[Kiwiman]

Most of the flat boxes on the market are similar and do a great job doing what they're designed for. I've used Columbia, TT, Blueline, but always favored Columbia. All work well as long as they're set up and used properly. Going with a 10" and then a 12" seems to produce better results, but can easily get away with 8" to 10", or even a double 10" for textured surfaces. Being that you'll dump more mud on the 1st coat, I'd grab up a Columbia Fat Boy 10" and then use a Columbia 12" for the second coat. But like anything, you're gonna find a system that works for you. Mess around with your flat box settings also, make sure your not crowning the first coat too heavily, and also make sure you're putting enough down. Go with what produces the best results and stick with it as long as you do this trade. Don't ever forget about your hand tools though, a combination of the automatic tools and hand tools produce the best results. Cheers, and good luck!

Good first post :thumbsup: welcome aboard.