Fortress Ultra Quiet 1 Gallon Air Compressor Review - My New Favorite Airbrush Compressor!

[@Adoratek]

Fantastic compressor. Here is a formula for a better cycle time adjustment for airbrushing: Adjust the cut-in/cut-out screw counter-clockwise until you have a cut-in of 50 lbs... Then, adjust the cut-out screw clockwise until it has a cut-out pressure of 100 lbs. The results... I can run a .8mm trigger style airbrush at 30 psi non-stop for 45 sec. before cut-in, and recovery is 48 seconds to cut-out at 100 lbs. (and yes I still had the trigger held down during the recovery stage). The benefit... This means that you are only running your compressor at a 50% duty ratio, and because you are not charging all the way to 135 lb. factory setting, the compressor works less, runs cooler, runs quieter, and lives much, much longer life.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Russell, that is great information. Thanks for sharing that. That will be very helpful not only to me but also to other viewers as well. Thanks.

[@Hillbillyable1]

Good review Dan, I have the slightly larger two gallon version with two quick disconnects. At first I couldn't figure how I was getting moisture in my spray. I had a regulator/moisture trap coming right out of the tank. W Leon Kennedy told me that that was doing nothing by not giving the warm air time to cool and turn to water. He said to use a slinky hose to a manifold then run my airbrush hose from there. He was right. No more moisture problems. Other than the slight air leak at the quick disconnect and running more than I would like I love the set up I have now. I have room mates and they don't notice it or mind it. Only time they hear it is when I empty the air from the tank when finished. Thank you for all of your videos.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Hillbilly, very cool thanks for sharing and giving the video a look.

[@cjadams7434]

can you send links?

[@TheAIRspace]

Hey Buddy scrolling through and saw this. Glad that worked out for you!

[@billwiley7216]

I bought one of the 2 gallon models 1.2 hp and 2.1 cfm @135 psi last year from Harbor Freight on sale for $139 and have been totally satisfied with it both in performance and for its quiet operation compared to most units. One thing few people ever mention which I feel is a big plus is on the 2 gallon model the air tanks are aluminum rather than steel so the tanks will not start rusting internally from any type of moisture build up. I am not sure if the one gallon model tank is aluminum or not as on that model they do not seem to advertise that as a feature where they do advertise it on the 2 gal. model. I compared both the smaller 1 gallon unit and the larger more powerful 2 gallon unit and for the small increase in price I opted for the bigger one although for airbrushing either one are more than ample and nice units! I just thought that the increase from the .7 cfm rating and the .5 horsepower rating was nice for the extra headroom for other possible uses. Although the larger one is 3db louder it is still at a very tolerable noise level. I have mine set up where I basically leave the compressor mounted regulator turned wide open connected to a water separator at the compressor and use a coiled polyurethane air hose to run up to another pressure regulator/water separator mounted on my bench and connect my air brush hose there and it is mounted within easy reach of my airbrush station. This is where I set my airbrush pressure and with the two water separators and the coiled air hose running in an uphill configuration moisture or water causing a paint splatter and affecting or possibly ruining ruining a paint project is basically never even thought of. And I do drain my compressor after every days sessions are completed as well. I would have no second thoughts about recommending one of the Fortress compressors to anyone for air brush use. They actually have some things better designed and more protected than another highly recommended air brush compressor brand for less money and I would be willing to bet the actual compressor motor for the two brands are made in the same Chinese factory as they look and appear to be identical. Nice video!

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Bill, thank you for sharing that will be very helpful for other viewers. Thanks for watching. Much appreciated.

[@th.981]

3 June 24 bought my 1 gal compressor Fortress ultra quiet and it is. It's for small jobs but I was amazed on how quiet it is. It runs well and refills quick.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Thanks for the comment, TH. I appreciate it, and thanks for watching.

[@unklbuk1]

I recently just bought the 2 gallon model. This air compressor is the best.

[@justinsane332]

they are nice. i got the two as well, and it fills really fast. surprisingly so

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Thank you for sharing your experience. And I'm glad you found some help with Bill Kennedy's videos. I watch Bill all the time. Big fan here. Thanks for watching.

[@TheAIRspace]

I catch you too Dan :) I have this one sitting. waiting for me to do something with it.. im sooo behind. one of the things I was going to do this week is talk about compressors!

[@johnnygonzales3211]

I was getting the Viair for my Motor Home but now I'm getting this one.

