The use of pistols

This is an article for users who are going to get to grips with HVLP paint spray guns for the first time. It is not a question here of painting or handling the tool, but rather of using a paint gun, putting it into service, making the various adjustments.

The gun is a metal body component, with the handle, trigger and nozzle, and the unscrewable cup on top. We can notice 3 buttons or adjustment knobs located at the back, below and on the side.
Before starting to use it, we check the different settings and make sure that all the parts are well tight. To practice spraying and adjust settings, water or thinner can be used.

Settings for using a paint gun

1 – Jet adjustment : this button, usually placed on the side, is used to modulate the shape of the spray jet : by tightening it, it can be adjusted to a peak, and by unscrewing it, a flat jet shape is obtained. The shape of the jet is generally chosen according to the size of the part to be painted.

2 – The needle adjustment wheel : it allows you to reduce the range of movement of the trigger : This is not often used, you may need it to reduce the flow of paint to make very thin layers.

3 – Air flow adjustment button : this allows you to open or close the air supply, like a regulator. It is practical because it is easily and quickly adjusted with the gun in hand.

Knowing how to use a spray gun also means knowing it well by being able to completely dismantle it and reassemble it. This, we necessarily learn during cleaning : The whole gun is removable and it is usually delivered with a simple dismantling and cleaning kit.

When you have a spraying problem and you have a good, well-diluted mixture, then you have to disassemble, clean and reassemble your gun, often that solves the problem !

Cleaning the gun

You can use body thinner and especially all-purpose cleaner to dissolve paint residue. The various parts and the ducts are brushed with the gun brushes. You can also use compressed air with a blower to clean narrow ducts or use an ultra sonic cleaner.

What not to do with your gun

If not dropped, a spray gun can last a very long time!
Do not insert any hard object into the nozzle passage.
Do not allow the paint to dry, and take care to clean immediately after use.
Always leave some thinner in the cup when not in use.
Avoid using a spray gun with oil-based paints. water and solvent based paints.

Types of paint guns