I like lacquers better, as they seem to be more durable. However, acrylic are a lot easier to work with and a darn site easier to clean up from. 2 Part Epoxy from Jann's is an excellent finish coat.
I leave my paint in the bottle and add to it. If you are using enamel or laquer paints you may need to add thinner occasionally as it may evaporate some. I use a small dowel rod to plug my hole on the paasche type bottles.
PowerCat has a great dual action brush. I bought their compressor and the air brush came with it. Tried it ou and it works great. Can be purchsed on ebay.