DougC1,

I bougth a really cheap HVLP spray gun, for sure it is made in China. But it does the job just fine for me. These are the specs:

Inlet pressure max: 3.0 bar
Air consumption: 3.0 - 5.0 cfm
Air inlet thread 1/4"
Fluid tip (we would call it Jet size): 0.8mm
Cup volume: 125ml
Weight: 250g
Jet and needle from stainless steel

Compressor: This is very cheap 1 cylinder no-name thing, providing max 8bar. Vessel size is 25 litres, about 6.5 gallons. The pressure regulator just needs to be set to 3 bar, and you are ready to go. Gun, mask and compressor together is less than 120$, I would say.

Yes definitely try to spray some card board or plain wood plank first, to get a feeling for the possible adjustments at the spray gun. Environment was my garage, in the autumn it was still warm enough. Do not forget to wear a suitable mask, made for spraying!!!