[@trevorwesterdahl6245]

Bought this compressor because of reviews like yours. Thank you. Very happy. Quiet, low price, and I use it for more than airbrushing. Mine seems to fill faster, maybe I got lucky. :)

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Trevor, good to hear, enjoy. Thanks for watching, much appreciated.

[@johnf285]

Are you still happy with it over a year later?

[@trevorwesterdahl6245]

@John F Yes, very happy. No issues. It's not designed for shop tools that need large volumes of air, but it works perfectly for airbrushing, filling tires, etc. I'm very happy with it.

[@a-zonearmstrong8839]

I’ve had mine for about a month now and no issues! Also liked the fact that for like an additional $25 bucks, I got a 27 month no-questions-asked replacement warranty too!

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

A-Zone, thanks for sharing your experience and thanks for watching.

[@FitzSignsMurals]

I believe you may have just sold me my first compressor, thanks for taking the time to review.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Cool. Thanks for the comment and for watching.

[@EarfulOfTunes]

Thanks for the excellent review. I've been looking for a quiet air compressor - the one I have is outrageously loud - but have been skeptical to the "quiet" claims by manufacturers. Nice to actually hear one ... and it sounds like something I could actually use in the workroom, not have to lug it out to the driveway (as I have to do now). Could this compressor run a nail gun? I'm not putting shingles on a roof - bam, bam, bam! - just nailing woodworking projects.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Bill, I just picked up the 2 gallon on sale and gave the 1 gallon to my uncle. Either one is a good choice. Going to have a review on the 2 gallon soon. Same Compressor just longer cycle times. Thanks for the comment and watching.

[@spin-xdesignstackle6765]

Thank you so much for making this video, I have been stressing & researching what compressors would be best for my business. So thank you for this video. I used your link & bought the 2 GAL. I will be a regular on your videos 🎣

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Spin-X, I am very happy you found the video helpful. love to hear the positive feed back on my videos, I really appreciate it. Thanks for using the link and thanks for watching.

[@rogerwachal3718]

I bought one a couple of days ago . I love it too light, super quiet

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Roger, thanks for sharing your experience. And thanks for watching.

[@Your_Average_Joe.]

First and foremost thank you for the video. I'm new to airbrushing, and I would like to invest in this compressor, but I'm not sure what fittings I need as well as a moisture trap. The airbrush that I purchased is the use IWATA HP-CS.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Veteran, first, thank you for your service and welcome to the awesome world of airbrush. The only fitting you will need is a 1/4 Inch NPT Air Compressor Quick Connect. Now you may need an 1/8 inch male to a 1/4" female and then to the 1/4 inch quick connect, depending on your hose. Hope this helps and thank you for watching. Just a heads up, I have a review of the 2 gallon compressor today. Same great compressor just a little bigger and longer cycle times.

[@Your_Average_Joe.]

@@TheAirbrushGarage thank you!

[@pos2744]

To Airbrush T shirts, is it safe to stay with the 1gal?

[@farkinarkin5099]

Looking at a Metabo quiet compressor (1 gal) for airbrushing. The specs are similar so 1 min @ 30psi is reasonable. Time to make a purchase. Thanks.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Now I need to look up a Metabo. lol I am glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for watching.

[@Dnasty1]

I've been asking everywhere but do you know if these smaller compressors made by fortress are the same as the making mac 100-300 series? They look identical.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Sorry Adam, I do not.

[@drydreams8513]

I’m running a framing gun with it and it works fine I was worried about it not handling it but now everybody is jealous and boiling with hate and envy at work.they laughed at me the first day I showed up with it pointing at it and at me saying I was a fool but they have nothing to say now days

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Cool! I'm glad you like it. Thanks for dropping me a comment, and thanks for watching.

[@Cin0s3]

Nice compressor, much quieter than the one that I use but I dont find the noise bothers me that much when I have it and the booth fan running. If mine were to fail I would definitely look into one of these.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Jason, thanks for the comment and watching. Much appreciated.

[@JG0929]

I see that Harbor Freight has what appears to be the same compressor. It with a two gallon tank. It says it is only 1db louder but ready if the specs are the same. Would this be a worthwhile upgrade? Great videos!

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Joe, Yes! Please check out my review on the 2 gallon. The 2 gallon is the one I use in the garage every day. I also got mine at Harbor Freight. I am also an Inside Track Member at H. F. They go on sale for members quite often. Think I saved like $30. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@mauror.6307]

Hey Sir, thanks for your video, I have exaclty the same compressor model, but the air outlet seems not compatible with the airbrush´s hose, not sure cus I think is the standart and the same you use in this video, the only problem is I have no idea how to conect, do you have some video or something like so were I can see how you conect your hose to your compressor please?, will be super helpfull to me

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Mauro, heritage s a link to the compressor fittings amzn.to/3UUmNwH and here is a link to the hose fitting if needed amzn.to/3Bw7KCk some airbrush hoses have an 1/8" on one end and a 1/4" on the other end. If it has 1/8" on both ends then you will need the adapter. Hope this helps.

