Complete guide: Big Wasp X M1 Cartridge Needles
This is a needle cartridge in magnum configuration (M1) from the X series of the Big Wasp brand, designed for shading and color filling on surfaces. The needles are made of 316L stainless steel, the cartridge body is made of transparent medical-grade plastic, and each piece comes individually packaged and sterilized with EO gas. The silicone membrane with anti-return function prevents ink and fluids from rising towards the grip and machine. It is compatible with most rotary machines with a cartridge system and is suitable for both experienced artists and beginners working on their shading technique.
How to use
- Check the integrity of the sterile packaging before opening: if the blister is punctured, swollen, or damaged, do not use the cartridge.
- Prepare the work station hygienically: disposable gloves, protective barriers on the machine, grip, and cable, disinfected surfaces.
- Open the blister from the grip side and insert the cartridge into the rotary machine's grip until it locks firmly, without touching the tip.
- Start the machine at low speed and visually check through the transparent body that the needle slides freely and the grouping looks correct.
- Dip the tip into the pigment cup; the cartridge is built for good absorption capacity and a constant ink flow.
- Work the shading and filling with uniform movements, specific to magnum needles, letting the ink flow constantly feed the tip.
- When changing color, rinse the tip in clean rinse water and wipe it on a disposable towel before the next pigment.
- At the end of the session, remove the cartridge and dispose of it in the sharps waste container — it is a single-use product.
Tips from us
- Choose the magnum grouping size according to the work surface: smaller groupings for narrow areas and transitions, larger groupings for broad fills.
- Use the advantage of the transparent cartridge: constantly monitor the tip and ink flow to maintain even saturation.
- Even though the anti-return membrane protects the grip and machine, do not skip disposable barriers — they are complementary protective layers, not alternatives.
- Store sealed boxes in a dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight, so the sterile packaging remains intact until use.
- If switching from another brand of cartridges, test first on synthetic skin — each cartridge behaves differently on the same machine and voltage.
Warning: Single-use product, delivered sterile (EO gas sterilization). Do not resterilize or reuse it under any circumstances — reuse poses a real risk of infection and cross-contamination. Do not use cartridges with damaged or unsealed packaging. Always work with gloves, on a hygienically prepared station, and dispose of used cartridges exclusively in dedicated sharps waste containers, in accordance with tattoo studio regulations.
Frequently asked questions
What does 'M1' mean on this cartridge?▾
M1 is the standard notation for the magnum configuration: the needles are arranged in rows, forming a wider working surface than with a liner or round shader. That is why magnums are the usual choice for shading, gradients, and color filling on surfaces, not for fine lines.
Is it compatible with my tattoo machine?▾
Big Wasp X cartridges are compatible with most rotary machines that use the standard cartridge system. If your machine accepts universal cartridges (pen or rotary with cartridge grip), the cartridge should lock firmly without play. If you have a machine that exclusively accepts proprietary cartridges, check your machine's specifications before ordering.
Can I sterilize and reuse the cartridge for a future session?▾
No. It is a single-use product, individually sterilized with EO gas at the factory. A used cartridge cannot be properly resterilized in studio conditions — even autoclaving is not a solution, because the materials and internal membrane are not designed for that. One cartridge = one client = one session, then it goes to sharps waste.
Are these cartridges suitable for a beginner?▾
Yes, the manufacturer recommends them for both professionals and beginners. As a beginner, you have the advantage of the transparent body, which helps you see exactly what the needle is doing and how the ink flows. However, working with magnum requires angle and pressure technique, so practice first on synthetic skin before working on real skin.
What is the silicone membrane in the cartridge for?▾
The membrane acts as an anti-return barrier: it prevents ink, blood, and other fluids from rising through the cartridge toward the grip and machine. This reduces the risk of equipment contamination and helps you maintain station hygiene. Additionally, the membrane system contributes to more stable and quieter needle operation.
How do I properly store the cartridges until use?▾
Keep them in their individual sealed packaging, in a dry, clean place, away from moisture, heat, and direct sunlight. Sterility is guaranteed only as long as the blister remains intact — an unsealed, punctured, or deformed package means that cartridge should not be used, no matter how new it is.
Product description
The Big Wasp X needles have high quality materials, stability, clarity, durability, precision and ergonomic design. The intricate details created with a single needle are beyond the imagination of any tattoo artist. Premium needle quality configured for precise and detailed work, suitable for both professionals and beginners. Compatible with most rotary tattoo machines. Each needle is individually wrapped and sterilized with EO gas for safety. Made of high quality 316 stainless steel and medical grade plastic for durability and reliability. The stable and anti-return design with the silicone membrane and stabilizer ensures a consistent tattooing experience. Membrane needles - made with an advanced silica gel system Reduces noise during operation Characteristics:316L stainless steel needles Cartridges made of transparent plastic High cough absorption capacity Excellent fluidity of the cough Long-term stability The tip of the needle keeps the sharpness High strength needles Safe and clear cartridges Leak-resistant membrane, easy visibility of the needle Material: Stainless steel Sterile packed Disposable product
Big Wasp X M1 Cartridge Needles represent the latest generation in Big Wasp's magnum lineup, engineered for tattoo artists demanding consistent performance during shading and color packing sessions. The X series brings significant improvements over the Evolved predecessor: a redesigned safety membrane with enhanced anti-backflow system, laser-welded needles with tighter tolerances (under 0.01mm variation), and a smooth-return piston mechanism that reduces unwanted vibrations. The M1 configuration arranges needles in two staggered rows using standard #12 gauge (0.35mm), providing optimal coverage area for solid fills and color transitions. The medium-long taper ensures steady ink flow — ink enters the skin progressively without bursting or starvation. Universal compatibility with all pen-style and rotary machines using standard grips: Cheyenne Sol Nova, FK Irons Xion, Bishop Fantom, Dragonhawk Mast Tour, EZ P2S, and many more. Compared to Cheyenne Craft M1, Big Wasp X delivers similar performance at a considerably lower price, sacrificing only marginally on lot-to-lot consistency. Against Kwadron M1, which remains the premium benchmark, Big Wasp X comes closer than any other mid-range competitor. Available in configurations from 7M1 through 15M1, covering the full spectrum from medium detail work to large area coverage. Recommended for intermediate and professional artists working in realism, neo-traditional, or Japanese styles. Individual EO sterilization, lot-numbered packaging, CE compliant. Each box contains 20 cartridges.
Frequently Asked Questions