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Buying a Tattoo Gun

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A tattoo gun is the most important investment you can make in your tattoo equipment purchases. You should take some time to do your research and not rush into a purchase. Whether you are a rookie and looking for your first machine or you are an experienced artist looking to upgrade read what you can about what to look for and the current selection available.

The first thing you need to know before purchasing a tattoo gun is the material used in the make up of the machine. Tattoo guns should be made of good high quality metal . This will keep them from breaking frequently and the stronger metals will hold up over time.  Tattoo guns are traditionally made of conductive materials such as iron, brass or aluminum.

The second important item or option to consider about purchasing a tattoo gun is what size and variety. Tattoo guns are usually divided in 2 types -  “lining” or “shading”. Some stores will carry a machine that is strictly built for lining or just shading.  Another style of machine can be adjusted to be a liner or a shader with manual adjustments.  These versatile machines are usually more expensive and probably be purchased only when you have been shown or taught how to adjust the machine to be one or the other.  It needs to be tuned often to switch between the 2 functions for the ink to be introduced into the skin as you intend.

If you are new to the art of tattooing, you should consider purchasing a tattoo kit. These kits come with a machine for each -  tuning isn't necessary - except for maintenance care. They usually come with other items that a rookie will find they need to purchase.

If you have the option of handling the machine before purchasing - take advantage. Judge the weight and feel in your hands. Some are heavier than others which can be an advantage to offset the vibration of the machine but a heavier machine requires strength in the hands. Strength is built up with regular tattoo work and some people will actually "exercise" their hands to get used to the weight.

Coils (electro-magnets) come in various sizes. The more wraps a coil has, the more power it needs, and also the more power it can handle. The 3 common types of coils - 8 wrap, 10 wrap, and 12 wrap. Eight wrap is the weakest and some artists like them for outlining. 10 wrap coils are the most commonly used and are good for lining or shading or coloring. 12 wrap coils are good for hard hitting work and are good for coloring. If you are able to buy multiple machines, you may want to try the various options in coil size. If you have a large needle group, you must use a stronger more powerful machine.

Your choice in machine style is partly based on your style and personal choices. Everyone has their own opinion on what is best for them and you'll probably purchase guns that you will regret later. As in everything in life, experience is the best teacher. Find out the opinions of people currently working as tattoo artists. They can possibly save you from making a bad purchase. If they have already done the homework, pick their brain.