[@zeroblade9800]

I have the same 1 gal unit. I've been trying to get other hobbyist pick this up but holy hell it's like pulling teeth. Everyone is skeptical saying 57 db is loud and try to point other tanks with lower db but ignore the high pitch racket those make. I will say get it on sale and there is additional cost to consider. Pick up a quality moisture trap, quick release adapters and a digital psi reader. The gauge there was intended for tools to trying to adjust for low level psi is tough to set. All in all it shouldn't cost more than $150 with everything. In the end you'll have a much higher quality airbrush setup

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Zeroblade, I agree I use the 2 gallon for my setup. 1 gallon...2 gallon...both good and they both have a great price point. Thanks for the comment and thanks for watching.

[@TheAIRspace]

Its like fighting an uphill battle buddy. Every day I see people recommend airbrush compressors without tanks even. Or recommend airbrush compressors that cost way more than these and provide way less ;/

[@artsmodelstation9396]

I just got one but it cuts off at 125 psi and not the 135psi. Might have to return it.

[@samuelwoodruff933]

Hello, and thank you for the review. I noticed you haven't installed a moisture trap on the compressor. Do you use in-line moisture traps or don't see the need? Thanks again.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Sam, I have moisture traps at the brush. and honestly I never get water in them since I switch to the Fortress. I do run the 2 gallon but the result is the same with the one gallon. Here is a link to the video on the water traps. There is also links in the description for the traps if you are interested. Thanks, for the question and thanks for watching.

[@restoredcollectibles1900]

How does this stack against a duel piston? Also can you talk about oiless vs oil compressors. Very new sorry if this question is confusing.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

RC, my duel piston is a little quieter but as far as performance not much different. The Fortress takes regular aircompressor fittings not that you can't convert the duel piston to do the same it's just easier with the Fortress. And the Fortress has the air pressure and regulator built in which is really nice.Now if you step up to the 2 gallon Fortress the cycle times are better. Oh...and I don't know about the oil compressors never used one. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@user-gk2cg2th9h]

What kind of attachements do you need to connect a fullsize compressor to airbrushes?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Hi K. I get this question a lot so I made a short video. Here is the link. Check it out when you get a chance. kzbin.info/www/bejne/iaTOm4uHjcdmqNU

[@jamesbgreat]

Thanks for the review. How long does the tank last with your PS-290? Cheers

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

James, a little over half as long. The .5 needle moves a lot more air. Recovery time is the same. The compressor holds the psi very well.

[@justinsane332]

it really does a great job, i have the 2 gal., and it cycles but fills super quick.

[@AdamBuckmantechpad1642]

if i were to turn the motor on and use it as a air duster for cleaning a pc how long will it give me air for

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

About a minute thirty

[@DarksouIjah]

Great review. Does this one get super hot at all?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

DS, no. Runs very cool. I never get moisture in my Traps. I use the 2 gallon in my shop. It's the same as the 1 gallon just longer run time between tank recovery. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@DarksouIjah]

@@TheAirbrushGarage Ok great. Thanks for your quick response.

[@DarksouIjah]

Ohh second question. Do I need any attachments to hook up to my air brush or everything needed is included? Thanks again!

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

DS, yes here are the links to the fittings needed. This one is if your airbrush hose has 1/8" both ends amzn.to/3zY5seU The next link is to connect to the compressor. You will not need all of them it's just the way most accessory kits come amzn.to/3d7ziF5 hope this helps

[@DarksouIjah]

@@TheAirbrushGarage Thanks again for your help.

[@frizzyfades]

i need this just to use it as a duster. do i need to buy the air hose and little gun blower that goes on the tip of the hose, separately ?? if so, what nozzle size would fit

[@stuffstuffstuffyay]

Great video, helpful. Do you think this is ok for my LPH 80? I have the 1mm needle with the smaller 2 fan

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Stuff, yes, it will work and covers like the sealers. As I said in the video, I probably won't use it for that application I will use the sealers for area uniform coverage but..... never say never. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@stuffstuffstuffyay]

​@@TheAirbrushGarage I have decided (almost) on getting the Kobalt Quiet Tech 4.3-Gallon - so I can be sure it works on the fan mode :)

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

@@stuffstuffstuffyay Yes it will work. But, you want to look at is the CFM's. Look at what CFM's the guns that you want to spray are rated for and compare it to the compressor's CFM. Even if the compressor is a little under it will still work as long as you are not trying to base coat / clear coat entire cars. Kobalt is good I like their stuff but did you check out the Fortress compressors at Harbor Freight? Good bang for your buck.

