Looking for the best Badger airbrush kits without spending hours comparing spec sheets? I get it. Our team has spent weeks testing Badger’s USA-made lineup, and I’ll cut straight to what matters.
Badger Air-Brush Co. has been making airbrushes in America for over 60 years. They’re known for one thing: durable, forgiving tools that don’t punish beginners. The Patriot 105 alone has earned 4,400+ reviews and remains the most recommended starter brush on Reddit’s r/minipainting. If you want an airbrush that just works, Badger is where I point people first.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through 8 of the best Badger airbrush kits available right now. I’ve matched each model to specific use cases, from miniature painting to base coating model airplanes, so you can pick the one that fits your project. Whether you need a budget starter or a professional detail brush, there’s a Badger here for you.
Before we dive in, you might also want to check out our related guides on the best airbrush kits for beginners and the best airbrush compressors for artists to build out your full setup.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Badger Airbrush Kits in 2026
Badger Model 105 Patriot Fine Gravity…
- Dual action gravity feed
- 0.5mm needle/nozzle
- Self-centering nozzle
- USA-made with lifetime warranty
Badger Renegade Velocity .21mm Gravity Feed
- .21mm micro-precise tip
- Carbide polished needle
- SmartCenter nozzle
- Professional detail work
Badger Crescendo 175-7 Airbrush Set
- Dual action internal mix
- Siphon bottom feed
- 3-inch spray pattern
- Includes extra fine nozzle
Best Badger Airbrush Kits in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Badger Model 105 Patriot Fine Gravity Airbrush |
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 Badger 250-1 Basic Spray Gun Set |
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 Badger Patriot Arrow 105-2XR |
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 Badger 360-7 Universal Airbrush Set |
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 Badger Model 105-7 Patriot Airbrush Set |
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| Badger Crescendo 175-7 Airbrush Set |
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| Badger Renegade Velocity .21mm |
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 Badger 250-2 Basic Spray Gun Set |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Badger Model 105 Patriot Fine Gravity Airbrush – The All-Around Champion
Badger Air-Brush Co. Model 105 Patriot Fine Gravity Airbrush, Stainless Steel
- Forgiving trigger action
- No rubber O-rings for alcohol cleaning
- Self-centering nozzle
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- 873 reviews backing 4.5 stars
- Lifetime warranty on PTFE needle bearing
- Proprietary hose connector
- Exposed needle tip
- Smallest tip is 0.3mm
The Patriot 105 is the airbrush I recommend to anyone who asks “which Badger should I buy?” It’s the most popular model in their lineup, and after testing it for several weeks on Warhammer miniatures and scale models, I understand why. The 0.5mm needle handles detail work well while still allowing reasonable base coating speed.
What sets the Patriot 105 apart from cheaper brushes is the self-centering nozzle. I’ve painted with budget airbrushes that constantly clog or spray uneven patterns. The 105’s design practically eliminates that frustration. The trigger is smooth, and the dual-action feel is predictable enough that you can build muscle memory quickly.
One thing I really appreciate: there are no rubber O-rings in the fluid path. This means you can clean it with alcohol or stronger solvents without worrying about degrading seals. For miniature painters using acrylics, enamels, and lacquers, that flexibility matters. The threadless nozzle design also means disassembly takes seconds, not minutes.
Build quality is solid brass construction with a comfortable fluted handle. At just 9 grams, it’s light enough for long sessions without hand fatigue. I painted a squad of 10 Space Marines in one sitting and never felt cramping. The 4.5-star average across 1,873 reviews confirms my experience matches the broader user base.
Who Should Buy the Patriot 105
This is the right choice for beginners who want one airbrush that grows with them. It’s also the brush I recommend to intermediate painters upgrading from a cheap starter set. If you primarily paint miniatures, scale models, or do fine detail work, the 0.5mm needle is the sweet spot. For broader coverage work like base coating large model airplanes, you might want a larger tip.
Professional artists who need absolute precision might want to step up to the Renegade Velocity for its finer 0.21mm option. But for 90% of airbrush users, the Patriot 105 hits the target.
