Hawkeye’s Squawkbox

As modelers we are always striving to find a better end result in our craft. Part of which is accomplished in our use of techniques as well as tools. Let’s talk tools for a moment.

Modeling tools range from the basic hobby knife to the purpose designed Photo Etch benders. Over the years I have collected probably as many tools as I have kits…well there was a tipping point where the kits surpassed the tools, but needless to say I have a lot.

As with my mechanics tools, I’ve found that there are some that accomplish the task at hand that are not “brand named” tools. I don’t need to spend the extra to get a more precise tool. Yet, there are instances when you do need a quality brand name tool to accomplish the job.

The same goes for those tools for my modeling. I have a collection of “bargain bin” tools that accomplish the task for which I purchased them to do. However, after years of use they are not functioning as well as they once did. Then again neither am I. Sure I could go out and find a suitable bargain bin replacement, but will they continue to match my skill sets?

I guess I’ve begun to take a more critical eye on both business and personal economics. Our economy has been flooded with “bargain products” which has created a detrimental trade surplus. So now I give careful consideration to the products I purchase, not to say I am boycotting imports, I just weigh the need more carefully before I spend my money.

Which leads me to a few of my top picks of the tools I use; they include Xuron, Excel and The Small Shop. As I have advanced in skill, I have found it necessary for the tools I use to be better in performance and quality.

Xuron offers some of the best, pliers, shears, scissors and cutters I have ever used. Understand that these
products are primarily used in production facilities around the world so they must be durable as well as precise.

Excel offers in my opinion blades that hold their sharp edge longer than their competitors. Their knife handles are not only comfortable in one’s hand but they also hold the blades securely. There is nothing more frustrating and dangerous as a blade that wiggles while performing a delicate task.

It took me a long time to justify the purchase of a PE bending jig. I didn’t do a whole lot of PE in my builds…but. When you look at the costs of such PE sets, you quickly learn that a mistake can be costly. So, I decided that I needed the right tool for the job. In this case I went to the best, The Small Shop and purchased one of their many such bending devices. It has made things much easier and less frustrating due to PE bending mishaps.

Yes, you can say I am endorsing these tools. Why? Well it is because modelers are always asking me what I use and why. So when I have successes with products I advocate their use. Be an educated consumer and invest in your modeling resources wisely.

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