A 1 HP, 8 Amp compressor with a 1.5 gallon tank delivering maximum 135psi the Husky Air is admittedly not the quality of tool I put to the test at work. I left my Fini compressor on a jobsite and wanted to pin nail a weekend project together. I picked up the sub-$100 Husky Air Scout for my ‘homeowner’ tasks and, for what it’s worth, I like it.

Rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Features:

•    1 Running HP, 135 MAX PSI , Oil Free
•    2.0 SCFM at 90 PSI , 3.0 SCFM at 40 PSI
•    Portable Lightweight Design with onboard storage
•    Simple controls and convenient carry handles
•    MFG Model # : 41214

Experience:
I set the Air Scout in my shop and nailed my project together. When I was done I used one of the included nozzles to dust off some machine tools. Since then I’ve been using this Husky compressor for pins, brads, stapling and the occasional dusting. I’m surprised how well this simplified compressor has taken on my modest ‘shop’ demands, for less than $100.

Comments:
This little tool isn’t designed for constant-run and with only a 1.5gal reservoir you’ll have to stick to appropriate tasks but still it comes with some great features. For one, I love it’s simplicity. There is an on off switch and a giant air pressure adjustment knob. Adjusting the output is so simple that it’s something I’ll actually do. I don’t intend to move this from job to job but it has large wheels and a collapsible handle for wheeling around like a suitcase. It’s lightweight and easily moved. There is a carry handle on top. Noise in the shop is standard but this compressor is easy on the ears. There is a built-in storage compartment where you will find the included hose, fittings and tools for inflating, dusting, etc. The included tools are low quality but might be nice to have in a pinch. It even comes with a roll of teflon tape. I wouldn’t bother with the impossible flex hose it comes with, instead get yourself a Pneu Flex or Bostitch Prozhoze for half the price of this compressor.

Links:
Husky Air Scout at home depot (Product Data)

The most important quality of my Italian-made Fini Biscout Air Compressor is the fact that it’s been in service for 17 years with no maintenance. I purchased this one in San Francisco in 1992 and I’ve been installing framing, siding and countless trim without a single day of down time.

Experience and Comments:

Working as a finish carpenter for years, I brought this Fini compressor with me whenever one wasn’t provided. In combination with a 16 gauge Paslode this little compressor has driven millions of nails. Until about 8 years ago I used to drain the tanks at night. One of the valves got a little sticky so I cranked it shut. I checked the oil three times over the years and I think I added some once. That’s about it. This has been one maintenance-free tool that I’ve used regularly, proving it’s outstanding quality.

I remember the day I bought it and the salesman saying “You’ll be happy with this one” and I remember thinking “What? The weird orange one I’ve never heard of before? – OK, I’ll take it.”
I couldn’t find references to other Fini compressors with the exception of a few classified ads.

Links:

Fini Compressors at FiniCompressors.com (Manufacturer Data)
–