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The Iwata Revolution HP-BCR

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Information

Classification: Airbrush
Manufacturer: Iwata
Model: HP-BCR
Part Number: R 2000
Suggested Retail Price: $115.50 USD

SpecificationsIwata Revolution HP-BCR

Paint feed System: Siphon Feed
Trigger Style: Dual Action
Spray Type: Internal Mix
Spray Range: ~ .25 mm
to ~01.5 inches
Cup Size: Varies
Air Consumption:  ~ 0.2 cfm
Pressure Tolerance: < 100 psi
Standard Tip Size: 0.5 mm
Optional Tip Size: 0.3 mm

Matching Rules

  1. Desire for Iwata quality
  2. Desire for lower price
  3. Great for beginners

    The HP-BCR is sold in Hobby Kits because it's a great starter airbrush.  
  4. Forgives paint consistency mistakes
  5. I like pointing people toward an Eclipse BCS first since they're easier to clean, but the HP-CR beats the BCS on price.

Useful Accessories

  • External Micro Air Control Valve
  • Pistol Grip Moisture Filter

    This accessory doesn't always fit when you use large bottles.  Of course you can simply fit the bottle in a little off-skew and it'll be fine.
  • Pre-set handle

    If you're gonna spray the same amount time and time again, the pre-set handle helps you do this without tiring out your finger.
  • Quick Disconnect
  • Table Top Cleaning Station

Features

  • Ergonomic Handle
  • Teflon Needle Packing

Notes and Opinions:

  • The HP-BCR is an excellent siphon feed airbrush.

    All in all the Revolution BCR does a lot of things well.  I know artists that switch from other, more expensive airbrushes simply because the Revolution "does it" for them.
  • It's a great workhorse airbrush.
  • They're great for beginners who don't want to spend a fortune but still want something made to last.
  • They're generally easy to work with and replacement parts won't cost you an arm and a leg.
  • The HP-BCR is also packed in quite a few different kits.  Sometimes there's a compressor sometimes there isn't.
  • Highly suitable for multi-gun setups, though the Eclipse BCS is still more popular.  It's amazing how nice of a feature that self-centering nozzle is.

Links

Cleaning Guide Links

Outstanding/Common Problems

  • Tip Dry

     
    Tip dry sucks.  It's also unavoidable when you spray.  You can try chemical methods to reduce it (use a slow reducer for your paint--though that might not be an option depending on the environmental conditions you're spraying in).  Or you can use mechanical means...other wise known as cleaning it off yourself!
     
  • Clogs


    The smaller the nozzle, the more often your airbrush will clog.  To avoid these clogs make sure you strain and thin your paint.
  • Weak Nozzle

     
    Weak isn't quite the right word.  The nozzle is fairly strong, however, you're stronger than the nozzle.  This means that if you over tighten it it WILL break. BE CAREFUL!
  • Bent needles

     
    It's common, and it's your fault.  If you remove the needle cap to spray finer details you'll eventually bump the needle tip into something.

    The good news is that if you feel mechanically adept you can try repairing the needle yourself.

    The bad news is that most people don't do so great a job their first time repairing and polishing needles.  You'll probably want to go purchase another needle and possibly keep a spare around if this ever happens again.