Tattoo Gun

A properly functioning tattoo gun is arguably the most important tool a tattoo artist can have at their disposal. It is akin to a painter's brush, as it is the primary means by which ink is applied to the skin. And while these guns can be purchased from numerous dealers, many tattoo artists prefer to make their own variations.

A tattoo gun can be a very personal item for a tattoo artist. Much like a plumber might have a favorite wrench, or a cook might have a favorite knife, a tattoo artist will often have an attachment to a specific type of gun. This attachment can be for any number of reasons, ranging from specific components or functions, to things as vague as how it "feels". Furthermore, many artists end up modifying their guns according to their own requirements.

Another reason that many artists choose to make their own tattoo gun is economic in nature. A top-notch tattoo machine can cost several hundred dollars when purchased through a retail, or even a wholesale vendor. However, in many instances it is less expensive to build a gun from individual components, which can be a significant advantage for the artist on a budget.