Airbrush Purchase Advice Needed, Please Help!

[RAZ!]

Hi I'm just getting into airbrushing and have seriously been looking at buying an Aztek - A4709 (plastic) or the A7778 (metal). I like the idea of the ergonomic design, as I had an accident with my hand a few years back. Although I have full use of it, my forefinger is slightly numb and my hand can get a little sore and tired after a while. I'm looking to find out what differences there are, if any between the two (in feel and weight) and how anyone rates their performance across the board in comparison with other airbrush brands? I'd be grateful for any help I can get, as I can't test them out for my self. They are not yet available in my country (NZ) and I will have to buy via the web, so I'm relying on some good advice here.

[stuffbyalex]

I would personally stay away from plastic airbrushes, but that's just me. you might be better off trusting someone with more airbrushing experience than me

[sketches_of_b]

I guess it depends what you'll be using the airbrush for. I play around with some custom flames on helmets, etc. and use an Iwata HP-BC. It's a dual action which means you have control of the air pressure and paint flow. You can do anything from a pencil thin line to over an inch blast of paint all with the control of your finger. It is an expensive airbrush through retailers, but ebay has them for good prices. There are other quality airbrushes out there and I hope other artists will weigh in to give you a more balanced opinion. I would suggest you stay away from the single action and plastic airbrushes(as alex also suggested).

Here's a (girl's) helmet I did with the Iwata.





I hope this helps. B

[RM Designs]

First of all, what are you looking to paint? Are you leaning towards automotive airbrushing, illustration etc? I've been airbrushing for 3 years and I would highly suggest an Iwata. They can be expensive for the better models but you can get a revolution for around $70 I think. It's a very good brush for the money. You will want a double action for sure since it will have the most control and will last a long time as your skill grows. If you want to next model up, it would be the Iwata Eclipse which is an all around good brush. I have tried other airbrushes before but none have come close to an Iwata. It sounds like an ad but honestly, they are very good.

I painted with an Revolution and a HP-C+.

[RAZ!]

These are great Art guys! Thanks showing me these, they're fantastic. I also thank you for your suggestions! However both the Azteks are double action airbrushes and have a range of at least 9 nozzles which can be used for all applications. These are not cheap brushes (plastic kits starting at about $140 US with a life time guarantee on the body). I really do appreciate your suggestions but do need to hear from someone who's used these airbrushes before.