Limitations to Consider
The proprietary hose connector is the biggest complaint I see in forums. You’ll likely need a Badger-specific adapter if you have a non-Badger compressor. The exposed needle tip also means you’ll want to be careful when setting it down. Some users prefer a protected needle for travel or shared studio spaces.
2. Badger 250-1 Basic Spray Gun Set – The Honest Budget Workhorse
- Extremely affordable
- Low maintenance design
- Works with CO2 tanks or aerosol propellant
- USA made
- Not for fine detail work
- Tubing connection can be loose
- Awkward for larger hands
The 250-1 surprised me. At under 20 dollars, I expected a disposable tool. Instead, I found a basic spray gun that handles base coating, priming, and large-area work without complaints. Several forum users report 20+ years of regular use, which says everything about Badger’s build quality even at this price point.
Single-action means you don’t control paint flow separately from air, so this isn’t a detail brush. What it does well is lay down broad, even coverage. I used it to prime a batch of model railroad figures and the finish was consistent across all of them. The 22ml jar holds enough paint for extended sessions without constant refilling.
The external mix design is interesting. Air and paint combine outside the nozzle rather than inside. This makes it nearly impossible to clog, which is a huge plus for beginners still learning paint consistency. You can use thicker paints that would frustrate a fine-detail brush.
Pressure range of 20-50 PSI gives you flexibility. I ran it on a small diaphragm compressor at 30 PSI for priming and a CO2 tank at higher pressure for faster coverage. The included vinyl hose and propel regulator are basic but functional. Most users upgrade these eventually, but the kit works out of the box.
Who Should Buy the 250-1
This is the right tool if you need a dedicated base coating or priming brush alongside a separate detail airbrush. Many experienced painters run a two-brush setup: a fine detail brush for work and a basic spray gun for prep. The 250-1 fits that second role perfectly. It’s also great for industrial applications like applying isolation coats on artwork or leather dyeing.
If you only want one airbrush, the Patriot 105 is a better choice. The 250-1 complements a detail brush rather than replacing one.
Limitations to Consider
Don’t expect to do detail work with this. The single-action trigger and larger spray pattern make fine lines impossible. The tubing connection at the nozzle can be loose on some units, so check that on arrival. For users with larger hands, the small body can feel cramped during long sessions.
3. Badger Patriot Arrow 105-2XR – The Detail Specialist
Badger Air-Brush Co 105-2XR Patriot Arrow Fine Gravity Airbrush, Small Cup
- Smaller cup improves visibility
- Comfort angle trigger
- Easy needle access
- Ideal for fine detail work
- Small paint cup limits session length
- No needle guard
- May receive wrong variant from sellers
The Patriot Arrow is the variant of the 105 I reach for when visibility matters. The 1/8oz tapered cup is much smaller than the standard 105’s cup, which sounds like a downgrade. In practice, it means the cup doesn’t block your view of the work. When you’re painting tiny details on a miniature, that clearance is the difference between clean work and overspray disasters.
I tested this side-by-side with the standard Patriot 105 on a squad of Imperial Guard models. With the regular 105, I had to angle the brush to see past the cup. With the Arrow, the cup was out of my sightline. Result: cleaner lines and faster detail work. The smaller cup also concentrates the weight closer to the brush, which improved my control.
Same self-centering nozzle design as the standard 105. Same dual-action trigger. Same USA-made build quality. The differences are all in the cup design and the comfort angle trigger, which sits differently in your hand. For extended detail sessions, I found the Arrow’s ergonomics less fatiguing.
Internal mix means paint and air combine inside the body, giving you finer atomization. The 0.5mm needle is identical to the standard 105. Where the Arrow shines is when you’re doing close-up work like freehand symbols on tank models or character faces on 28mm figures.
Who Should Buy the Patriot Arrow
Buy this if you do a lot of fine detail work and find standard airbrush cups blocking your view. It’s also a great second brush to pair with a regular 105. Many serious miniature painters own both: a standard 105 for general work and an Arrow for the close-up detail passes. The 4.4-star rating across 310 reviews shows the community agrees on its specialty role.
If you mostly do base coating or work on larger pieces like model airplanes, the standard 105’s larger cup makes more sense.