[@stuffstuffstuffyay]

@@TheAirbrushGarage yes I did, but they don't seem to have a 4 gallon- the next up is a 10 gallon, and that one I won't be strong enough to get it up and down my stairs, plus it is large for my studio space. I also looked at the Stealth ones on amazon- they are 4 decibels louder

[@greyowl9295]

I ask, so a 1 gallon compressor is good enough for air brushing???

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Grey Owl, yes. I use the 2 gallon Fortress in my shop, but the one gallon works just as well, except the cycle is shorter. Tankless compressors work for airbrushing, but I don't recommend them. They run hot. The tank allows the air to cool. Most compressors marketed as airbrush compressors with a tank have around a 1 gallon tank. For a few dollars more, I recommend the 2 gallon. I do have a review on that one as well. I hope this helps.

[@stefanblackadder5236]

I need to know what adapter you used and where to get it. Thanks.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Stefan, here is a link to the hose connections. amzn.to/3S7nTov and here is a link for the airbrush hose adapter if you need it. amzn.to/3PUNTl3 Hope this helps.

[@stefanblackadder5236]

Thanks so much for your prompt reply. I just bought this today.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

@@stefanblackadder5236 good luck with it. I have my two gallon for quite some time now without any problems. Hope you find the same.

[@LT-ie8wg]

what is that block that you use to power all of your airbrushes all at once ?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

LT, it is a 4 way Splitter OPHIR Airbrush Holder Station Manifold Table Stand with 4 Splitters That Can Hold Up to 4 Airbrushes. I have a video on it check it out. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@spikelee2887]

what adapter did you use from your comprssor to the airbrush hose??

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Spike, Master Airbrush Brand 1/4" BSP Female to 1/8" BSP Male Fitting Conversion Adapter Bushing, Connector for Airbrush Hoses and Compressors www.amazon.com/dp/B002VZO0Y4/ref=cm_sw_r_awdo_navT_g_624BAQ1HD30B3QTBKDYJ.

[@jpotter2086]

Mine worked really well ... for ... 2 years.

[@rdbrik92]

Would you suggest a dedicated airbrush compressor or this one for a scale model hobbyist?

[@dancuccurullo8453]

Killerb68, I am sure it would meet you needs. What other tools besides the airbrush would you want to use with it? You may want to take a look at the 2 gallon. I have a review on that one as well. Thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@rdbrik92]

@@dancuccurullo8453 just the airbrush I have an 80 gal in my garage for anything else

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Well....lol. Then yes. A dedicated, more portable option like the one or 2 gallon definitely would be beneficial.

[@vietnamvet6474]

Can you put a Moisture Trap on it.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Vietnam Vet, absolutely. My previous compressors didn't have the pressure gauge on board so I would hook up a water trap and gauge. Since this one has a gauge on board I just use an in line water trap up at the brush. And I can say... I have never gotten water. Runs very cool. Thank you for your service, thanks for the question and watching.

[@1982pantro]

Awesome!

[@wrongdoer5053]

What connectors do you use to connect the air brush to it?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Wrongdoer, Brass NPT Plug (F)-1/4-in (see link below). So depending on what airbrush hose you have, you may need an 1/8" to 1/4" adapter. Hope this helps and thanks for watching. www.lowes.com/pd/Kobalt-Brass-NPT-Plug-F-1-4-in-Industrial/50126445

[@wrongdoer5053]

@@TheAirbrushGarage Thank you! I'm trying to create a set up like that so I can start working on some projects finally!

[@richardbuck1596]

great video thanks for the information

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

👍

[@BeeRumblin13]

Would this be good in an apartment for airbrushing?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

B Rumblin, I am asked this question a lot and the answer is yes. If you have tenants below you and it is going on a hard wood floor I recommend a small carpet or a rubber mat under it. Thank you for the question and thanks for watching.

[@BeeRumblin13]

@@TheAirbrushGarage cool. I'm on the bottom floor with carpet so it should be fine. What connector would i need to hook my hose up to it?

