A rotary tattoo machine can be  reliable, smooth, and  semi beginner-friendly, but a  handmade coil tattoo machines offer a different kind of power—raw, self-regulating, and responsive. It’s like the difference between driving a Prius and a hot rod—both get you where you need to go, but coils provide that tactile, hands-on experience. Once you dial in your voltage (3.5V to 8V), you’ll feel the precision and control that comes with a well-tuned coil machine. Whether you’re a professional artist or transitioning from rotary, a coil machine offers unmatched craftsmanship and performance for both lining and shading. Take your tattooing to the next level with the versatility, power, and customization of a coil tattoo machine. Explore the rich history, craftsmanship, and flexibility that make coils a favorite choice for precision artists.

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Why Choose a Coil Tattoo Machine?

Hand Made Coil tattoo machines offer some serious advantages for tattoo artists looking to take their craft to the next level. Whether you're a seasoned pro or someone thinking about making the leap, adding a coil machine to your tattooing toolkit can open doors to new possibilities. Here's why:

1. Unmatched Precision and Power

The  Handmade coil tattoo machine delivers raw power and precision, giving artists the control needed to create bold outlines and flawless shading. Whether you're hitting crisp, sharp lines or working on soft black-and-gray, the dynamic electromagnetic system provides consistent, steady power. A well-tuned handmade coil machine allows you to adjust everything from speed to stroke depth, ensuring you can tailor your setup to suit any style, from fine details to solid black work.

2. Understanding the Craft

Working with a Handmade coil machine is more than just using a tool—it’s about learning the craft of tattooing itself. By adjusting the tension of the springs, fine-tuning the armature bar, and swapping coils, you develop a deeper understanding of how tattoo machines work and how each adjustment affects your lines and shading. This hands-on experience improves your overall skills, helping you become a better artist by gaining a deeper connection with the tool and the art form. Mastering the intricacies of a coil machine makes you more precise, more intentional, and more skilled.

3. Achieve Stunning Effects

The versatility of a well-tuned coil machine allows you to achieve stunning effects like stippling, smooth gradients, and sharp contrast with precision. Whether you’re shading large areas, adding detail to a portrait, or creating complex textures, the coil's ability to adjust to various needle groupings gives you complete control over the outcome. A finely tuned coil machine can even deliver soft, delicate lines that rival any rotary for finer work.

4. Durability and Longevity

Coil machines are built to last. With proper care and maintenance, they’ll serve you for years, making them a smart long-term investment. These machines require more attention to maintenance, but that’s a small price to pay for the power and precision they deliver. Keeping the springs tight, maintaining the armature bar, and regularly cleaning your machine ensures it stays in top condition, delivering flawless performance session after session.

5. Weight and Balance for Control

Coil machines can feel different compared to pen-style machines, mainly because of their weight and balance. While it may take some time to adjust, the added weight gives you the stability you need for precision work. The balance of a well-built coil machine also plays a huge role in your comfort during long sessions. Having the right balance reduces hand fatigue and helps you maintain steady control throughout the tattoo. Remember, balance isn’t just about comfort—it’s key to longevity in your tattoo career. A good setup means less strain on your body, leading to fewer injuries and more consistent work over time.

6. Raw Energy and Feedback

Coil machines provide constant feedback through their hum and pulse. The sound and feel of a coil machine running are distinct and help tattoo artists gauge the machine's performance as they work. That feedback allows you to fine-tune your technique, adjust the power, and ensure you're getting the right amount of penetration with every stroke. The pulse of the machine helps guide your hand and ensures that you're always in tune with the work you're creating.

7. Perfect for Traditional and Modern Styles

A coil tattoo machine’s versatility makes it a great tool for traditional tattoo styles, including bold outlines, color packing, and classic black-and-gray work. But it’s not just for old-school designs—coil machines are equally adept at modern tattoo techniques, like realistic portraits, fine line work, and detailed shading. This flexibility makes it a valuable addition to any artist's toolbox.

