Sandblaster Questions

2kids&atorch · #1 2013-01-06, 10:17am

Hi all, I'm considering buying a sandblaster for etching beads. Two questions: 1) is there and advantage to the pencil style blasting unit? I see that the pencil style unit allows for more precision with the blasting media, but I'm not sure if that is necessary when the target is so small.
2) Do I have to purchase a separate air compressor for a benchtop blaster? I can't tell if the blaster has an internal compressor or if I have to attach it to an outside compressor.

Any help with this would be greatly appreciated!
Thanks

houptdavid · #2 2013-01-06, 10:38am

If you are talking the one from Rio Grande, YES you need a compressor
Harbor freight is cheaper and you need a compressor for that also

In addition you are going to need a large shop vac or dust collector

Anne Londez · #3 2013-01-06, 2:16pm

You do need a compressor, usually the sandblasters units are only the blasting cabin itself. If you have the option, choose one that is as silent as possible, at least if you have to use it indoors. I'm lucky that I have a closet I can put the compressor in because I chose a cheap one and it's so noisy I could never use it if someone else is in the studio.

2kids&atorch · #4 2013-01-07, 9:17am

Thanks guys, those answers helped me a lot with deciding what to buy. Especially the suggestion about harbor freight. That will save me $80.
Cheerio!