Maverick ZINE — Tattoo Culture, Art & Artist Stories

Precision and Pepper: A Guide to #10 Bugpin (BP) Cartridges

At the end of the day, we do what we do because we love the craft. There’s a specific kind of magic that happens when you’re building a smooth-as-smoke gradient or a hyper-realistic portrait. Reaching that level of detail requires a "paintbrush" that hits a little softer and allows for more control. Part of finding your own unique style is staying open to trying different diameters—experimenting with our #10 Bugpin (BP) series is how many artists unlock a new level of smoothness in their work.

If you’ve been looking for a needle that allows for multiple passes with minimal trauma and maximum detail, the Bugpin is the tool for your setup.

What Exactly is a Bugpin (BP)?

At Maverick, our Bugpin (BP) series uses #10 (0.30mm) needles. These are thinner than our #12 Standard pins, which means they have a smaller footprint on the skin.

Because the needles are thinner, they are grouped closer together within the cartridge. This tighter density creates a "peppered" effect when shading, allowing you to layer tones and build depth without the risk of chewing up the skin.

Why You Should Experiment with Bugpin Configurations

We always encourage artists to step outside their usual setup. Even if you’re a bold traditional artist, having a few Bugpin configurations in your drawer can change how you approach soft textures or transitions.

The Detail Advantage

When you’re working on micro-realism or tiny script, the BP5CM or BP7CM gives you a level of precision that a standard #12 simply can't match. It allows you to get into those tight spaces with surgical accuracy.

Smooth, Layered Gradients

Because Bugpins hit softer, they are the gold standard for black and grey realism. You can go over an area multiple times to build up a range of grey washes, creating those "glass-smooth" blends that make a tattoo pop.

Large-Scale Heavy Hitters

We don't just do small detail needles. We offer a massive range that goes all the way up to BP45CM and BP45FM. If you’re doing large-scale black-fill or heavy saturation on a backpiece, these massive mags allow you to pack solid with the refined, low-trauma touch of a #10 needle.

The Maverick Standard: Like everything in our shop, every Bugpin needle is a long taper, precision-polished needle. We don't settle for anything less than a flawless finish because we know a smoother needle means a better heal for your client.

The Maverick Bugpin (BP) Collection

We offer an incredible range of #10 Bugpin configurations, vetted for the shop:

• BP5CM, BP7CM, BP9CM, BP11CM, BP13CM, BP15CM, BP17CM, BP19CM, BP23CM, BP27CM, BP39CM, BP45CM, BP45FM

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Quality Vetted by Experience

While our team isn't the one behind the machine, we are dedicated to making sure the gear you get is flawless. We manage every detail from our home base in Las Vegas to ensure Maverick gear supports your best work.

• Silicone Membrane: High-performance backflow protection to keep your machine clean and your ink flow consistent.

• EO-Gas Sterilized: Individually packaged because safety is non-negotiable in a professional shop.

• Universal Fit: Ready to lock into all major rotary and cartridge machines.

The Maverick Difference

• Tattooer Owned: Founded by Austin, a 26-year veteran of the industry.

• Vetted Quality: Every product is personally tested and approved by Austin.

• Free U.S. Shipping: No minimums. No fine print.

• Fast Fulfillment: Order by 1 PM PST, and we ship it the same day.

Final Thoughts

Finding your own unique style means never being afraid to try a different tool. If you haven't run a #10 Bugpin for your shading yet, give them a shot. You might find that the softer hit is exactly what your realism work has been missing.

Try them. Then decide.

Shop the Bugpin (BP) Collection →

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