discussion Are Iwata Airbrushe's really the "Cadillacs" of airbrushes?

[Guest]

I'm about to spend atleast $120.00 (U.S) on an airbrush through amazon and I see Paasche VL ($75) or Badger 150 ($90) then finally Iwata HP around $120. It seems like everyone raves how amazing Iwata are and how superior they are to Badger and Paasche. Is Iwata really the best?

 

[Ian M]

I use a badger infinity and think its rather good. I also use a Sparmax at under half the price and it is just as good.

Price is not always a sign of quality but can at times be a sign of manufacturers greed.

My best advice is GO to a shop and buy one. Buying one over the web is OK but it sucks when you get it home to find its not the one for you. Even the best one in the world could just lie wrong in your hand.

Reviews are helpful, touch and try is more so.

Ian M

 

[tr1ckey66]

Yes

 

[Guest]

My first airbrush was an Aztec. Now I'm using an Iwata.

The difference is absolutely considerable....

 

[stona]

Nope! I'm an Iwata user and they are very good brushes but there are several other manufacturers at the high end of the market who make brushes just as good. They can't all be Cadillacs

The high end and more expensive brushes are better made than the cheaper brushes with superior materials and finer tolerances. They are simply better tools, but that doesn't mean a cheap one won't work. I bet it won't be working in twenty years time though.

Another factor to consider is parts and service. If you do drop that brush and bend the needle or break the nozzle will you be able to replace it? What will you do when a seal or 'o' ring finally fails? Here in the UK all the reputable brands, including Iwata, have back up from dealers which will be able to provide you with a part or parts and even service the airbrush for you should you so wish. I use a family firm called 'Airbrushes.com', a descendant of the company that made the famous Conopois airbrush, who specialise in Iwata, Paasche and Badger, but there are others too. That won't happen with your cheap Chinese copy, though you can always buy another one!

Cheers

Steve

 

[john i am]

I brought several cheapo airbrushes in a relatively short space of time then I bit the bullet and brought an iwata I've had it about two years I haven't been shopping since for anything relating to airbrushes or the parts for them.Although I really do recommend try before you buy I brought mine from a model show and had a 10 min demo before getting mine.Also just because I'm happy with iwata it might not be the same for you and there are other high end brands equally as good as the iwata so try before you buy and make sure you can take it back if problems arise good luck John