Air compressor noise - Makita MAC2400, Makita MAC5200, Makita MAC700KIT, Makita MAC700, Grip Rite GR2500, Thomas Compressors T-100SP, Porter-Cable CPFC2TV3525VP, Thomas Compressors TG-400HST, Senco PC0947, Porter-Cable CPFAC2600P

Air Compressor Noise - 1 2 3

*13 Amp 2-1/2 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Compressor* \| Makita MAC2400**
	$460.00 >> $249.00 by Makita 19-3/8 by 18 by 18-3/4 inches; 77 pounds; 1-year warranty 1/4-inch brass Makita universal coupler Cast-iron pump and roll cage construction 4.2 cfm delivered at 90 psi; low 1,720 rpm extends motor life and lowers noise 13 amp, 2-1/2-horsepower, 4-gallon oiled twin hot dog compressor with handle found in MAC2400's description: From the Manufacturer The new MAC2400 - Twin Stack air compressor by Makita is blowing away the competition.3 amps to operate, a lower 1720 RPM rating and a heavy duty Intake Air Filter system like no other, its easy to see how this unit will out last and outperform everyone else. Product Description Low Noise - Substantially lower noise levels with a large 1,720 - RPM pump-enabling greater displacement at lower RPM. Large automotive style industrial air filter for increased air intake and greater efficiency. found in MAC2400's reviews: Even a dummy can operate this... - Easy to operate Electric unit holds down the noise. great compressor - I had no problems with the condition of my new compressor. The noise level is like advertised (fairly quiet). For the volume of work I will do, this is plenty of compressor and then some. Makita MAC2400 - Its heavy but so are all the other compressors in its class. I have a upright 60 gal 3 hp IR that makes more noise* than the Makita.* UNBELIEVABLY QUIET!!! - FIRST OF ALL THIS COMPRESSOR IS THE MOST UNBELIEVABLY QUIETEST COMPRESSOR I'VE EVER OWNED! NOT TO MENTION WE RAN 2 FRAMING NAILERS ALL DAY LONG AND IT NEVER EVEN AS MUCH AS BARKED, THE RECOVERY TIME IS SUPERB! NOW THE DOWN SIDE THIS SUCKERS HEAVY!!! IF YOU HAVE A BAD BACK GET A CHEAP NOISE MAKER AND EAR PROTECTORS OR GO WITH THE PROFFESSIONAL COMPRESSOR AND HIRE A LABORER YOU CANT BEAT THIS THING!!!!. Great Compressor - I don't intend on moving it around much, I was concerned more with noise and build quality, both of which are superb on this model. I had bought a craftsman compressor and returned it because it was a piece of junk, and came out of the box dirty and didn't work- I'm guessing it was a refurb. *Great portable compressor!* - I have used this compressor for about 2 months with absolutely no problem. This is the quietest compressor I have owned and sure is a pleasure to not hear the noise, especially in a small room. I have used the compressor to run a framing nailer, air drill, and impact wrench with no problems. With the air drill it took a couple times letting the air compressor recharge the tanks before I could get full power out of the drill. This is a great air compressor for anyone wanting a quite portable unit! . Very pleased - It's in a 12x24 workshed, and sits next to my workbench and the noise doesn't bother me at all. This is my first air compressor, and I just received it yesterday so can't vouch for long-term quality, but I just wanted folks to know that it has ZERO damage. The air filter was packaged in a heavy plastic baggie along with the oil and manual. The thin paper manual has a few indentations from the wingnut on the air filter pressing into it, but the compressor unit itself is showroom clean. *Perfect compressor* - quiet & powerful - I needed a compressor to put up a fence, install mouldings and refinish my basement. Well, it's a compressor and they ARE heavy. Especially a high-quality compressor like this one. Additional comments: The finned discharge tubing on this thing is fantastic - if you've never had your hand seared like a steak after touching discharge tubing on a compressor, you haven't truly felt pain. Again, the noise level is excellent. I can use the compressor in my basement shop and can barely hear it running on the main level. If you're looking for a high-quality, oil-lube (don't know why anyone would go for a non-oil unit) compressor** that will last for years, look no further.
