I just got my compressor put back together, on a tank that actually has a drain valve so maybe it won't rust out.

My $19.95 Horror Freight regulator is broken, though.  Anyone have opinions on what's a good cost-effective regulator?  I admit that I haven't looked to see what the name-brand regulators cost (and I don't even know what name brand is any more -- Binks and DeVillbiss come to mind, but I'm probably just showing my age).

I'm looking for something that'll work well enough to occasionally squirt dope, and won't break just from sitting on a shelf for a while.

Spend a few extra bucks and get one with a filter/water trap on it:

https://www.harborfreight.com/38-in-air-filter-with-regulator-68232.html

Hint I have not had good long term luck with any brand where the water collection bowl was plastic

I still have two that have a GLASS bowl (sears) and over 30 years old....STILL WORKING FINE

The plastic bowls deteriorate in less than 2~3 years....Chemical vapors in shop? Thermal cycling? I don't know