The Iwata Revolution HP-CR

Information

Desire for Iwata quality
Desire for lower price
Great for beginners

The HP-CR is about as close as you can come to my favorite airbrush, the Eclipse CS, without actually being the Eclipse CS.
There are three differences between the CR and the CS.
1. The Eclipse CS cleans up easier because it has a self-centering nozzle
2. The Revolution CR comes standard with a bigger nozzle. For beginners that's a good thing
3. The HP-CR is less expensive than the CS

The HP-CR is an excellent gravity feed 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.

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!
- Approved Tip Dry Removal Method
- Unapproved (though common) Tip Dry Removal Method
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.