Understanding Stroke Length for Coil & Rotary Tattoo Machines – A Complete Guide
What is Stroke Length?
Stroke length, also called “throw,” is the distance a tattoo machine’s needle travels in a single cycle. In coil machines, it’s the movement of the armature bar before it drives the needle forward. In rotary machines, it’s determined by the rotation of the cam wheel, which sets how far the needle extends. Though measured in just millimeters, this distance plays a critical role in the speed, force, and overall performance of the machine.
Why Stroke Length Matters
Stroke length directly affects how a tattoo machine performs. A shorter stroke moves the needle faster and applies less force, which is gentler on the skin and ideal for delicate work. A longer stroke moves more slowly but delivers greater impact, driving ink deeper in fewer passes. The right stroke length ensures clean, consistent lines, smooth shading, and optimal pigment saturation, matching the machine’s performance to the artist’s technique and style.
Types of Stroke Lengths
Stroke lengths are generally categorized as short, medium, or long, each serving different purposes in tattooing. Short strokes (1.8mm–2.5mm) are fast and gentle, perfect for soft shading, smooth gradients, realism, and permanent makeup. Medium strokes (around 3.5mm) balance speed and power, making them versatile for both lining and shading, as well as a good choice for beginners. Long strokes (4.0mm and above) deliver strong, deliberate needle movement, ideal for bold outlines and deep color packing. Understanding these differences allows artists to match their machine’s stroke length to the demands of each design.
Short Stroke (1.8mm – 2.5mm)
Short strokes deliver quick needle movement with a light impact, minimizing skin trauma while allowing for precise, delicate work. They excel in soft shading, smooth gradients, black-and-gray realism, and permanent makeup applications. Machines like the Ultron 4 Pro offer adjustable short stroke settings, giving artists the flexibility to fine-tune performance for intricate detailing and gentle color application.
Medium Stroke (3.5mm)
Medium strokes provide a balanced combination of speed and power, making them highly versatile. They work well for both lining and shading, delivering consistent pigment saturation without excessive skin trauma. This stroke length is often preferred by beginners for its forgiving nature, yet it remains a reliable choice for experienced artists handling varied tattoo styles. Machines like the Ultron Alpha are designed with a stable 3.5mm stroke, making them suitable for artists who want one machine capable of handling most tasks.
Long Stroke (4.0mm and above)
Long strokes move the needle with more force and precision, driving ink deep into the skin in fewer passes. This makes them ideal for bold outlines, large solid color fills, and styles that require strong, consistent lines. Due to the increased impact, they are best suited for experienced artists with a steady hand. The Avenger series offers long stroke options that deliver the power needed for traditional, neo-traditional, and other bold tattoo styles.
How to Adjust Stroke Length
For Coil Machines
Adjusting stroke length on a coil machine involves fine-tuning the contact screw and front spring. Increasing the gap between the armature bar and the contact point results in a longer stroke, while decreasing the gap produces a shorter stroke. This mechanical adjustment allows artists to customize performance to match the specific needs of each tattoo.
For Rotary Machines
Many rotary machines use interchangeable cam wheels or adjustable stroke dials, enabling quick changes to stroke length. Some models allow on-the-fly adjustments during a session, making it easy to switch between lining, shading, and color packing without changing machines.
Choosing the Right Stroke Length for Your Style
Selecting the ideal stroke length depends on the tattoo style and desired outcome. Short strokes are best for realism, black-and-gray shading, and fine detail work. Medium strokes suit a wide range of applications, from precise linework to smooth color packing. Long strokes are perfect for bold outlines, large fills, and traditional designs. Experimenting with different settings will help you understand how each stroke length interacts with your technique, allowing you to achieve consistent, high-quality results across various tattoo styles.
From Setup to Masterpiece
Mastering stroke length is essential for achieving precision, consistency, and efficiency in tattooing. Whether you specialize in delicate shading, versatile all-around work, or bold, high-impact designs, the right stroke length will enhance your technique and final results. Vlad Blad machines are built to give artists the control and reliability needed to match their creative vision. Experiment with different settings, refine your skills, and let your machine work in harmony with your style.
Read the original guide on stroke length.
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