Quality Tubes / Tips are essential parts of tattooing - they guide the needle, control ink flow, improve hygiene and precision. At Lockdown Needle, our range of tattoo tubes, tips, grips, and combined units is designed for artists who demand quality, consistency, and safety. Whether you prefer disposable setups for fast clean-up, or reusable metal components for sustainability and control, we’ve got you covered.
What are the different types of tip / tube styles and what are they used for?
Round tips: The most commonly used tip, like a pen point. Our tips have our bespoke ink-wells which allow smooth ink flow for longer periods of time.
Angled tips: V-shaped opening that holds the needle more securely; excellent for fine lining with liner needles. Also great where bolder and sculpted lines are required due to being able to see the needle tip before it protrudes the tip, into the skin.
Open Flat tips: Straight edge; used for magnum needle groups. Good for coverage, shading, or geometric work. These have an open top, great visibility.
Box Flat tips: Straight edge; used for magnum needle groups. Good for coverage, shading, or geometric work. These have boxed / closed top, preferred by many due to needle stability.
What’s the difference between disposable vs autoclavable (reusable) tubes & tips?
Disposable: Pre-sterilised, single use; no need to autoclave or clean deeply. Good for hygiene, fast turnarounds, travel, conventions.
Autoclavable / reusable: Made from steel or other metals; must be cleaned, disinfected, and autoclaved between uses. Higher upfront cost, but over time can be more economical & reduce waste.
How do I match needle sizes / configurations to tube tip size?
The opening of the tip must be wide enough for the needle configuration to pass through without binding; too large an opening risks instability and excessive ink flow, too small won’t allow the needle to run smoothly, or ink to flow nicely.
We recommend matching needle size to tube where possible, except for hollow, and loose hollow configurations where we recommend sizing up where possible.
Which materials are best for tubes & tips?
Surgical / stainless steel: highly durable, autoclavable, good for reusable setups.
Plastic or rigid plastic + metal tip combos: available in disposables and sometimes in mixed reusable setups; lighter, often cheaper.
Rubber or non-slip grips: help with handling, especially during long sessions, reduce slippage and hand fatigue.
How often should I replace or properly maintain tubes & tips?
Disposable units: Replace every single use.
Reusable metal tubes/tips/grips: Clean after every session, autoclave before each reuse, inspect for damage (scratches, dents) which can affect hygiene and performance.
Replace reusable parts when they become worn, damaged, or difficult to sterilise.
