Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot Fine Gravity Airbrush

1. Introduction

The Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot is a dual-action, internal mix, gravity-feed airbrush designed for precision and versatility. It features a permanently mounted 1/3 ounce color cup and a single 0.50 millimeter needle/nozzle configuration, capable of spraying a wide range of materials. This airbrush is suitable for crafters, artists, and hobbyists seeking detailed applications or when small amounts of color are required.

Key features include:

• Dual-action, gravity feed design.
• Single 0.5mm needle/nozzle for various mediums.
• Easy maintenance self-centering nozzle.
• Acute tapered color well for faster cleaning.
• Patented easy access needle removal system.

Figure 1: Front view of the Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot Airbrush.

2. Setup

The Model 105 Patriot requires minimal assembly. Ensure all components are securely attached before connecting to an air source.

1. Unpacking: Carefully remove the airbrush and any accessories from the packaging. Inspect for any visible damage.
2. Air Source Connection: Connect the airbrush to your air compressor or air source using an appropriate air hose. Note that Badger uses a proprietary thread for their air hose attachment, which may require a specific adapter (sold separately) if not using a Badger hose.
3. Initial Cleaning: Before first use, flush the airbrush with an appropriate cleaning solution (e.g., airbrush cleaner or distilled water) to remove any manufacturing residues.

Figure 2: Side view of the airbrush, showing the air inlet connection point.

3. Operating Instructions

The Model 105 Patriot is a dual-action airbrush, meaning the trigger controls both air and paint flow independently.

1. Loading Paint: Pour your desired medium into the 1/3 ounce gravity feed color cup. Ensure the paint is properly thinned for airbrushing. The 0.5mm needle/nozzle is compatible with various mediums including inks, dyes, watercolors, acrylics, enamels, lacquers, glazes, latex, Air-Opaque, Spectratex, MODELflex, and Stynylrez primers.
2. Air Control: Press down on the trigger to release air.
3. Paint Control: While holding the trigger down for air, pull the trigger back to release paint. The further back you pull, the more paint will be sprayed. Practice varying pressure and pull to achieve desired effects.
4. Spray Pattern: Adjust your distance from the surface and trigger control to achieve fine lines or broader coverage.

Figure 3: Close-up of the gravity feed cup and trigger.

4. Maintenance

Proper cleaning and maintenance are crucial for the longevity and performance of your airbrush.

1. Flushing: After each use, empty any remaining paint from the color cup. Add airbrush cleaner or appropriate solvent for your paint type, then spray through until clear. Repeat as necessary.
2. Nozzle Cleaning: The Patriot features a self-centering nozzle design for easy maintenance. The needle tip is exposed, which facilitates cleaning off dried paint. Use a soft brush or a moist sponge to gently clear any paint buildup on the needle and nozzle.
3. Needle Removal: The patented easy access needle removal system allows for quick and thorough cleaning of the needle. Carefully remove the handle and needle chuck to extract the needle. Clean the needle with a soft cloth and appropriate cleaner. Reinsert carefully to avoid bending the tip.
4. Deep Cleaning: Periodically disassemble the airbrush for a more thorough cleaning of all components. Refer to the included diagram for component identification.

Figure 4: Rear view showing the needle chuck and handle for easy needle access.

5. Troubleshooting

Here are common issues and their potential solutions:

• No Paint Flow: Check if the needle is fully retracted, paint is properly thinned, and the nozzle is clear of clogs. Ensure the air pressure is adequate.
• Splattering: This can be caused by paint that is too thick, insufficient air pressure, or a damaged needle tip. Clean the nozzle and needle, adjust paint consistency, or increase air pressure.
• Dry Tip: Paint drying on the needle tip can cause inconsistent spray. Regularly wipe the needle tip with a moist cloth or brush during use. The exposed needle design of the Patriot facilitates this.
• Air Leaks: Check all connections for tightness. Ensure the nozzle and head assembly are securely seated.

6. Specifications

Figure 5: Airbrush dimensions.

7. Warranty and Support

Warranty Description: Your Badger airbrush is warranted against all manufacturing defects of material and/or factory workmanship origin for a period of one year from the date of purchase. Any part or material that becomes defective or is worn so as to not be usable within one year of purchase will be repaired or replaced at Badger Air-Brush Co.'s discretion and expense.

Furthermore, your Badger airbrush has a lifetime warranty for any necessary factory labor. After the first year, the only cost of factory repair will be the cost of shipping to the factory and repair-related parts. These warranties do not cover damage caused by negligence, accidents, misuse, or units that have been abused or altered in any way. The PTFE needle bearing has a lifetime warranty and, if ever necessary, will be replaced at the factory without cost, except for the shipment cost to the factory, to the airbrush owner.

For support or warranty claims, please contact Badger Air-Brush Co. directly.