The trigger is a crucial part of your airbrush. Here’s how it works and what are the pros and cons of each type.
Trigger, when it comes to the airbrush has two different meaning. The first is the obvious, the piece in your airbrush. The second refers to what this piece can do, often called trigger action. The latter is either single action, or dual action.
This article goes into more details about everything airbrush trigger related.
The Airbrush Trigger
An airbrush trigger is a lever-like mechanism located in the middle of the airbrush, towards the handle. This is for the traditional airbrushes. You can also get models with a pistol trigger. On these models the handle and trigger are located under the airbrush in a, you guessed it, handgun fashion.
Regardless of on top or on the bottom, the trigger does the same thing. It acts as a gateway between the paint reservoir and the air supply. When you press down on the trigger, it releases air into the airbrush and that’s how you spray.
On dual action triggers, it goes a step further. You can also control the flow of paint by pushing and pulling the trigger, which gives you a lot of control over your spray.
Regardless of the type, triggers are not a fragile part of your airbrush, and rarely if ever get damaged. They are however not interchangeable between most models, as the each have a width and length specific to their airbrush model.
Single Action Airbrush
A single action airbrush is a type of airbrush that operates on a simple mechanism: yes or no.
When the trigger is pressed, air comes out. The amount of paint released is typically preset or controlled in some other, often limited, fashion.
Single action airbrushes are often favored by beginners and tasks who require basic coverage and nothing more.
Dual Action Airbrush
On the other hand, the dual action airbrush is a more sophisticated tool that offers greater versatility and precision.
The dual action trigger allows for separate control of air and paint flow. Pressing the trigger down releases air, and pulling it back further releases more paint. This separate control allows you to create a wide range of effects, from fine lines to gradual fades and smooth gradients.
Dual action airbrushes are the go-to choice for most miniature painters that want to get more than primer and base coats out of their airbrush.
When it comes to trigger action, the only important factor to consider is how you intend to use your airbrush. If you have no interest in the finer things and the artistic hullabaloo, get a single action and save yourself the trouble.
On the other hand, if you’re looking to take miniature painting to the next level, dual action is how you unlock the true potential of airbrushing.