0,3 mm Replacement Needle (for Innovator, Profinish & Easyair)

Vallejo: a replacement needle for the 0.3 mm fitting

The more versatile of the two sizes that Vallejo offers for its airbrushes. The needle governs how much paint passes out: its tip together with the nozzle forms a conical gap, and the further the needle is drawn back, the wider the line you get. Once the tip is damaged, this regulation stops being smooth and the paint is metered in steps, which shows on the model at once. It pays to look the needle over, then, before you start hunting for a fault in the compressor or in the thinning of the paint.

Typical signs of wear

• The line runs off to one side
• A droplet shoots out at the start of a stroke
• The trigger returns jerkily or binds
• The coat stays uneven even after cleaning
• Paint drips toward the handle

Service life and handling

In ordinary modeling use the needle lasts a long time, provided it is handled considerately. What harms it most is dried paint that someone tries to scrape off, and pushing it forwards through the nozzle. The second common mistake is setting the airbrush down on the desk tip first; a small knock is enough and the tip is thrown off for good. After you finish spraying, withdraw it, wipe it with a soft cloth from the handle toward the tip and put it back. Residue in the body of the airbrush will be dissolved by a cleaner meant for the type of paint used.

Who the part is for

The replacement is worth it for anyone who uses an airbrush as their main tool and does not want to send the whole airbrush for service, or buy a new one, because of a single bent tip. Anyone who paints regularly will appreciate stowing a spare straight into the case with the airbrush and carrying on without a break if there is a mishap.