Time to upgrade? (Airbrush discussion)

[scorpiomikey]

Ive got a Iwita-Medea Neo CN Gravity. I love this airbrush, its my first airbrush, and apart from a few tiny operator errors, it does everything i want. Theres no surprises with it.
However, i would like to upgrade at some point. Something with a few more options for parts and service, something that feels a little better in hand etc.
Id be interested to see mini reviews of your primary airbrushes to help me make a decision on my next brush. At this stage, no budget, once i know what im looking for ill figure out money.
Thanks for your input guys.

Oh and just so you guys know, i wont just be using this for models, I use it for art as well.

[BorgR3mc0]

As much as I would like to help you, I use very basic AB's.

I have a Badger 350 (single action, external mix), one of those "my first" AB type. But it is my primary AB. Since I have a good compressor I can do a lot of stuf with that AB. Everything except thin lines, free hand camo and motteling. For that I use a Badger 200 (single action, internal mix). That is also a very simple AB but works for me. I just set it up to do fine lines and can do motteling and free hand camo with that one.

Here are some examples:









My main advice would be: if have not got one already, invest in a good (silent) compressor. Having a steady flow of dry air (add a water trap!) improves all aspects of airbrushing.

[Medicman71]

I have the Iwata Neo as well and love it. My other is a Iwata HP-C+ (Double action). It's also a great airbrush.

[LyleW]

I have three...I don't know why. Two Badgers - the 155 and the 105 and an Iwata HP-CS I bought on clearance at Hobby Lobby. I find myself using the Badger 105 Patriot a lot. Can't get comfortable with the Iwata yet.

[Thomas_M]

...Can't get comfortable with the Iwata yet.

Send it over, Lyle! Always wanted to try something else than my Harder & Steenbeck airbrushes!

Indeed I am very happy with my H&S Evolution 2n1, coming with a 0.4 and 0.2mm nozzle. I use this airbrush for so many years (10? 20?) I cannot remember. H&S is fantastic value for money and maybe the most easy airbrushes to clean after use.

[LyleW]

Right. Go wait by the mailbox! Take some snacks.

[Medicman71]

Did someone say snacks??

[lawdog114]

I use a Thayer Chandler (made by Badger I believe) double action gravity feed brush. I like it because you only need one needle for everything and they're fairly inexpensive (about $100 give or take). I also have a Testor's Aztec that's never even been out of the box. This is one of those love it or hate it brushes. I'm still hesitant to try it but I've seen others have good results with them. Perhaps a whirl someday.

Don't even get me started on compressors.....cough cough (Silentaire)....cough cough (garbage)....cough cough (lousy customer service)....

Joe