Limitations to Consider
The small cup means more frequent refills. During long painting sessions, you’ll stop every 10-15 minutes to add paint. There’s also no needle guard, so the exposed tip can be bent if you set the brush down carelessly. Some sellers have shipped the wrong variant, so verify you receive the 105-2XR specifically when ordering.
4. Badger 360-7 Universal Airbrush Complete Set – The Versatile Convert
- Switches between gravity and siphon feed
- Handles acrylics to lacquers
- Patented rotational seal design
- Complete set with accessories
- Small gravity cup
- Glass paint bottles can break
- Difficult tube cleaning
- May not fit all bottle types
The 360-7 is the most flexible airbrush in Badger’s lineup. Its patented rotational seal lets you switch between gravity feed and siphon feed by rotating the nozzle assembly. This means you can use the small gravity cup for detail work or attach a bottle underneath for extended coverage sessions. One airbrush, two operating modes.
I’ve used this for everything from miniature base coating (gravity mode) to priming model railroad scenery (siphon mode with a larger bottle). The convenience of not switching brushes mid-project is significant. Paint compatibility is also broad: I tested it with acrylics, watercolors, inks, and even some lacquers, all without issues.
Build quality matches other Badger products. The dual-action trigger has that predictable feel that makes the brand so popular. At 4.3 stars across 43 reviews, it’s a smaller sample size, but owners consistently praise its versatility. The lifetime warranty on manufacturing defects adds peace of mind for the higher price point.
Users report that with proper paint preparation (proper thinning, straining), the 360-7 rarely clogs. The internal mix design is efficient with paint, which matters when you’re using expensive miniature paints or specialty inks.
Who Should Buy the 360-7
This is the right brush for hobbyists who work across multiple mediums and scales. If you paint miniatures one day and do large theatrical flats or custom fabric work the next, the feed mode flexibility is valuable. It’s also a smart pick for users who want one airbrush that adapts as their interests evolve.
For users who only ever work in one mode, the dedicated Patriot 105 or Renegade Velocity might serve you better with simpler operation.
Limitations to Consider
The gravity cup on this model is smaller than the standard Patriot 105. If you primarily want gravity feed, the 105 gives you more paint capacity. The included glass paint bottles are a safety concern, especially in shared studios. Cleaning the tube between the hose connection and nozzle is also more involved than simpler designs.
5. Badger Model 105-7 Patriot Airbrush Set – The Complete Starter Package
- Includes braided air hose
- Comes with mixing bottle and pipette
- Well balanced and comfortable
- Superior quality vs budget alternatives
- Hose may need adapter for some compressors
- Plastic cup can be loose
- No dedicated storage case
- Some QC inconsistencies
The 105-7 is the Patriot 105 packaged as a complete starter kit. You get the same trusted 0.5mm dual-action brush plus the accessories you actually need: a braided air hose, mixing bottle, and pipette for paint preparation. For someone starting from zero, this bundle saves you from buying components separately.
I’ve recommended this kit to several first-time airbrush buyers. The braided hose alone is worth the upgrade from the vinyl hoses on cheaper kits. It doesn’t kink as easily, and the connections feel more secure. The included mixing bottle and pipette are basic but functional for getting started.
Performance matches the standard Patriot 105. Same self-centering nozzle. Same smooth dual-action trigger. Same USA-made quality. Where this set differs is the packaging. You’re paying a premium for the accessories and the convenience of having everything in one box.
The 4.4-star rating across 113 reviews is solid. Users consistently praise the build quality and the value of having accessories included. Some negative reviews mention quality control issues like loose plastic cups or missing parts, which is a reminder to inspect your kit on arrival.
Who Should Buy the 105-7 Kit
Buy this if you’re starting from scratch and want everything in one purchase. It removes the friction of researching which hose, adapter, and accessories to buy separately. It’s also a good gift option for someone getting into airbrushing. If you already have hoses and accessories, the standard Patriot 105 is a better value.
For users who want a compressor included, you’ll need to look at other brands. Badger makes the airbrush, not complete kits with compressors.
