Squadron tools

Bish

When it comes to cutters, i would really recommend the newer PE and Sprue cutters from Xuron, the ones designed by Hawkeye.

Ditto on the PE cutters. Love those things.

Can't agree on the sprue cutters, unfortunately. I like them well enough, and frequently use them for a "first pass" removing parts from the sprue since they cut through so easily. BUT the scissor action doesn't cut anywhere near as close as I'd like, so when it's cleanup time, I break out my Tamiya sprue cutters. About a third of the time, I can get the cut so flush that I don't even have to sand. The rest of the time, usually just a swipe or two with a sanding stick is all that's needed. 

Roger that, I highly recommend the PE and Sprue cutters from Xuron, the big ones designed by Hawkeye.  Other than that, I have no problem recommending other Squadron tools, such as tweezers, etc. 

Tweezers tend to get messed up with glue and paint in a short time, so no sense spending a lot of money for "premium" ones.

When it comes to cutters, i would really recommend the newer PE and Sprue cutters from Xuron, the ones designed by Hawkeye.

The best tweezers (pick-ups) I have I got from my wife.  She works in a Cardiovascular OR (She's NOT a nurse, though).  They throw tons of stuff away.  If they open their surgical packs and the surgery is cancelled, a lot of things just get thrown out.  She supplies our Vet with a lot of towels and laps and such that would otherwise go to waste. 

Many suture packs come with some of the best pick-ups you've ever seen.  They are disposable, though, so are usually thrown out.  They are stainless and have a fine, curved tip.  They're great.  I've also gotten a great set of titanium pickups that got thrown across the OR by the surgeon who wasn't happy with them.  I straightened out the tip, and they work great.

So, what does all this mean? If you know someone who works in a hospital, ask around.  They may know someone who works in the OR and can get some of these little jewels when they're thrown out.  Usually, they're not used, but if they are, wash them, and you're good to go.

Gene Beaird,
Pearland, Texas

Oh yeah, i'm all about the sanding sticks. Those are great. Best i've ever used.

Dumont makes great tweezers in a variety of shapes. they are expensive, but they are definitely worth it.

Thanks! I will check out the tamiya tools.  I wanted to try their primer and paint but somehow they are working on a shortage.  When dealing with tools I dont mind spending just a little bit more for that extra quality.  Again, thanks for the reply.

I've had a number of Squadron tools.  Some are ok, some I've throw away.  Here's my opinion of some of the tools:

Sprue Cutters (both of them) - didn't like 'em.  I think the Xuron, Testors and Tamiya ones are better

Tweezers - pretty good, I would recommend them.  Tamiya has great tweezers for PE work, but expensive

Sanding Sticks - best ones I've used

Pliers - way too expensive but ok quality

Vises - no idea.  Seen them in a store and didn't like them

Pin vise - ok, pretty standard ones, would buy them again

Scissors - same as above

Files - same as above

The Spatula set, seam scraper, glue applicator and other tools like that are good to go.

Now my favorite tools are the ones made by Tamiya.  Their tools are expensive though but I think the price is worth it.  If you interested in the Tamiya tools, check www.luckymodel.com.  Their prices are much less than in the US.  You might pay a little more for shipping then normal but overall the price is better.  Plus their selection is better than places like Squadron or Great Models. 

Hope this helps some,

Jesse