Gravity or Suction Spray Paint Systems?

[Lionelgee]

Hello All,

I am thinking of making the step up from using pre-mix aerosol spray paint tins to the real McKoy. From a quick look online there seem to be two main types: gravity fed, which has the paint pot above the spray gun nozzle; and suction/siphon, that has the paint pot below the spray gun nozzle.

I already have a compressor I have a range of pneumatic mechanic's tools - just not a spray paint gun yet.

I would be mostly painting things like chassis and I might have a go at panel painting. I am a novice and do not intend doing spray painting for a living.

I also noticed that some spray systems vary in price from $34 for a kit; to well over $500, just for the hand piece alone.

What are the main differences and applications between gravity and suction - is one more advantageous than the other?

Is one type more flexible than the other and better suited to smaller - occasional jobs?

Is High Volume Low Pressure really the duck's guts like some of the advertising material suggests?

What are the brands that people would recommend for each type gravity/suction?

What sort of cost would get decent quality system?

You know a spray gun where I am not encouraged to practice my swearing due to shoddy results directly attributed to tools with poor adjustments or weak componentry, awkward to hold. I have to compensate for my own lack of ability after all.

Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

Kind Regards
Lionel