Which Compressor - Narrowing it Down

[65Stang]

Need to decide between two compressors:

Puma
http://seattle.craigslist.org/see/tls/2870825508.html

US General
http://www.harborfreight.com/5-hp-60-gallon-165-psi-two-stage-air-compressor-93274.html


Both same size, similar ratings, etc. One is two stage, one is not.

To be used for sand blasting, auto painting, auto bodywork/air tools, etc.

What say you!?

 

[Motofixxer]

I think the puma pump is a much highr quality unit. That would be my vote

 

[Gary S]

I'd choose the Harbor Freight one. The Puma has a more honest rating. They rate it at 4.5hp which is what it truly is. The Harbor Freight compressor puts out the same cfm, but is rated at 5hp which is probably a bit of a lie. A 5hp compressor should do a little better than 15cfm.

But, the Harbor Freight compressor is a two stage, and lets you get higher pressure for more storage in the same size tank.

 

[65Stang]

One to one...

 

[Kev442]

I have the US General. I've been happy with it but they are on the loud side.
The one year warranty on the Puma might be the clincher if you are planning on using the **** out of the compressor this year.

 

[larry4406]

I have a Puma, different model. Been very happy with it. bought it from www.toolcentral.com

 

[Burn1]

Hands down, buy a two stage air compressor for sandblasting work and HVLP paint spraying usage. As other poster said, two stage is quieter..

I bought a two stage. Frankly, buying an air compressor for one's garage is like buying a gun safe. You will always wish you bought a bigger one!

 

[65Stang]

I am thinking the Puma is higher quality. Especially looking at the tubing with fins for cooling, its weight (75 lbs heavier), pump design/size. But as noted above, single versus two stage, would I benefit greatly from two stage?

 

[71flh]

If you're going to work it hard, neither is my opinion.
Both motors look like 3450RPM which isn't a great sign.
HP and CFM aren't related. Mine is 5HP and 17.5CFM@175PSI

 

[rburke65]

The 2 stage comp. This will be your heart of your shop. Buy the quality and the biggest cfm/psi that you can or cannot afford. The smallest air tool really eats up the air.