IPMS/USA Reviews

If you build models you are probably very familiar with Micro-Mark. Not only do they carry a wide range of modeling tools but also offer several kits in different media.

When starting a model getting the parts off the sprue cleanly helps lower the amount of clean up you need to do so finding a good sprue cutter is a great start. This product is manufactured by Fujiya out of Japan.

I tried it out on a kit I am working on for a review and it did a great job. The 25-degree angle gives good control to get up next to the part no matter the placement on the sprue. The cut was clean, but you need to make sure you are even with the part edge or you will live a bit of the connection.

They also advertise that this is a great tool for cutting soft wire but I didn't have any available to test it on. My only concern from other products is once you cut metal it may not work as well on plastic later on. I will be looking forward to seeing how well it holds it edge over time.

The handle is coated with a rubber like material that is comfortable to the touch and adds a good grip to help keep the tool from slipping in your hand.

This is a photoetch template set for use scribing/engraving square type features on any subject plastic model. This set with one sheet with 4 smaller templates within it.

In the packet includes

• 1 photoetch sheet

Summary

This is a fantastic set for added some great additional details features to any kit or replacing engraved squares lost due to sanding and filling. They are easy to use and flexible to form around most shapes and surfaces.

Thanks go to Eduard for providing this set to review and IPMS USA for allowing me to review it for them.

Sealing the paint before decals and weathering a model is an important step in preventing damage the base coat. Ammo by Mig Jimenez has released a line of acrylic varnishes (finishes) that are easy to use and are nontoxic. Here is the description from their catalog:

Ammo by Mig Jimenez has released a new line of primers that are formulated to be applied in one layer or "One Shot" as the bottle says. Ammo says this is formulated with a high gripping power that is self-leveling. They come in larger 60 ml bottle. It can be sanded after drying for 24 hours, does not need thinning, is non-toxic and has a no drip cap. I must not be pouring it incorrectly, because I had a lot of drips, then it splattered when I closed the lid. I wish it came in eye-dropper style bottle like their paint does. I tested the black #2023 and the grey #2024.

Ammo by Mig Jimenez has developed a line of oil paints that are already thinned and come in a clear bottle with a brush attached to the cap. Here is their description for these oilbrusher: