Air compressors for small shop use

[EatonEggbeater]

Hi folks, looking for a shop compressor; saw older threads with the Craftsmen, Husky and others...

Will be used for light fabrication, plasma cutting, air tools glass beading and the like. Everyone says to buy as much compressor as you can up front, so I'm trying to stuff in a 2 stage device in under $1000, 60/80 gallon upright.

I see that Lowes has a 2 stage (http://www.lowes.com/ProductDisplay?productId=3370338) for under $900, but the reviews are crap on it.

Not willing to sort all that Craigslist has to offer...And there's a Tractor Supply/Northern Tools/Harbor Freight in town, but the Lowes compressor looks to offer more value.

Might get its little brother; (http://www.lowes.com/pd_54284-1126-VT6362_0+1z0vj3c__) gets good reviews, but is single stage.

So looking for a new compressor, 240 volts, will install outside, under cover.

Location will be Fredericksburg, VA.

Thanks!

Mike

 

[Iamchris]

Edited, you seem to know what you are looking for. Was advising on need... but you seem to have it covered.

 

[Lightning Lad]

I don't have much advice but I can say it is better to by an oversized air compressor than an undersized one.

 

[SID297]

Def buy as much as you can afford. Media blasting takes a lot of air.

 

[EatonEggbeater]

Probably go with one of the "Horror Fraught" compressors; http://www.harborfreight.com/5-hp-60-gallon-165-psi-two-stage-air-compressor-93274.html with the extra warranty...

Thanks guys.

plasma cutters next...

Mike