*13.8 Amp 3 Horsepower 5 Gallon Oiled Wheeled Single Hot Dog Compressor* \| Makita MAC5200**
	$544.00 >> $319.00 by Makita 29 by 19 by 19-1/2 inches; 88 pounds; 1-year warranty 1/4-inch brass Makita universal coupler Cast-iron pump and roll cage construction 6-1/2 cfm delivered at 90 psi; low 1,720 rpm extends motor life and lowers noise 13.8 amp, 3-horsepower, 5-gallon oiled wheeled single hot dog compressor and folding handle found in MAC5200's description: com Product Review Whether you need a compressor for woodworking, painting, caulking or construction, this 5-gallon Makita is a great choice, primarily because of its impressive 6-1/2 cfm at 90 psi on a 13. Built-in Storage Compartment - Conveniently stores air fittings & accessories. Air Hose Wrap - Stores 50 of 3/8" Air Hose with handle folded or upright. Large automotive style industrial air filter for increased air intake and greater efficiency. found in MAC5200's reviews: Good specs for the price range - 8 amp draw, collapsible cart, oil lubed pump, good air filter and ball valve drain. Did not find many other compressors in this price range with those specs and did not want to pay $600+ for a monster. The manual says it has a 50% duty cycle so if you need a compressor that will run without stopping look elsewhere. On arrival the box had major rips and crushed areas fairly typical of my experiences of UPS shipment with heavy items. The noise level was what I would expect, maybe a little less than the 6. Worried, distressed, & troubled - Not - turned out awesome!!! - Now to the unit - awesome!!! A container of compressor oil was included - filled the oil reserve and went to "initial startup procedure" on page 10 of owner's manual. Was somewhat confused by Step 1 - open the "air receiver's drain value". What the %^& is a air* receiver's drain value??? I know what the Drain Valve or Cock at the bottom of the tank is - but was I missing something? A fast call to Makita's service center confirmed to open drain valve on tank for the no-load break in. Unit is heavier than appears and the noise level is impressively quietier than expected (at least in my garage for the break-in period). I think I'll be very pleased with this compressor if everything remains as positive as the initial impressions.

*18 Gauge Brad Nailer Compressor* Combo Kit \| Makita MAC700KIT**
	$518.00 >> $329.95 by Makita Roll bar handle for portability and added protection against harsh jobsite environments Oil lubricated for cooler running pump and an automotive style air filter for easy, low-cost maintenance Large cast iron pump with automotive style cylinder and piston deliver maximum performance The low 1720 rpm is half that of most competitive units, resulting in greater motor and pump life, and the substantially lower noise level makes it the quietest compressor in its class High rated 3.3 CFM @ 90 PSI found in MAC700KIT's description: From the Manufacturer The new MAC700KIT-Hotdog compressor (with AF503 2 Brad Nailer) by Makita is blowing away the competition with built-in features such as a super quiet motor that draws only 12. found in MAC700KIT's reviews: High Quality Kit - If you are looking for a small compact compressor* that has the capacity of the medium sized units, this is the one. Don't forget the noise level!! .* Recommended Unit - I'm pleased with the Makita MAC700KIT 2 HP Air Compressor Kit I purchased from Amazon. I did a fair amount of research and was tempted to purchase a Porter-Cable oil-free kit, but after borrowing a Craftsman (same as Porter-Cable)oil-free compressor from a friend, I decided to go with the oil lubricated Makita primarily because the unit is much quieter but also because I'm convinced the oil-based units have a longer life span. I started the Makita unit (after the required 20 minute lubrication "break-in") and asked my wife what she thought about the noise level.
