Sandblasting large amounts is tough on the average air compressor. You need at least five horsepower. That is a real five horsepower not the current rating system where a 2-3 horse motor is called a five.

I only use the two stage ones for serious work but have a cheap vertical that cost about 600.00 new as well. That compressor spins too fast and I have to wait for it to recharge even with an old binks 18 spray gun. Todays high volume low pressure spray guns take a lot of air volume.

That compressor again is fairly new and called a five horsepower but really it is not. I take it out on small jobs because it only weighs about two hundred pounds. Basically designed just for light intermittent use.

Best ideal is too keep an eye open for a good used one that is not too old. As mentioned used reasonably they can last a person a lifetime. They sell a lot of basically just toy compressors today. Usually real compressors have two belts on their motor drive. Do not buy a compressor with an aluminium head. Real compressors have decent sized heads as well and do not turn that fast. Places like craiglist and ebay may be worth looking for one. Ex service station compressors can be good buys depending on age and how they were used.