What are the disadvantages of trigger-type airbrushes? We also introduce their advantages and differences from other types.
What are the disadvantages of trigger-type airbrushes? We also introduce their advantages and differences from other types.
There are three main methods for painting plastic models: brush painting, spray cans, and airbrushing. Among these, airbrushing is popular because it can paint large areas evenly, and can also create gradations, create fine details, and create complex color changes.
In this article, we will introduce the different types of airbrushes, particularly trigger type, the advantages and disadvantages of using them, and recommend some products.
table of contents
◾️What is an airbrush anyway?
An airbrush is a painting tool that uses compressed air to spray paint onto an object in a mist. It is used not only for hobbies such as plastic models, but also for industrial products, automobiles, electronic parts, furniture, signs, etc.
To airbrush painting, you need the handpiece, which is the main part of the tool, as well as a compressor to compress the air and send it to the handpiece, and an air hose to connect the handpiece to the compressor.
However, recently, rechargeable airbrushes with integrated handpieces and compressors have appeared, some of which do not require an air hose. This has made airbrushes more affordable than before, and they are becoming even more popular.
◾️Airbrush (handpiece) type
There are three types of airbrush handpieces: single action, double action, and trigger. Here we will explain the characteristics, advantages and disadvantages of each.
◾️Single action type
The single action type is a handpiece that can spray paint with one action. Adjust the amount of paint sprayed with the dial on the back and press the button to spray the paint.
The advantage of using a single action type is that it can maintain a constant amount of spray. It is the least time-consuming way to paint a wide area evenly. Another advantage is that it is cheaper than other types.
The downside is that it is difficult to precisely adjust the amount of spray, and you have to turn the dial every time you want to change the amount sprayed.
◾️Double action type
The double action type is a handpiece that sprays paint with two actions: a button and a lever. Press the button to release air, and adjust the amount of paint sprayed by pulling the lever. This is the most popular type of airbrush.
The advantage of using a double action type is that you can precisely adjust the amount of paint sprayed. In addition to solid paint, you can also paint gradations, which are unique to airbrushes, and paint on parts with uneven surfaces.
However, some disadvantages include the fact that it takes some getting used to in order to produce a beautiful gradation paint, and because you have to handle both buttons and levers at the same time, it is not suited to long periods of painting.
◾️Trigger type
The trigger type is a type of handpiece that is intermediate between single action and double action. When you pull the trigger lightly, only air comes out, and when you pull it further, paint is sprayed out.
The ability to operate and adjust the spray volume with a single trigger combines the features of both single action and double action. In that sense, the trigger type is a handpiece that is halfway between single and double action.
The advantages and disadvantages of each trigger type will be explained in detail in the next section.
◾️Advantages of trigger type airbrushes
There are two main advantages to using a trigger type airbrush:
◾️Your fingers won't get tired even after long hours of work
One of the advantages of the trigger type is that it is easy to hold and your fingers don't get tired even when working for long periods of time.
Compared to double action types, the ability to adjust the application and spray volume just by pulling the trigger is a major advantage. Recommended for those looking for an airbrush that doesn't tire you out.
◾️Easy to paint large parts
Another advantage of the trigger type is that it is easy to paint large parts. The amount of paint sprayed with an airbrush is not only adjusted with a dial, lever, or trigger. The size of the nozzle from which the paint is sprayed also has a big impact.
The trigger type is compatible with not only the standard size of 0.3 mm, but also with larger nozzles such as 0.5 mm, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Being compatible with larger nozzles is an advantage, especially when painting large parts.
Disadvantages of trigger type airbrushes
The main disadvantages of using a trigger type airbrush are:
◾️It's difficult to express subtlety
With the trigger type, everything from releasing the air to adjusting the amount of air sprayed is controlled using just the trigger, so it is difficult to maneuver and it can be difficult to achieve delicate expression until you get used to it.
However, some trigger types are relatively easy to operate even for beginners. For example, if there is a dial-type needle stopper, it is possible to reduce the risk of pulling the trigger too hard when painting delicate parts.
◾️It is expensive compared to other types
Another disadvantage of the trigger type is that it is more expensive than single action or double action types.
You need to balance this with the benefits, so consider carefully if you have a limited budget.
◾️Who is a trigger type airbrush recommended for?
Taking into account the above advantages and disadvantages, trigger-type airbrushes are recommended for people who paint for long periods of time, paint a lot of solid colors, or frequently build large plastic models.
Once you get used to using it, you will be able to perform delicate painting, making this the ideal type for those looking for a handpiece that is easy on the eyes and can be used for a variety of painting tasks.
RAYWOOD's trigger type handpieces are equipped with a head assembly system that eliminates compatibility issues when changing the aperture. It can accommodate a wide range of apertures from 0.2 to 0.8 mm.
◾️Points to check other than the handpiece when choosing an airbrush
When painting with an airbrush, wear a mask and goggles. This is because when using an airbrush, the particles expelled from the airbrush may enter the body. Don't forget to ventilate the room and take care to prevent particles from entering the body as much as possible. Since the airbrush can affect more than just the person painting, make sure there are no other people around when using the airbrush.
◾️Paint cup type
The paint cup is a part used to hold paint. There are two types: one-piece type that is integrated with the handpiece and is easy to maintain, and separate type that allows you to use cups of different capacities depending on the purpose.
If you often use multiple colors and paint solid paint for long periods of time, we recommend the separate type, but if you often paint delicate areas, we recommend the one-piece type.
◾️Accessories
As mentioned at the beginning, in addition to the handpiece, an airbrush requires a compressor to compress the air and an air hose to connect the handpiece and compressor. Therefore, beginners, especially, may be confused about which items to combine.
If you really don't know what to buy, you can also purchase a set that includes a handpiece, compressor, and air hose.
◾️【PROFIX】Recommended handpieces
Here, we will introduce products from RAYWOOD's airbrush brand, PROFIX, for those who are having trouble choosing an airbrush.
◾️Handpiece (trigger type)
The "PROFIX Tech Liner TH-T01 Trigger Handpiece" is easy to clean and maintain because it has an integrated cup. It comes with a dial-type needle stopper and a nozzle that supports 0.2 to 0.5 mm, so you can adjust the maximum amount of spray to your liking, preventing the risk of failure even when painting delicately.
In addition, the "PROFIX Tech Liner TH-T02 Trigger Handpiece" is a separate cup type that allows you to change the cup capacity depending on the application, so it is recommended for people who paint for long periods of time or paint a lot of solid colors.
PROFIX Tech Liner TH-T01 Trigger Handpiece (with integrated cup)
PROFIX Tech Liner TH-T02 Trigger Handpiece (Cup Separate Type)
◾️Summary
Airbrushes are a method of painting plastic models and the like, which involves compressing the air with a compressor and using that force to spray paint. If you have a double action or trigger type, you can adjust the amount of paint sprayed while you are painting, so you can use it for a variety of painting methods, from solid paint to delicate painting.
In particular, the trigger type has the advantage that you can adjust the amount of spray just by pulling the trigger, so you don't get tired even if you use it for a long time. It is a popular painting method for beginners and advanced painters alike, especially when applying paint to large areas.
RAYWOOD's trigger-type airbrushes are reasonably priced, high-quality products, and have excellent customer support, so even beginners can use them with confidence. If you want to use an airbrush but don't know which one to choose, please feel free to contact us.
《ABOUT RAYWOOD》
PROFIX
PROFIX is an airbrush brand that aims to become the next generation standard. With the concept of "long-lasting use," we provide products that users can use with peace of mind for a long time. We offer a wide variety of items, including paint booths, compressors, and airbrushes.