*The Hotdog 12.4 Amp 2 Horsepower 2-1/2 Gallon Oiled Single Hotdog Compressor* \| Makita MAC700**
	$288.00 >> $176.40 by Makita 18 by 10 by 22 inches; 52 pounds; 1-year warranty 1/4-inch brass Makita universal coupler Cast-iron pump and roll cage construction 3.3 cfm delivered at 90 psi; low 1,720 rpm extends motor life and lowers noise 12.4 amp, 2-horsepower, 2-1/2-gallon oiled single hot dog compressor with handle found in MAC700's description: From the Manufacturer The new MAC700 - Hotdog compressor by Makita is blowing away the competition with built-in features such as a super quiet motor that draws only 12.0HP AIR COMPRESSOR 12. hot dog tank Low amp draw & oil lubricated Roll-bar handle Industrial air filter & cast iron cylinder Oil sight glass & lever handle ball valve Built-in thermal overload for motor protection MAC700 2HP AIR COMPRESSOR. found in MAC700's reviews: *An Airbrushing Powerhouse* - I use it to power airbrushes along with an added-on airbrush regulator/gauge/moisture trap. This is exactly what I wanted for airbrushing. It has a much longer lifespan than "airbrush compressors". It's noise level is acceptible. The airbrushes work consistently all throughout the refill phase. This is the muscle car of airbrush compressors even though it was made in Taiwan. 5 to 10 minutes of airbrushing in silence, and when it comes on it does have some volume, but it is so much less noise than an oilless. *Great compressor* for my CD Eraser operation, bearable noise level - I bought a $300 DeWalt compressor and it was very loud. I have a blister packaging machine in the garage that requires compressed air to operate the heat sealing plate. Anyhow, this Makita compressor is used in the garage along with my machine and the noise level is bearable. Great Little Compressor by RMB - I brought this unit and during the 20 minute break-in period, I had the compressor setting 8ft. away from my sciddish dog, and the noise level was so low she did not even bat an eye, she just layed there. Reviewer from Arizona - I am pleased with this Makita's compressor. Comparing it to other light weight/low capacity compressors I had before the engine noise is not that bad. For instance the air filter is place in an aluminum container whereas most other small compressor*s use plastic containers instead which can easily break off. Great little compressor* - Be sure to fill with oil and install the air filter before starting. Serious PITA, but cost was minimal and repair works fine. All in all, a great little compressor, and the best choice if noise is a concern. Great little compressor - I have had this compressor for a couple of weeks now and really like it. I chose this model over the very popular oil-free pancake compressors mainly for it's compact size and low noise level. The unit is compact, but much heavier duty than similar Crftman compressors I saw at Sears. I would recommend this unit to anyone looking for an occasional use compressor* and does not want something large or loud. Makita Delivered - My Makita compressor was delivered 1 day after placing my order - by UPS, no special handling. Instead of a noisly BRBRBRBRAAT that my previous compressor made, this machine just purrs, and conversations can be made without raised voices right on top of the unit. Set-up consists of adding the supplied container of oil, screwing on the chrome air filter, and running the unit for 15 minutes under no load to lubricate cylinder and valves. You won't find this compressor at Lowe's or Home Depot, and the ones you do see there are physically bigger, not much more capacity, and twice as expensive. The closest unit I could find was on eBay - 4 Gal unit oiled Eaton compressor at $165. versus 151 for the Makita, and has a 15 amp running motor at higher RPM versus Makita's 12 amp at slower RPM (and noise levl is probably higher than Makita).
*15 Amp 3 Horsepower 4-1/4 Gallon Oiled Twin Pontoon Compressor* \| Grip-Rite GR2500**
	$299.00 >> $299.00 by Grip Rite 12-Month limited warranty Electric direct drive and oil splash lubricated for longer life Superior Quality Speroni?� pump Life expectancy of up to 8,000 hours Contractor grade, 3 HP (peak), 4.2 gallon capacity found in GR2500's description: These same principles are now reflected in Grip-Rite's line of professional quality tools and compressors. This is currently Grip-Rite's flagship compressor for good reason. Other added features include a heavy duty pressure switch and large metal gauges, a start-up relief valve for minimized amperage draw upon cold startup and a moderate 69 decibel noise level. The pontoon-style tank design of this unit was intended to minimize tip over while still offering enough air to handle nearly any job. Compare to: Hitachi EC119, Porter Cable Job-boss Model #C3551, Porter-Cable CPLDC2541S, Porter-Cable CPLDC2540S, Rol-Air The Bull.
*15 Amp 1 Horsepower 3 Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Compressor* \| Thomas T-100SP**
	$469.00 by Thomas Compressors All-steel/aluminum construction (no plastic shrouds) for optimal durability Life-Guard Dirt Deflector for cleaner, cooler operations Quiet-running (75 decibels) for reduced operator fatigue 3.1 cfm @ 100 psi output for supporting up to two nailers simultaneously 1,700 rpm motor keeps up with the fastest nailers found in T-100SP's description: From the Manufacturer Designed for continuous, multiple-gun operation, the Thomas Model T-100SP Renegade is a high output, 1-horsepower compressor tough enough for a wide variety of applications.1 cfm at 100 psi, this three-gallon pancake tank compressor supports one to two nail guns simultaneously. High overall tank pressure (135 psi) supports longer hose runs, which means greater air-storage capacity, too. The patented "Life Guard Dirt Deflector" extends compressor life by eliminating dirt and improving cylinder cooling. A slow-turning (1700 rpm) motor reduces noise level and extends compressor life. FEATURES Only 75 decibels for less operator fatigue Higher CFM Delivery - 135 psi Designed to Run on 15 Amp Circuits Designed to Run on Extension Cords All Steel/Aluminum Construction (No Plastic Shrouds) Built for Contractors in Sheboygan, Wisconsin Rated for Continuous Use (100% Duty Cycle) Ball Bearing Construction Throughout Will Start and Run in Cold Weather Extremely Well Balanced (no walking) Run at Any Angle (will not run tight) Fast, Easy, Low Cost Rebuilds No Maintenance Costs or Downtime No Oil to Add, Change or Spill Life - Guard Dirt Deflector Extends Life SPECIFICATIONS Air Displacement 6.0 CFM Air Delivery 3.1 CFM @100 PSI Max pressure to 135 PSI Pressure Switch Starts compressor @ 110 PSI Stops compressor @ 135 PSI Motor 1 HP electric motor Capacitor Start Tanks Capacity 3 gallons Shipping Weight 57 lbs.