[@dancuccurullo8453]

@@BeeRumblin13 1/4" NPT male air hose quick pneumatic connect. If your hose has an 1/8" female you will need a 1/4" female adapter. Both of these products are available on Amazon

[@LT-ie8wg]

i use the same 1

[@alexmcgrath1567]

Will you do a video on using a pancake with conversion parts?

[@almafaul8281]

No water filter. By the time you have condensate in the tank you've got watered down paint.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

I have a trap at the brush.

[@billballou3351]

is 30 lbs of pressure normal with your airbrushing? thanks

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Bill, yes. I spray at 27 psi. 30 psi also would be fine for a gravity fed brush higher pressure for a siphon brush.

[@billballou3351]

@@TheAirbrushGarage I guess what I ment waS THE TANK PRESSURE

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

@@billballou3351 yes 30 lbs. Is normal.

[@fuze8537]

Did he mention he got it for $109 dollars ?

[@cjadams7434]

Think it will handle a .5 or .7 fan spray tip setup on a grex tritium?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

CJ, yes. It will handle any "airbrush". I have the 2 gallon in my shop. It is only about 30 dollars more. I have a video on that on as well. I had the 1 gallon first and gave it to my uncle with his first airbrush and he loves it. I like the 2 gallon just because of the longer cycle times. Hope this helps and thanks for the question and thanks for watching.

[@cjadams7434]

@@TheAirbrushGarage i do worry thet it might not be strong enough for .5 and .7 needles with fan caps though ill be spraying a bunch of createx 4050uvls as clear-coating and priming ...that stuff can be a bit thick.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Again, I would suggest the 2 gallon. The 1 gallon will do it but the cycle time would be quick. 30 psi is 30 psi no matter the compressor but you will have to stop more frequently with the 1 gallon to wait for the tank to recover.

[@cjadams7434]

@@TheAirbrushGarage i grabbed the 4 gal one and its much louder...almost 80db wtf it soooo loud

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

@@cjadams7434 CJ the 2 gallon that I have and suggested is 60 dB. Yes 80 is louder. Still much quieter than traditional compressors.if you are that unhappy with it return it for the 2 gallon.

[@BishakafaddypaintBarua]

What is the cost of Airbrush in Indian monet?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Bishkek, I'm sorry I have no idea. just saw the 2 gallon on sale for $160. I Google The exchange rate. thanks for watching.

[@AliRadaa]

is it just me or does the harbor freight website not work?

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Ali, I have no problem. I will check my link in the description. Try going directly to the website.

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Ali, I just checked my link in the description, and it is working fine.

[@OregonDARRYL]

Read the manual. You need to break it in for 30 minutes with the drain valve open...

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Darryl, thanks for sharing that information. I have been using mine for quite some time and have not had any issues. But you are correct. That's what the manual says.

[@torowazup1]

They don’t give discounts like they use to 😞

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

You have to join their inside track club. It's 40 dollars a year but well worth it if you shop at harbor freight.

[@tankprohp]

how many airbrushes are too much

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Lol. Just one more!

[@doug595959]

buyer beware just bought this and as i was screwing on the pipe with water serator on it by hand the manifold cracked this chinese pile of crap is made with the cheapest low grade material possible

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

Rust Spot, I am sorry to hear you had a bad experience with the compressor. That is the first one I heard of. Harbor Friday does offer a full replacement warranty. No sending out or waiting. They give you a new one of the shelf. I have mine for almost 3 years and I love it.

[@johnleonard974]

Ya it’s quite when it doesn’t work

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

John. Thank you for the comment. But what evidence do you have to say such a thing about a certain product? Do you have one? Has yours stop working? What compressor do you recommend?

[@BigAndTall666]

@@TheAirbrushGarage: do like Mr. T and pity the fool, he can't even spell "quiet", lol. 😆

[@doug595959]

is this piston or diaphragm

[@TheAirbrushGarage]

I never really gave it a thought. My criteria for a compressor like this is cycle time, decibels, and how hot it runs. All motors have pistons. The diaphragm is in the tank. If you can explain the difference of what you are asking, please do.

[@doug595959]

@@TheAirbrushGarage not all compressors have pistons the cheap ones have a diaphragm instead of a piston they don't last long and that used to be the first thing you thought of if you heard oil-less think old craftsman. they were aso called wobble compressors i've never heard of a diaphragm in a tank other than for water pressure. this video is on learnchannel on youtube (How does an Air Compressor work? (Compressor Types) - Tutorial Pneumatics)

[@doug595959]

@@TheAirbrushGarage if you type in diaphragm air compressor on google go to images