In the late 80's I used the precursor to this product that was all brass and could only be leased. Fantastic tool and nothing like it. With my own company for 18 yrs., we always used a hopper and compressor. Now, I'm working as a handyman and the jobs are so small, I resorted to the canned textures ... all crap. So I thought I'd give this tool a try and bought the one used with a small compressor. Worked fine but not for small jobs. I returned it in pristine condition to Timothy's and then purchased the pump. Used it twice, once for a couple of ceiling patches where it worked great and the second time for 50 sq. ft. of drywall, ceiling and wall patches. The second time I got the thickness of the spray mud right and was able to match the orange peel perfectly the first spray. No need for a second pass. I could not believe it. The adjustment and pressure is a bit touchy but once you get it - the spray comes out great. Thank you very much.