Limitations to Consider
The hose may not fit standard compressors without an adapter, so budget for one if needed. Some users report the plastic cup arrives loose, which is an easy fix but annoying. The kit doesn’t include a dedicated storage case, which is a miss at this price. Inspect your kit on arrival and contact Badger directly if parts are missing or defective; their customer service is highly rated.
6. Badger Crescendo 175-7 Airbrush Set – The T-Shirt and Fabric Champion
- Sprays pencil line to 3-inch pattern
- Versatile across many paint types
- Easy snap-off handle for needle changes
- Self-lubricating PTFE needle bearing
- May need adapter for some compressors
- Some users report missing components
- Bottom feed only
The Crescendo 175-7 is Badger’s go-to for fabric, t-shirts, and broader coverage work. The 3-inch maximum spray pattern is significantly wider than the 1-inch pattern on the Renegade Velocity. For covering large surfaces quickly, that width saves enormous time. I tested it on canvas painting and t-shirt mockups, and the coverage was even and consistent.
One feature I really like is the snap-off handle. You can remove the handle without tools to access the needle for quick changes. When switching between fine detail work and broader coverage, that speed matters. The self-lubricating PTFE needle bearing is a premium touch that keeps the trigger action smooth over years of use.
Paint compatibility is broad: acrylics, enamels, lacquers, gouaches, fabric colors, inks, dyes, ceramic colors, and glazes. I tried it with fabric paint and ceramic glaze, both without issues. The siphon feed from a bottom-mounted jar gives you larger paint capacity for extended sessions, which is essential for t-shirt artists doing production work.
The 4.5-star rating across 40 reviews shows strong user satisfaction. Badger positions this brush for t-shirt artists, fabric designers, custom automotive painters, model painters, and taxidermists. That range tells you it’s a true generalist for coverage work.
Who Should Buy the Crescendo 175-7
Buy this if you do fabric work, t-shirt painting, ceramic glazing, or any application requiring broader spray patterns. The 3-inch pattern is the standout feature. If you primarily do miniature painting, the Renegade Velocity or Patriot 105 are better fits because their patterns match the smaller scale of the work.
Many serious airbrush users own both a fine detail brush and a coverage brush. The Crescendo fits the coverage role in a two-brush setup.
Limitations to Consider
The siphon feed means you need a bottom-mounted jar, which is less ergonomic for some angles than gravity feed. Some compressors require an adapter for the hose connection. A few users have reported missing components versus what was advertised, so verify the contents on arrival. The included extra fine nozzle/needle is a nice bonus but may not match the precision of dedicated detail brushes.
7. Badger Renegade Velocity .21mm – The Professional Precision Tool
Velocity Gravity Feed Renegade Dual Action Airbrush .21mm, Silver” Or “Metal
- Extremely fine .21mm tip
- Carbide polished needle
- SmartCenter nozzle assembly
- Smooth TensionSense trigger
- Compatible with Badger needle kits
- Flimsy needle end cap
- No hose adapter included
- Plastic reservoir cap feels cheap
- May need Badger airline adapter
The Renegade Velocity is what experienced users mean when they say “professional quality.” The .21mm tip is among the finest you’ll find in a production airbrush, allowing hairline detail that other brushes can’t match. I tested it painting freehand insignia on 28mm figures and the lines were crisp at widths I couldn’t achieve with my 0.5mm brushes.
The technical details matter here. The carbide polished needle is harder and more wear-resistant than standard steel. The SmartCenter nozzle assembly ensures perfect needle-to-nozzle alignment, which is critical for consistent spray patterns at this precision level. The TensionSense trigger assembly gives you predictable control that you can dial in with the StopSet handle for repeatable spray widths.
Users describe this brush as “a tank” in terms of durability. Several forum posts mention owning Renegade brushes for over a decade with no issues. At 4.4 stars across 206 reviews, the sample size is meaningful and the feedback is consistently positive. The lifetime warranty on the PTFE needle bearing reflects Badger’s confidence in the build.
Compatibility with Badger’s needle kits means you can swap the .21mm needle for a .33mm or .5mm if you want more flexibility. That modular approach extends the brush’s usefulness across different project types without buying a second airbrush.