*15 Amp 3.5 Horsepower 25-Gallon Oil-Free Wheeled Vertical Compressor* \| Porter-Cable CPFC2TV3525VP**
	$707.47 >> $359.96 by Porter-Cable 5-year limited warranty Provides 5.6 scfm at 40 psi and 5.1 scfm at 90 psi High-flow regulator for more efficient operation of pneumatic tools Tank pressure is maintained between 145 and 175 psi for more usable air High-pressure technology provides the equivalent of a 60-gallon air supply found in CPFC2TV3525VP's description: From the Manufacturer This 25-gallon vertical air compressor is a real performer with a high-pressure design that allows more usable air to be stored in the tank. It's like being able to fit 60-gallons of air in a 25-gallon tank, giving you a longer time between refills, you'll get more done. A higher flow regulator starts the pump at 145 psi and stops it at 175 psi for more pressure and airflow. Includes compressor with high-flow, high-pressure regulator and gauge, 1/4-inch quick coupler, and operator's manual.6 HP Running 175 PSI - 60 gallon equivalent tank size as compared to conventional 125 PSI model 82 Dba High-FloSM air regulator (145 PSI start and 175 PSI stop pressure switch) and High-FloSM quick connect coupler Provides the highest level of moderate-to-heavy duty, tool operation in its class Direct-drive, twin cylinder, oil free design for duability and no maintenance 120 Volt high-torque, capacitor start induction motor for reliable starting Longer life and quieter operation with "4 Pole" 1725 RPM motor Large air regulated pressure gauge for easy visibility and better accuracy Cushioned handle for comfortable grip Shroud with integrated air intake filter improves cooling and reduces noise Standard Equipment: Compressor, ASME safety valve, air regulator and gauges, 1/4" quick coupler, and operating manual SPECIFICATIONS Lubrication: Oil Free Tank Size Gal. PSI: 175 SCFM Air Delivery @40 PSI: 5.6 SCFM Air Delivery @90 PSI: 5. Product Description 25-gallon tank, 15 amps @ 115 volts, 175 PSI, SCFM Air Delivery 5.1 @ 90 PSI, Pressure release, Regulator, 2 gauges, Standard equipment: Compressor, ASME safety valve, air regulator and gauges. found in CPFC2TV3525VP's reviews: Not too big or too small - It doesn't make the clackety noise other units make. Can run my air ratchet or 1/2' impact quite a long time without turning on. A sander (especially a high-speed unit) uses an awful lot of air and under heavy sander use I think this unit would be "strained". Bottom line if you need a compressor but the smaller 15 to 20 gal types are not enough and a big 60 to 80 gal.

*4 Horsepower 4 Gallon Oiled Twin Hot Dog Gas Compressor* \| Thomas TG-400HST**
	$999.00 by Thomas Compressors Fuel Capacity .66 Gal. Engine Honda GX120 4 HP OHV Gas Pressure Switch Continuous run unloader valve with idle down - Unloads @135 PSI, Loads @ 115 PSI Air Delivery 5.4 CFM @ 100 PSI Air Displacement 12.4 CFM found in TG-400HST's description: Longer Life - With the patented LifeGuard™ dirt deflector that keeps job site dust and grit out of the compressor, the new Renegade® will perform year after year Engine - Cast iron cylinder sleeve extends life of engine Perma-lube oil-less design for maintenance-free operation and quick cold weather starts Designed for Maintenance-free operation with no belts, belt guards or pulleys, which also means less vulnerability to job site damage High performance overhead valve design for added power and high efficiency . found in TG-400HST's reviews: Air Cube 1 - This compressor is a contractor's dream.4 CFM @ 100 PSI air delivery. This 1-1/2 foot cube gas compressor fits in the trunk of a midsize vehicle. This is the only gas power compressor that I have worked with that a single average size person can move (alone). The engine optimizes fuel efficiency by automatically slowing to an ideal speed when the air tanks are full. The engine, even while operating faster to fill the air tanks, is relatively quiet allowing a normal conversation a few feet away. The engine has a noise-reducing muffler built in. It is quieter than the pancake compressors I have used. The base has four pads to absorb vibration and further reduce noise. Each air tank has a separate moisture drain valve to keep the tanks from rusting on the inside. * The air regulator comes with two 1/4" female NPT thread connections. Since I could not remove the stripped hex plug, I used the air gage connection to add a tee.
