[rocinante]

I am deciding some of my prize possessions need a more durable finish on them. Anybody got opinions on air brushes and/or their compressors? Ideally I would like something that runs quiet, can handle gun finish paints, easy to clean up, runs fairly constant so I do not have to worry about it quitting at the wrong moment and around 100 dollars.

[Chawbaccer]

You might search Dick Blick (http://www.dickblick.com/zz251/12/)'s catalog. I think these diaphram compressors are kind of the standard. You may consider using a larger shop compressor. Once you have it pumped up it will take a while for an airbrucsh to kick it on again. I don't spray guns but I do like to use a small auto touch-up gun for spraying varnish and paint on woodworking projects.

[jfdavis58]

I've airbrushed for many years. Brushes: Paache is good-especially the top of the line; Aztec OK if you like the grip; IWATA is my hands-down favorite-I've got 6; built like a tank and very precise tools.

I generally, dislike diaphragm compressors unless it's a one shot need: hot and noisy, sometimes irregular airflow and definitely hard to regulate. For studio work something like the Badger Millionaire line, silent compressor is excellent. Frankly a good shop compressor (EX: Sear/craftsman) and a solid regulator might give better versatility. I've got a five gallon craftsman in the garage that I use for--well--anything that needs a shot of air! It's loud, but it will drive nails inflate tires, blow the dirt off the dog and shoot paint. It's perfect for blowing a gun dry too.

You may also need a water trap--depending on your location and humidity.

[krs]

Harbor Freight has a whole selection of compressors and airbrush setup kits that work pretty good, believe it or not. The one that's around $70. is the best of them - adjustable andvery portable little sucker.