AB-116 Airbrush

Millimetre Precision with the AB-116 Double Action Airbrush

The AB-116 airbrush (ref. CH17056) is a double action tool designed for those who require total control over the stroke and amount of paint. With a 0.2 mm nozzle, it allows for very fine lines and delicate gradients, which is essential in miniatures, figures, static models, dioramas, and slot car bodies.

Technical Features

• Type: Double action (airflow and paint amount are controlled independently with the same trigger)
• Nozzle diameter: 0.2 mm
• Working pressure: 15 – 30 psi
• Cup capacity: 17 – 22 cc
• Total length: 145 mm

Double Action: The Standard for Detail Work

In a double action airbrush, pressing the trigger down regulates the air, while pulling it back opens the paint flow. This combination in a single movement allows the modeller to vary the stroke thickness on the fly without lifting the airbrush from the piece. It is the preferred system in competition modelling and figure painting, where gradients and shading subtlety make a difference.

The 0.2 mm nozzle is at the finer end of the spectrum: ideal for very precise camouflage, panel edges, shading on small scale miniatures, or decorating slot car bodies. For broad background work or priming, larger nozzles are typically used, making the AB-116 particularly well-suited as a second detail airbrush or as the main tool when high precision work is required.

Applications in the Hobby

• Slot: Touch-up and customization of bodies, airbrushing liveries and race numbers with fine strokes.
• Static Models: Camouflages, pre-shading, filters, and weathering effects on plastic or resin.
• Figures and Dioramas: Colour transitions, zenithal shading, and skin finishes on miniatures.

Compatibility with Paints

The 0.2 mm nozzle works well with well-thinned paints. Common references in the hobby — Vallejo, Kaleido, Tamiya, or Ammo — perform correctly with this diameter as long as the dilution proportions recommended by each manufacturer are respected. Acrylic paints with a high pigment load may require a more generous dilution to avoid clogging the nozzle.

Usage and Maintenance Tips

• Work at a pressure of between 15 and 25 psi for detail strokes; increase to 30 psi if you need more fluidity or are working with denser paints.
• Flush the airbrush with water or specific thinner between colour changes to avoid unwanted mixing.
• After each session, disassemble the needle and nozzle for a thorough cleaning. A 0.2 mm nozzle clogs easily if not cared for.
• Store the needle protected: at this diameter, a bent tip directly affects the quality of the stroke.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a single action and a double action airbrush?

In a single action airbrush, the trigger only controls the air, and the amount of paint is regulated with an external screw; the stroke is more uniform but less flexible. In a double action airbrush like the AB-116, a single trigger regulates both variables simultaneously, providing much more creative control on the fly, although it requires a bit more initial practice.

Is the 0.2 mm nozzle suitable for beginners?

It is functional for beginners who already have basic knowledge of thinning and maintaining the airbrush. However, at 0.2 mm, the margin for error with poorly thinned paints is small: it clogs quickly. If you are starting, combine it with good cleaning and thinning practices, and the learning curve is perfectly manageable.

What compressor do I need to use the AB-116?

Any compressor that delivers a stable 15 to 30 psi with a tank is more than sufficient. A compressor with a pressure regulator and gauge makes fine adjustments much easier.

Can I use the AB-116 with enamel or lacquer paints, or only with acrylics?

The airbrush itself is compatible with different types of paint as long as the appropriate thinner is used for each. With enamels and lacquers, ensure to clean with the corresponding thinner immediately after each session to protect the internal seals.

How much capacity do the 17-22 cc offer?

It is a medium-small cup, more than sufficient for detail and touch-up work. For long sessions of backgrounds or priming, you may need to refill; for precision painting on miniatures or slot car bodies, the capacity is comfortable.

The AB-116 double-action airbrush with a 0.2 mm nozzle is a precision tool for scale modelling, slot car bodywork painting, miniature figures and diorama detailing. Working at 15–30 psi with a 17–22 cc cup capacity and a total length of 145 mm, it delivers fine-line control for camouflage patterns, pre-shading and custom liveries. Compatible with leading hobby paint brands when properly thinned. Ref. CH17056.