Is it a bad idea to buy a used airbrush?

[DSM-Mark]

I'm looking at one used, and basically I can get it to my door and in running condition for about $40 less than buying a new one plus a hose (the used one comes with a hose). The airbrush is advertised as being in perfect condition, cleaned well after each use, and only used 4-5 times. Seller only used acrylics in the brush, so even if there's some residue, it shouldn't be too hard to clean it out.

Do it? Or just shell out the extra $40 for a new one?

[willimo]

If you could take a look at it, I would, if not, I dunno. It should be ok, if you trust the seller to be telling the truth about cleaning it religiously. Really, the important question is "Why is he getting a new one?" If he has to get a new one because he abused the old one, then no, not worth it. If he upgraded and needed something nicer, then, sure. $40 is a bit, and if it's a significant amount of the new price of the airbrush (like, $40 out of $120 v $40 out of $300) that's worth considering. And really, you'll be cleaning the airbrush after each use, and taking it completely down every once in a while anyway, right? You should be able to take it all down once you get it and get it good as new pretty easily, even if it hadn't been taken care of. I'd be more on the look out for bent needles or cone.... things, or worn out springs etc.

[Ferrari TR]

I've bought 3 "like new" AB's. All had minor issues when I got them, each one required a small inexpensive part to make them complete. I've had good luck and saved a lot of money.
"Your results may vary" lol