Badger Air Brushes

[Anonymous]

I've researched for several days now airbrushes for model railroading use. I searched this forum and found a lot of past topics with varied opinions. However, I never really found any replies with a sincere opinion on what is really necessary for weathering and detailing of scenery, structures, etc. Single action sufficient or double action necessary?

I have narrowed down my decision to the Badger 200 or 150. Essentially it has come down to single vs. double action. I have no problem learning to use a double action, but my main question, - Is double action necessary for weathering and detailing and the preferred airbrush or is it overkill? Will the 200 be sufficient and make for realistic weathering? I want what will work for my railroad, not necessarily just simplicity or cheapest.

Any feedback from those experienced with either or both is appreciated.

Thanks, Vince

[Anonymous]

get a double action, at least with the paasche VLSTPRO i have, it has the ability to act like a single action as well, so if the double action doesn't work right, set the mixture rate, and just use it like a sigle action. Not sure if the badger double action does as well, but I'd bet it does.

Jay

[Anonymous]

[2c]
I use a double action when I want to do very fine lite subtle weathering.
I use a single stage for covering large areas.
Yes I could use the double action for large areas but personally I don't care for the way the double action feels for large jobs.

[AntonioFP45]

I've always recommended double action as it gives greater flexibility for various paint formulas and styles of painting. Once you get used to the different settings, it's just as easy as a single action brush.

I enjoy being able to control both, the fan width and the amount of material being sprayed out.

As always, when using ANY airbrush: Clean it properly and it will last you years!

[Blind Bruce]

I just bought a Badger 350 which is a single. It reminds me of the old Binks Wren brushes. If I want fine weathering, I just drop the air pressure to the brush. Not as convenient as a dual, but usually less expensive.
BB

[davekelly]

I also have a Badger 350 after using a 250 for years (both single action). They've both worked for me. Of course, Jay's post about the Paasche double action being able to work like a single action is very very interesting as that brush would let me do my projects the way I am used to while at the same time practicing on how to use a double action. That brush might be the way to go as it would be the best of both worlds.Very interesting.

Dave

[Anonymous]

I've just replaced my old Badger 200 with a new Badger 200! Double action is a proposition if you do a lot of airbrushing, but you will have to keep in good practice...

Allan Lees

[G Paine]

I bought my first airbrush around 1985, it was a Badger 200 with a Badger Whirlwind compressor. I still have the compressor, but am on my third replacement airbrush - this time a new style Badger 200. I'm still working our the slower response time of the new one.

My older 200s worked fine for weathering. Just crank the needle in till the flow almost stops. Keep testing on a paper towel until the flow is almost gone, and you are right for weathering. I also had the fine tip on my old 200s.

George