Which air compressor

[Darryn Achall]

Great info here- thanks.
What are your thoughts on the smallest/cheapest compressor you can go with and still be happy? I’m thinking for clearing out occasional hollow forms and general turning needs.
I see affordable 3 & 6 gal pancakes, will those do what we need or lack something?
Thanks!

I have been running the same cheap 3-gallon pancake for more than 10 years. Works great as long as I remember to drain the tank every couple of months. I use it for blowing out hollow forms and running an NSK Presto carver. Most pancakes are very loud. Am praying that this old thing quits soon so I can justify getting a quieter unit. Most likely California Air Tools.

 

[Adrian Wilson]

Doesn't tick the 'quiet' box, but I love my Rolair VT25BIG. It's only 5+ gallon, but it is continuous duty rated, unlike most other smaller compressors (I think all Rolairs are) so you don't have to worry about running it too long. Handles my shop needs, but still portable. https://www.rolair.com/air-compressors/hand-carry-air-compressors/vt25big