*/ FP18KIT 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Compressor* Combo Kit \| Senco PC0947**
	$249.00 >> $197.00 by Senco 1-year warranty on nailer; 90-day warranty on compressor Includes nailer, 1/4-inch -by-25-foot hose, safety glasses, fittings, oil, 1,200 brad nails, wrenches, and manuals Compressor: 1 horsepower, 2-1/2 gallons; aluminum cylinder with steel sleeve; 20 pounds Nailer: adjustable depth of drive, rear exhaust, easy-open latch, no-mar pad, low-load indicator 18-gauge brad nailer and 1-gallon compressor combo kit found in PC0947's description: FinishPro 18 FEATURES Extra power — Drives fasteners up to 2" in hard wood applications Belt hook — For convenience Adjustable depth-of-drive Rear exhaust — Keeps oil and dust away from work surface Easy-open latch — For quick and comfortable loading Hardened steel driver — For extended life Full soft grip — For comfort and control Low load indicator — Visible fastener indication No-mar pad — To protect work materials One-year warranty Includes case, fitting, oil, hex wrench and fastener rebate Projects Baseboard,cabinets, casebacks, chair rail, finish and trim, furniture frames, furniture trim, mirror and picture frames, trim FinishPro 18 SPECIFICATIONS Power (in/lbs): 168 Height: 9.3 bar) Mode of Operation: Restrictive Trigger Fastener Types Gauge: 18 Fastener Range: 5/8"—2" Finish: Galvanized What's in the Box This kit comes complete with the FinishPro 18 brad nailer, a Senco 1/2 hp (1 hp peak), 1-gallon compressor, 1/4-by-25-foot coil hose, safety glasses, fittings, tool oil, variety pack of 1,200 brad nails, tool wrenches and manuals. Product Description Finish Pro 18 Combo Kit, Perfect For Woodworkers & Punch List Contractor, Kit Includes, Lightweight Oilless, 1HP Compressor, Finish Pro 18 Brad Nailer 5/8" To 2", Hose, Fittings, Sample Pack Of Brads, Safety Glasses & Bottle Of Oil. found in PC0947's reviews: Very Satisfied - The compressor is small and light, easily fits in the trunk or back seat, a breeze to move from place to place. I live in an apartment, and I agree with others who have found the noise level lower than other compressors, a blessing in that environment. Not having any experience with air tools, yet knowing it was the way to go to install casing and baseboard in my kitchen remodel, I agonized over whether to get a brad or finish nailer.