8. They’re Just F*cking Cool

Let’s face it— Handmade coil tattoo machines are just cool. There’s a certain rawness and authenticity to them. Tattooing is built on being cool, and coil machines bring a level of craftsmanship and power that just feels right. The sound, the feedback, the design—all of it screams artistry and skill. When you’re working with a coil machine, you’re not just using a tool, you’re wielding a piece of tattoo history that’s been perfected over the decades. Plus, there’s something about that heavy, mechanical feel that makes you feel like you’re really in control of the art you’re creating.

 Rotary vs. Coil Machines: What’s the Difference?

Coil vs Rotary Tattoo Machine: A Breakdown for Tattoo Artists

1. Power and Feedback

• Handmade Coil Tattoo Machines: Deliver a dynamic, raw power due to their electromagnetic coils, giving you that pulse and feedback with every hit. This real-time response allows for a deeper connection to your work and more control during the tattoo process.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Use a motor for continuous, smooth motion, providing a steady hum with less feedback. Ideal for long sessions and consistent shading, but the lack of feedback can be a challenge for those used to the punch of a coil.

2. Weight and Balance

•  Handmade Coil Tattoo Machines: Heavier and bulkier than rotary machines, but that weight adds a solid, grounded feel. It may take some time to get used to the balance, but once you adjust, you’ll find it reduces hand fatigue and gives you better control. Like driving a hot rod instead of a Prius—it’s not as easy, but it’s a more connected experience.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Lightweight, ergonomic, and comfortable for extended periods. Feels more like a pen-style machine, offering ease of use and reduced fatigue, but some artists feel it lacks the grounded feel of a coil machine.

3. Customization and Maintenance

• Coil Tattoo Machines: The regular upkeep actually adds to the magic of working with a coil machine. You’ll need to tune and maintain your machine, adjusting the springs, cleaning the parts, and fine-tuning settings. But this process is what makes it so rewarding—it allows you to become self-reliant and really understand the craft of tattooing. If you learn this skill, it will pay off x100 over a lifetime of tattooing. Some rotary machines can be worked on, but most coils can definitely be wrenched on and adjusted for that perfect personalized touch.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Low-maintenance and user-friendly, with fewer moving parts to worry about. They don’t offer the same customization options as coils, making them a solid, reliable choice for artists who don’t want to spend too much time maintaining their machines.

4. Speed and Versatility

• Coil Tattoo Machines: Known for their high-speed punch, making them perfect for lining and color packing. They are versatile for both bold outlines and delicate shading when tuned properly.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Best suited for shading and fine-line work with consistent, smooth strokes. While they don’t have the punch of a coil, their smooth delivery is perfect for softer, detailed work.

5. Noise and Vibration

• Handmade Coil Tattoo Machines: Produce a loud hum and noticeable vibration, which some artists appreciate for the feedback and connection to their work. It’s part of the experience, but the noise can be distracting during long sessions.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Quieter with less vibration, providing a smoother experience with less feedback. Ideal for artists who prefer a more discreet and gentle operation, but can lack the tactile feedback some coil users enjoy.

6. Tattoo Style Suitability

• Coil Tattoo Machines: Ideal for bold lines, color packing, and traditional tattoo styles. Their punchy hit is perfect for large, solid lines, but can be adjusted for softer shading and detailed work as well.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Great for shading, fine lines, and realistic tattoos. They excel at smooth shadingand detailed work where precision and smoothness are key.

7. Cool Factor

• Coil Tattoo Machines: Simply put, coil machines are just fucking cool. They represent the raw, mechanical side of tattooing—the craftsmanship, the tradition, and the skill required to keep them running at their best. Tattooing is built on being cool, and coils are a nod to that deep history.
• Rotary Tattoo Machines: Sleek, modern, and efficient. While they may not have the same old-school charm as coils, they’re cool in their own way—reliable, effective, and streamlined for a smooth experience.

 Common Questions About Coil Machines

1. What’s the main difference between coil and rotary machines?

• Coil machines use electromagnetic coils to create motion, offering a punchier, more tactile feedback with each hit. They tend to be heavier and require more maintenance but give you more control over the tattooing process. Rotary machines, on the other hand, use a motor to provide continuous, smooth motion, making them more low-maintenance but with less feedback. They’re lighter and easier to use for long sessions.

