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Belarus, Minsk
1 Level
694 Review
59 Karma

Review on Giottos AA1900 Rocket Air Blaster Large - Black: Powerful Dust Remover for Delicate Equipment by Roger Alexander

Revainrating 4 out of 5

Just got my (big) - hand held air blaster used for many years

So I just got my big rocket air blaster (filter reviews by your size if you must) and thought I'd pop in here come and throw in some science. Right off the bat it's large enough that if you're short on camera bag or space you might want to consider a different size or cloth. It has small "improvements" like holes to hang it around your strap/neck if you're assisting on set or frequently changing lenses on set and want to have it handy - nice! It's also one of those things that I lose a lot (I've had the same blaster for the last 3 years, albeit from a different brand, before it got lost), so it's nice to be able to hang it up somewhere in the studio, isn't it? next to the scanner. One thing I noticed were two things: First, the rubber on it is a bit more "brittle" or feels harsh than other brands. Coming here and reading reviews that mention they fell apart or started cracking just sitting in a desk drawer (not in the sun), I'm not very positive about my new purchase. Further on the pole of this thing is a sticker with a serial number (not shown in the photo). I suspect it's there because enough dishonest/rude people have used the old switch on them - perhaps by buying a new one, then putting their old one in a package and sending it back claiming it arrived hacked. Sorry if I'm wrong, but I've never seen a pneumatic blaster with a serial number. Maybe it's the warranty or something, who knows? The last thing that bothered me was that the price was $7 in 2013 (see LuvLeaf's 2 star review June '13). I paid $17 for mine (large) in 2020. So maybe it's just inflation? All in all, I don't know if I'll keep it or send it back. I've done a great job with the Altura 'Kit' Blower for lenses and screen dust over the past few years, and it's $12-$13 + you get a ton of goodies in the kit. For those of you who say it doesn't move a lot of air, no, it's not compressed air. However, due to the large bulb, it moves a lot of air for a hand-held fan. Squeeze him hard and fast, and he'll blow harder and with more force. For those who want to blow air from their mouth onto their lenses (I don't know why, but still) there is a RIGHT way to do it without spitting all over the place. First, place the lens at chin level, well UNDER your mouth. Then place your hand on the front of your mouth - next to your mouth but not touching it. and be sure to place the lens (or whatever you are cleaning so that it is under and BEHIND your hand). NOW choke several times, quickly and with good pressure. Adjust the distance/angle to redirect airflow from your mouth to the lens/whatever you're cleaning to protect it from unwanted saliva particles. Don't forget to dry and purse your lips as if playing a french horn. Blow at your own risk of course, I use this method when I don't have a blower handy and it works like a charm. All in all, I'll leave it at that. it MOVES A LOT OF AIR. I am not 100% sure on this though as I read reviews and feel hard (or more) like rubber. I think we'll see how long it lasts just sitting on a climate controlled drying rack. GIOTTOS, if you're listening, it would be great if you see if there are other rubber options. I understand it must be hard to get up, but if they're hitting people who don't offend them, maybe it's time to reconsider the special drink. Also, 4 out of 5 will return. and update this review if mine breaks. BTW I see people who have had this thing start cracking, they break where the red tip meets the bulb (at the rubber lip). I'm wondering if rubber glue or some sort of rubber sealant like E6000 will fix the problem. I hope I never have to find out.

Pros
  • Electronics
Cons
  • Exchange availability

Comments (10)

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January 31, 2023
Stellar product, just that.
January 22, 2023
Very handy and more safe for taking dust away from digital camera sensors.
January 12, 2023
Works great, but one star off for funny Perfume smell.
January 04, 2023
Just Got Mine (Large) - Been Using Hand Powered Air Blasters for Years
December 21, 2022
This thing blows to the mooooooon!
December 12, 2022
Not Impressed
December 08, 2022
Keeps your equipment clean of those pesky dust particles.
December 04, 2022
The LARGE model is highly effective (big surprise); adjust your expectations and it's great
November 24, 2022
Great When New, But They Don't Last Forever
October 14, 2022
Perfect air blaster with an ingenious design. Used for camera sensor cleaning.