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Airbrush Kits for Models: What a Starter Setup Needs

How to choose an airbrush kit for model kits: single vs dual action, gravity vs siphon feed, a compressor with a tank, paint thinning, cleaning and safety.

By Gundam Models editorial teamUpdated 3 min readHow we research

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A man holding an airbrush and its coiled air hose
Photo: Shixart1985 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

A starter airbrush kit for models needs an airbrush, a compressor (ideally with an air tank) and a hose that fits both. Revell describes single action as the simple, reliable choice for primers and base coats, and dual action as the one for fine detail. Add extraction and a mask before you spray indoors.

Airfix lists an airbrush and compressor as an advanced tool: a big step up in both finish quality and complexity. Revell’s airbrush guide explains why builders make the step: airbrushed layers are thin enough to keep a model’s fine detail, and they dry quickly, which cuts the risk of dust settling in the paint.

Single action or dual action?

A single-action airbrush with a glass paint jar and a braided air hose
A single-action airbrush with a siphon-feed paint jar underneath.Photo: Michel90 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0
Type How it works (Revell) Best for
Single action Press the lever: air and paint come out together; set the paint amount beforehand Primers, base coats, large areas
Dual action Press down for air, pull back to add paint, both while spraying Fine lines, shading, camouflage

Revell calls dual action indispensable for freehand camouflage and subtle gradients, and says it takes some practice and muscle memory at first.

Gravity feed, siphon feed or side feed?

  • Gravity feed: the paint cup sits on top. Revell says it needs less pressure, often 1.0 to 1.5 bar, and uses small amounts of paint fully. Good for detail.
  • Siphon (bottom) feed: the jar sits below and paint is drawn up. Revell gives about 1.8 to 2.2 bar and notes the advantage is volume: large jars cover big areas without refilling.
  • Side feed: the cup attaches at the side and can often rotate, useful for awkward angles.

Airbrush kits with a compressor

Shop airbrush kits with a compressor

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Choosing an airbrush compressor

Revell describes modern piston compressors as oil-free, low-maintenance and quiet. Its main advice is to choose one with an air tank: the motor switches off when the tank reaches pressure, and you spray from the tank without pulsation.

Getting paint to spray well

Revell’s workshop advice is that most spraying problems, such as clogged nozzles, rough surfaces and spitting, trace back to the wrong paint consistency. Its rule of thumb:

  1. Thin the paint to about the consistency of low-fat milk. A drop on the side of the mixing cup should leave a semi-transparent film.
  2. Start with a mist coat, a very thin, slightly tacky layer.
  3. Follow with one or two even wet coats, never one heavy coat.
  4. Keep the needle tip clean during breaks, with a cloth or swab moistened with cleaner.
A man holding an airbrush and its coiled air hose
Photo: Shixart1985 / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0

Cleaning after each session

Revell’s routine: between colors, spray out the remaining paint, wipe the cup, fill it with cleaner and back-flush by holding a cloth over the nozzle cap, then spray cleaner until it runs clear. At the end of a session, clean the needle from back to front and clean the nozzle with a cleaning needle or nozzle brush.

Safety

Revell warns that even water-based acrylics create fine droplets that can reach the lungs. It recommends an extraction system that removes paint mist where it forms, together with a particle or half mask, and a respirator with an activated carbon filter for enamels and solvent-based paints. Bandai also asks builders to spray only in a well-ventilated place.

Using an airbrush on Gunpla

An airbrush and compressor setup for model kits works for Gunpla too. Keep Bandai’s paint warnings in mind: lacquer and enamel products can damage ABS parts. Mr. Hobby also sells a Gundam Marker Airbrush System that sprays from Gundam Markers, an entry point with no paint mixing.

For brush, marker and spray-can painting first, read how to paint Gunpla. For kits to practice on, see model airplane kits, car model kits and plastic model kits for beginners.

Frequently asked questions

Is a single-action or dual-action airbrush better for beginners?

Single action is simpler. Revell explains that pressing the lever releases air and paint together, with the paint amount set beforehand, which suits primers and large single-color areas. Dual action gives far more control for fine detail and camouflage, but takes practice.

Do I need a compressor with a tank?

It helps. Revell notes that a compressor with an air tank switches its motor off once the tank is full, so you spray from the tank without pulsation. Oil-free piston compressors are common for hobby use.

What air pressure should I use for model airbrushing?

Revell gives 1.0 to 1.5 bar as often enough for a gravity-feed airbrush and about 1.8 to 2.2 bar for a siphon-feed one. Follow your airbrush and paint maker's instructions for the exact setting.

Is airbrushing safe indoors?

With protection. Revell warns that even water-based acrylics create fine droplets that can reach the lungs, and recommends an extraction system plus a particle or half mask, and a respirator with an activated carbon filter for solvent-based paints.

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