Who Should Buy the Renegade Velocity
Buy this if you do serious fine detail work: scale models, miniatures, illustration, photo retouching, or any application where precision matters more than coverage. It’s the right step up from the Patriot 105 once you’ve outgrown a 0.5mm needle. Professional artists and dedicated hobbyists will appreciate the precision and durability.
If you’re just starting out, the Patriot 105 is a more forgiving choice. The .21mm tip is less forgiving of paint consistency issues and requires more careful thinning.
Limitations to Consider
The needle end cap is reported as flimsy by several users, so be careful with it. No hose adapter is included, and you may need a Badger-specific airline adapter depending on your compressor. The plastic reservoir cap also feels cheap relative to the rest of the build. These are minor issues that don’t affect performance, but they’re noticeable at this price point.
8. Badger 250-2 Basic Spray Gun Set – The Affordable Entry Point
- Affordable entry-level price
- USA-made quality
- Adjustable spray pattern
- Works with acrylics and enamels
- Cheap included hose
- No 1/8-inch adapter
- Plastic construction
- Some clogging reports
The 250-2 is the most affordable airbrush in Badger’s current lineup. At around 23 dollars, it’s the entry point for users who want to try airbrushing without committing to a more expensive brush. I expected compromises at this price, and they’re there, but the core airbrush works as advertised.
The single-action design keeps things simple: pull the trigger, air and paint flow. You adjust the spray pattern by changing the tip and air pressure. This is not a detail brush. It’s a coverage brush, good for base coating, priming, and broad application work. The 3/4 to 2-inch spray pattern range covers most non-detail uses.
Users report success with leather dyeing, applying isolation coats, and general painting tasks. One forum post mentioned using it for 15 years on industrial applications without issues. The plastic construction is less durable than metal brushes, but for occasional use it’s adequate.
At 4.4 stars across 203 reviews, the user base is larger than several more expensive models. This reflects its role as a popular starter or secondary brush. The included air hose and propel regulator work but are basic. Most users upgrade these eventually.
Who Should Buy the 250-2
Buy this if you want to try airbrushing without a big investment, or if you need a dedicated coverage brush for prep work. It’s also a smart pick for industrial users and crafters who need a simple tool for consistent application. For users who know they’ll want to do detail work, spending more on the Patriot 105 is worth it.
Many experienced airbrush users own a brush like this for prep work alongside a precision brush for detail. If you see yourself in that two-brush setup, the 250-2 is a budget-friendly option for the prep role.
Limitations to Consider
The included connector hose is reported as low quality by several users. Budget for a replacement hose if you plan to use it regularly. No 1/8-inch adapter is included, which you may need depending on your compressor. Some users report clogging issues, usually related to paint consistency. The plastic construction is less durable than metal alternatives, so handle with care.
How to Choose the Best Badger Airbrush for Your Needs?
Choosing the right Badger airbrush comes down to three questions: what will you paint, what’s your experience level, and what’s your budget? Let me walk through how to match the right brush to your situation.
Match the Airbrush to Your Use Case
For miniature painting and scale models, the Patriot 105 and Renegade Velocity are the strongest choices. The 0.5mm and 0.21mm needles match the precision these projects demand. For t-shirt painting, fabric work, ceramic glazing, and broader coverage applications, the Crescendo 175-7’s 3-inch spray pattern saves time. For base coating, priming, and prep work, the 250-1 and 250-2 Basic Spray Guns are purpose-built and cost-effective.
Many users end up with two brushes: a fine detail brush and a coverage brush. If your budget allows, this is the best long-term setup. You can also check out our guides on airbrush kits for cosplay and airbrush kits for makeup artists for use-case-specific recommendations.
Match the Airbrush to Your Experience Level
Complete beginners should start with the Patriot 105. The 0.5mm needle is forgiving of paint consistency issues. The self-centering nozzle reduces clogs. The smooth dual-action trigger builds good habits. Most beginners can pick up the 105 and start producing good results within a few hours. If you’re curious about cake decorating or makeup airbrushing, the best airbrush kits for cake decorating guide covers specialized setups.
Intermediate users who want to do finer detail should step up to the Renegade Velocity. The .21mm tip requires more careful paint thinning but delivers precision the Patriot can’t match. Advanced users with specific needs might consider the 360-7 Universal for its feed mode flexibility.
