Campbell Hausfeld HV3500 Fine Finish HVLP Paint Sprayer

High-volume low-pressure (HVLP) systems like the HV3500 work best in situations where you’re applying a fine finish as opposed to a heavy coat of paint or varnish. In other words, you wouldn’t want to use a system like this to paint your house-it would take forever. If you’re working on smaller projects involving stains, polyurethane, or even thinned latex paints, however, HVLP is the way to go.

With HVLP systems, turbine size plays a big role in determining how fine your paint mist will be. The HV3500 includes the HV3000 turbine, which gives you enough power (65 CFM/6 PSI) to deliver a fine mist and to allow you to get a heavier coat if necessary.

The professional-grade spray gun is well-balanced and comfortable to use, and it can be attached to the hose at the rear or the bottom, depending on your preference. I had some trouble with running stain on practice runs, but soon got a feel for the best combination of air flow, movement, air-cap setting and proximity to the surface to get a nice, fine finish.

This is a quality product from a respected manufacturer, and is a great option for providing fine finishes on smaller projects.–Josh Dettweiler