Yes they're made in Spain. They are actually built very well. I, personally, would put them right up there with Sata and Iwata and I've owned them all. I've converted a few local shops over to them. But like anything in life, everyone has a different feel and style they prefer. And every brand has a dud here and there. I don't care for Sata's new offerings. But the 3000's and 5000's were nice. Iwata I'm still a w400/lph guy. But everyone is different.
I got sold on Sata's after buying a 2000RP and 2000HVLP new back in 1999or 2000 (I forget). Both of those guns lasted forever using them day in day out. Both had no gaskets to replace or funky plastic pieces like all of the competitions guns did. Prior to that I used a Devilbiss, a Sharpe Platinum, (heaven forbid) and a Binks (can't remember the model name) I could never get more than a couple of months of use out of those guns without replacing a gasket or a plastic piece of some sort. Real PITA when you rely on your guns to earn your living. After switching to the SATA's, and spending almost $1500 for the two guns, I could not believe their toughness, combined with how well they sprayed. (RP 1.3-clear, HVLP 1.3 base)
I would break them down after every 3rd use and clean and lube them and they were good to go. RP lasted over 10 years, until I dropped it once and damaged the needle and nozzle. Being that I had another, I retired that one. HVLP I used day in day out for over 13 years! Replaced the needle/nozzle assy one time after about 9 years. Still have the HVLP and it still sprays well. Keep in mind this was day in day out use.
The machine work on Sata's is so superior to anything else out IMO. Good machining eliminates the need for the gaskets that you see on needles and nozzles. As is the castings they use. Plus they spray so well. Currently have a 2000 RP 1.3 (not my original one but have had it for a looong time) 5000 RP 1.3, and a X5500 HVLP 1.3I. And additional needle nozzles sets for the 5000 and 5500. All their stuff is still made in Germany and still very high quality.
They spray as good as anything out there and they last. If you need parts nearly any jobber can get parts for you. Those are the reasons I really like Sata's over other guns. Occasional use other guns may come close at leass money but over the long haul nothing beats a Sata. Just my opinion.