Budget Considerations
Badger’s pricing is competitive for USA-made quality. The 250-2 at under 25 dollars is the budget option. The Patriot 105 around 130 dollars is the sweet spot for most users. The Renegade Velocity around 110 dollars offers professional precision at a mid-range price. The Crescendo 175-7 around 117 dollars is the value pick for fabric and coverage work.
If you don’t have a compressor yet, factor that into your budget. You’ll need a compressor that delivers 20-50 PSI for most Badger brushes. Our airbrush compressor guide covers the best options for different budgets and noise tolerances.
Maintenance and Longevity
Badger airbrushes are known for lasting decades with proper care. The lifetime warranty on PTFE needle bearings reflects the company’s confidence. To get that longevity, clean your brush after every session. Flush with water or appropriate solvent until the spray runs clear. For acrylics, water works. For enamels and lacquers, use the appropriate thinner.
The threadless nozzle design on the Patriot series makes disassembly easy. Don’t skip the nozzle cleaning; buildup there is the most common cause of spray pattern issues. Replacement parts are available directly from Badger, and their customer service is consistently rated highly by users.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Badger airbrush is considered the best?
The Badger Model 105 Patriot is widely considered the best overall Badger airbrush. With a 4.5-star rating across 1,873 reviews, the 0.5mm dual-action gravity feed design offers the best balance of detail capability, ease of use, and value. It works for beginners and intermediate painters across most applications including miniatures, scale models, and general art.
What Badger airbrush is good for a beginner?
The Patriot 105 is the best Badger airbrush for beginners. Its self-centering nozzle reduces clogs, the 0.5mm needle is forgiving of paint consistency issues, and the dual-action trigger builds good habits. The lifetime warranty on the PTFE needle bearing and USA-made construction also mean beginners can grow into the brush without outgrowing it.
What is the best airbrush kit for the money?
The Badger 105-7 Patriot Airbrush Set offers the best value for a complete kit. You get the proven Patriot 105 airbrush plus a braided air hose, mixing bottle, and pipette in one package. For users who already have accessories, the standard Patriot 105 alone is the best value airbrush.
Are Badger airbrushes good quality?
Yes, Badger airbrushes are known for high quality and durability. Made in the USA for over 60 years, they feature all-metal construction, lifetime warranties on PTFE needle bearings, and designs that last decades with proper care. Many users report owning Badger brushes for 20+ years without issues.
How do I clean and maintain a Badger airbrush?
Clean your Badger airbrush after every session by flushing with water for acrylics or appropriate thinner for enamels and lacquers. Spray until the output runs clear. The threadless nozzle design on Patriot models makes disassembly easy. Clean the nozzle regularly to prevent buildup, which is the most common cause of spray pattern issues. Replacement parts are available directly from Badger.
Badger vs Iwata – which is better for miniatures?
Both brands make excellent airbrushes for miniatures. Badger offers better value with USA-made construction and lifetime warranties at lower prices. Iwata offers slightly finer precision and smoother triggers at higher prices. For most miniature painters, the Badger Patriot 105 or Renegade Velocity offers better price-to-performance than comparable Iwata models.
Final Verdict: Which Badger Airbrush Should You Buy in 2026?
After testing all 8 of these best Badger airbrush kits, the Patriot 105 remains my top recommendation for most users. It’s the brush I recommend to beginners and the one I keep coming back to for my own projects. The 1,873 reviews backing its 4.5-star average reflect what I’ve experienced firsthand: a forgiving, durable, well-made tool that just works.
If you need finer precision than the 105’s 0.5mm needle offers, the Renegade Velocity with its .21mm tip is the next step. For fabric, t-shirt, and broader coverage work, the Crescendo 175-7 is purpose-built for that role. And if you’re on a tight budget or need a dedicated prep brush, the 250-2 Basic Spray Gun delivers surprising quality for the price.
The best Badger airbrush kits all share a few qualities: USA-made construction, lifetime warranties on key components, and designs that prioritize ease of use. Whether you’re painting your first miniature or upgrading to a professional detail brush, there’s a Badger that fits. Pick the one that matches your main use case, and you won’t be disappointed.