The Energon Pub

Where is the best and easiest place to buy Tamiya Acrylic paints?

Can they be found in any big retailer aside from Wal-Mart? Or do I have to go to a hobby store for this?

Thanks.

A hobby store that sells models. I get my paints at hobbytown usa. I think any of the big box retailers sell anything but regular testors model paint.

Hobby shops (specialize in models, trains, R/C cars & such) for sure. No big chain stores like Walmart and Target carry Tamiya stuff, not that I've seen at least.

Is Tamiya better than the other brands (Testors, etc?)

Pretty sure Tamiya is better than regular Testor. But Model Master (made by Testor, but higher grade) is a good option if Tamiya is harder to find. Tamiya, Gunze Sangyo & Mr.Color are all good Japanese brands. But might need an expert to tell you the differences.

I've always preferred Model Master over Tamiya paints. Tamiya doesn't brush on as well, and I've heard its harder to airbrush with. But you'd have to go to Hobby Lobby, local hobby stores, Micheals, or other such places to get either. Or you can order them on any one of the myriad websites that offer them. Just google your choice.

Tamiya has made some killer ship and armor molds in the past though.

i use sharpis works for me although i might get some paint too

i use both. testors master models have some great colors and do work well, tamiya is a one coat paint, imo. plus the clear colors they have are outstanding!