle that is so small and you need to use that wrench to get it off. I am afraid that I will end up breaking it or something. Is is necessary to unscrew it for every clean up? How hard is to clean the HP-C+ compared to the Infinity? (I know Eclipse doesn't have the screw in nozzle)


Best regards!
 
Well I can get the HP-C+ with .2mm needle and a cheaper AB for base coating. What about that? I was considering first the Infinity CR+ and now the HP-C+.

Am I wrong that the HP-C+ is a better tool than the Eclipse? At lease that's what I think since it has more options for needle/nozzle.

Also...how does it compare to the Infinity? Will it get me the same fine line?

Also...one thing that I am afraid of with the HP-C+ (which is kinda the only drawback I've found so far) is the nozzle that is so small and you need to use that wrench to get it off. I am afraid that I will end up breaking it or something. Is is necessary to unscrew it for every clean up? How hard is to clean the HP-C+ compared to the Infinity? (I know Eclipse doesn't have the screw in nozzle)


Best regards!

Inexpensive brushes can come with their own challenge(s). I have worked a BUNCH with them. I have a Facebook page where I have started documenting some of my findings - please feel free to stop by and check it out - https://www.facebook.com/davegs.airbrush.exploration/ - If you click on the "Photo's" tab, and then on the "Albums" you will find several write up's that I have done. Because there are so many(imports) that look the same, but can vary greatly, I would have to see the intended brush in order to feel comfortable recommending it. Some of them are fantastic, most simply frustrating to try use.

I would agree that the HP-C+ is a finer brush than the Eclipse. More precise build, and better trigger. In my hands, I have an easier time using the HP-Series brushes than the H&S. I have seen some fantastic results with the H&S, so they are for sure capable. I just find it easier to get the results I am after with the Iwata's being discussed in this thread.

Yes, the nozzle on the Iwata HP series is VERY small. There is a learning curve for newbies in regard to cleaning a brush, and this is one area that can become a casualty. In 26 years of airbrushing, I have never broken one, but have seen plenty that have. They can usually be removed if that does happen, and we can save that conversation for another day. The H&S head system is much easier to deal with, and is quite cleverly designed, and well made.

I think some of it will come down to personal preference, and your ability to learn the tool being used. For me, I would put the HP-C+ in standard trim at the top of my list. Once I learned the brush, I would look at the .2 conversion as an option.
 
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I don't know what can be damaged in Eclipse:) As far as I know it's the most durable airbrush among Iwata. I have an Eclipse (and other Iwata series) and it works great.

Personally, never used (only hold in my hands) any H&S but my friends did use them (Infinities and Evolutions). And they say Iwata is much better for some reasons. H&Ss have weak nozzles which are broken a way faster than Iwata's, plating on the triggers comes off fast and fine details are more easily achieved by Iwata airbrushes. I trust my friends so I stay away from H&S:)

If you're ready to buy Iwata, I'd suggest HP-SB+ which is 0,2mm setup from the factory. Your field of use is modelling so this side feed model is the best choice for you, it's my opinion. You can get fine detail and spraying with it and spray at any possible angle.
HP-C+ comes with 0,3mm setup and you'll have to convert it to 0,2mm and converting will cost you some $$, so it's better to buy SB+:) HP-C+ does not give you a possibility to spray at any angle that, I think, is important for modelling.
For SB+ you can buy wide range of cups and side bottles that makes your AB versatile.

For inexpensive brush I'd suggest smth like this http://www.tcpglobal.com/MASS622-SET.html?sc=113&category=3101395#.WRdD8ZLyjwc
But I like more this one http://www.cnbida.com/products_detail/productId=360.html
http://www.cnbida.com/products_detail/productId=361.html
Try to find them locally. More likely they will not be branded Fengda. That model from TCP looks like not Fengda product, Fengda's nozzles are not unplated brass.

I've got HP-SB+ and Fengda 182 so the suggestions are from my experience.
 
Search miniature painting ( warhammer games, less than an inch miniatures), in youtube, you will see for yourself wich is the prefer airbrush for that kind of work!!


Enviado desde mi iPad utilizando Tapatalk
 
I would get the Eclipse For starter as it will do alot more then most in both fine detail and base coverage, But as you will find out i'm sure there is a learning curve to any airbrush and once you learn THAT you will be able to paint with about any airbrush! (you will have more prob. with the cheaper ones but they will work too) for detail work you will need to learn how to set your air pressure and how to Reduce your paint to spray at lower P.S.I. as only then will you be able to get the greater details in your work.
 
I have to agree with Dave and Valdimir, I can not imagine what the guy was talking about "damaging" the Eclipse from "over use" makes no sense to me at all... as a retailer, honestly, the first question that came to mind was... are they out of stock? trying to up-sell you?

For your first airbrush I would highly suggest staying away from the .15 or .2 needle/nozzle combinations, until you learn about paint reductions and techniques. Search around the forum and one of the most asked questions is about paint reductions and the frustrations people experience when they are starting out. Smaller needle/nozzle combinations do not necessarily mean better detailing for a first time airbrusher.

The cheaper airbrushes or Chinese knock off brushes; stay away from them (just my opinion guys). I can't tell you how many people contact me and they simply can not get the airbrush to work properly, they need parts, they can't find replacements for the brush...more often then not, I end up selling them the Eclipse CS.

You are just starting out, again I would just say get the eclipse... save the headache and spray on ;) You can pull some very fine lines and details with the CS, but start at the first, step learn the basics, get the reductions, practice and details will come as you learn trigger control and your skills increase.
 
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