*15 Amp 2 Horsepower 6-Gallon Oil-Free Pancake Compressor* \| Porter-Cable CPFAC2600P**
	$316.16 >> $167.00 by Porter-Cable 32 pounds; 1-year warranty Includes compressor, ASME safety valve, regulator, gauges, 1/4-inch quick coupler, manual Cast-iron construction Provides 3.7 cfm at 40 psi and 2.6 cfm at 90 psi; air-regulator and quick-connect coupler 15 amp, 2-horsepower, 6-gallon oil-free pancake compressor; handle; built-in thermal overload protector found in CPFAC2600P's description: com Review This Porter-Cable 2-horsepower, 6-gallon pancake compressor transports easily but has plenty of capacity and power--enough to support heavy use of brad and finish nailers and moderate use of framing nailers. Features include a high-flow regulator, an easy-to-read air pressure gauge, automatic thermal overload protection, an industrial-style quick-connect body in the air outlet, and a long-life motor with replaceable brushes. The compressor weighs 32 pounds and has a handle built into the motor housing, so it's relatively portable. This Porter-Cable is as convenient and easy to use as any compressor out there, and it's just about ideal for brad and finish nailers that are being used inside people's homes on a regular basis. --Jonathon Tudor From the Manufacturer This oil-free 2-hp pancake-style air compressor has a new high pressure design that provides 28-percent more usable air! This allows more run time and less down time. The high-flow regulator keeps the tank pressure between 120 PSI and 150 PSI, allowing a greater reserve air capacity. Lightweight for portability, this compressor has plenty of power to fire all brad and finishing nailers as well as moderate usage of roofing and framing nailers. Includes compressor, high flow air regulator and gauges, quick coupler, and instruction manual.8 HP Running Built-in automatic thermal overload protection Larger Easy to read regulated air pressure gauge Universal, High-FloSM, push-to-connect coupler in air outlet One year warranty 150 PSI - 10 gallon equivalent tank size as compared to conventional 125 PSI model 87 Dba Oil-free pump design for durability and no maintenance Long-life motor with replaceable brushes High-FloSM air regulator for more work at higher pressure (125 PSI start and 150 PSI stop pressure switch) 6 gallon tank supports heavy usage of stapler, brad and finish nailer, standard-to-heavy roofing and standard framing nailer 120 Volt, universal motor starts easily under low voltage conditions Extension cord use without tripping circuit breakers Standard Equipment: Compressor, ASME safety valve, air regulator and gauges, 1/4" quick coupler, and operating manual SPECIFICATIONS Lubrication: Oil Free Gauges: 2 Quick Couple: 1/4" NPT Weight (Lbs. PSI: 150 SCFM Air Delivery @40 PSI: 3.7 SCFM Air Delivery @90 PSI: 2. Product Description 2 HP, 6 Gallon, Oil-Free Pancake Air Compressor, 150 PSI Maximum Tank Pressure, 3.6 SCFM @ 90 PSI 87 DBA, 15 AMPS, Built-In Thermal Over Load Protection, Hi-Flo Air Regulator With Quick-Connect Coupler, Regulated Pressure Gauges, Includes ASME Safety Valve, 1 Year Warranty. found in CPFAC2600P's reviews: *Good compressor* for a good price - I've owned a large compressor for years and needed something that can easily be ported anywhere - the large one is nice, but combersome for small jobs. This small compressor is actually used a lot more than my original compressor. Spraying paint I haven't tried and probably would not work well - it just doesn't have the air delivery. That is what my large compressor is used for. It is an oil-less compressor - so it is relatively noisy but noise means power, no? :) . Perfect for my needs and budget too - I have a small workshop with very little space and I need to have "air" available at times. Despite its 92-decibel noise level which is, I think, louder than it may sound, the unit is light in weight with an easy-carry handle cut-out, has virtually no vibration, offers oil-less operation and fills up very quickly. The particular unit that I purchased at a local home center offered this compressor packed with a coiled air hose, blow gun, tire chuck, tire pressure gauge, NPT fittings, etc. However, I made a separate purchase of a 50' length of regular braided air hose for increased flexibility and mobility. Also, it's a bit difficult to use certain air tools with this model because the capacity and constant volume of air are not that great. Once pneumatic, you never go back - The Porter-Cable 2HP 6-gallon pancake compressor is a reasonably powerful and reasonably portable air compressor. I only recently purchased one but I am already sold on pneumatic tools, which the PC 6-gallon compressor operates surprisingly well. Although many pneumatic tools, such as air hammers, drills, and sanders, consume quite a bit of air (generally in the neighborhood of 5 CFM at 90 PSI), I have found that my PC compressor does just fine with its modest 2. My one complaint is that the motor and compressor are a bit louder than I expected. Then again, the noise of the compressor is hardly noticeable above the din of an air hammer, so I'm not sure it really matters. If you enjoy using power tools and you have not yet experienced the pleasures of pneumatic gizmos, you should consider purchasing a small but serious compressor like the PC 2HP 6-gallon pancake. It's truly amazing how versatile compressed air is; basically any tool that runs on electricity also comes in a pneumatic version (well, except for arc welders). But be warned! If you take the plunge into pneumatic tools, there is an endless stream of items you will find yourself purchasing: air tool lubricants and cleaning kits, in-line oilers, air hoses and gauges, quick connectors, air filters, oil-water separators, Teflon tape, universal air hose joints, air** manifolds, blowguns with assorted nozzles, etc.) One odd thing I've noticed is that the PC 6-gallon compressor* is virtually identical to the Craftsman 6-gallon compressor, right down to the paint job.*