2. How do I get used to the weight of a coil machine?

• The weight and balance of a coil machine will feel different than a rotary, but give your hand time to adjust. Coil machines can feel heavy at first, but with time, that weight helps with control and reduces hand fatigue. Balance is key—finding a comfortable setup for you will improve the longevity of your career by building endurance and precision.

3. How do I maintain a coil tattoo machine?

• Coil machines require regular cleaning and tuning. You’ll need to check the springs, clean the coils, and adjust the contact points to keep the machine running smoothly. Learning to maintain a coil machine adds to the magic of tattooing, making you more self-reliant and skilled in your craft. While some rotary machines can be adjusted, coils are much more customizable.

4. What are the benefits of the feedback from a coil machine?

• Coil machines give real-time tactile feedback with each hit, which allows you to feel the work more directly. This feedback can be especially helpful for lining, packing color, or shading, where you can gauge the strength and depth of your strokes. If you’re used to a rotary machine, this extra feedback can take some getting used to but will enhance your precision once you adjust.

5. Are coil machines harder to tune than rotary machines?

• Coil machines do require more tuning and fine-tuning—you’ll need to adjust the springs, contact screw, and other components to get it just right. However, this is part of the craftsmanship that comes with working in coils. It’s not difficult once you learn, and it gives you more control over the machine's performance. Rotary machines are easier to set up and don’t require as much fine-tuning.

6. How can I get the best performance out of my coil machine?

• The key to getting the best performance from a coil machine is tuning it properly to your needs. This includes adjusting the spring tension, contact screw, and setting the right voltage for your needle size and style. Once you understand the inner workings of a coil machine, you can tweak it to get a more personalized performance.

7. Can coil machines be used for both lining and shading?

• Yes, coil machines are incredibly versatile. When tuned correctly, they can be used for both lining and shading. You can adjust the machine’s speed, stroke, and power to accommodate different techniques. Many coil machines excel at bold outlines, but you can also get fine, delicate shading by adjusting the settings and using the right needles.

8. How do coil machines compare to rotary machines for shading?

• While rotary machines are excellent for smooth shading and fine lines, coil machines can deliver intense, textured shading with more control. The added feedback and customization allow coil users to manipulate how deep or soft they want the shading to be. If you like the ability to experiment and fine-tune, a coil machine is an ideal choice for shading.

9. Are coil machines louder than rotary machines?

• Yes, coil machines tend to be louder due to the electromagnetic coils and mechanical parts at work. They make a distinctive buzzing sound that can be louder than a rotary machine’s hum. However, many tattoo artists actually enjoy the sound as it gives them a sense of rhythm and connection to their work.

10. How do I choose the right coil machine for my style?

• Choosing the right coil machine depends on the needle size, voltage, and stroke length you prefer. For larger needle groupings (like 9-14 needles), you’ll want a machine designed for medium to large needle configurations. Shading machines generally have a softer hit with a slower cycle, while liner machines offer a punchier, faster cycle. Look for a coil machine that offers the performance and customization you need for your preferred tattoo style.

11. Can I use a coil machine for both large tattoos and small details?

• Absolutely! Coil machines are highly customizable, meaning they can be tuned for both large areas and fine details. Adjusting the power and speed allows you to go from bold outlines to delicate details, making coil machines versatile for a variety of tattoo styles.

5. Take the Leap with Feldman Tool Co.

Switching to a coil machine isn’t just about trying a new tool—it’s about stepping into the legacy of tattooing. With their unmatched power, precision, and history, coil machines offer a tactile and transformative experience that connects you to the roots of the craft.

At Feldman Tool Co., we create coil machines that are as reliable and hardworking as the artists who use them. Every machine is handcrafted with precision and passion, blending tradition with modern engineering. Whether you’re new to coils or a seasoned pro, we’ve got the tools to help you elevate your artistry.

Explore our collection of coil tattoo machines today and feel the difference!