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You can build scales models of just about anything your imagination can come up with. Look at all of the models created to be used as special effects in Hollywood. The Tri-Corder (Star Trek), the advanced enemy stealth fighter (Firefox), and other first-of-their kind models, began in the builders’ imagination before being brought to life as scale models.

As scale modelers, we have the ability to apply our imagination and artistic impressions to our projects. Whether it be a fictional railroad short line, custom street rod or an aircraft with unique modifications or markings, the idea evolving from within our own imagination, can be scratch built and created as a three dimensional scale model. The picture at the right shows a finished model that began as a P-47 Thunderbolt, but was transformed to an Ariel Fire Fighter Director’s plane.

Let your ideas become the reality of tomorrow through scale modeling.

Each hobby has its own unique tool needs. Today I’ll share with you several tools to make your hobby projects more enjoyable.

A Track Cutter for Model Railroaders

First is one that is a must have for those who find building model railroad layouts a great and relaxing pastime. As with a real railroad, the track which the trains run on is a critically important component. So the model railroader needs a track cutter that is effortless to use and delivers a precise cut each and every time. Xuron’s 2175M Track Cutter does both.

A Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit

If your hobby includes stringing beads together, Xuron also has a tool kit suitable for you. The TK2400 Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit features three tools that are essential for stringing jewelry beads on to flexible stranded bead wire, cord, monofilament and thread. Packaged in a handy canvas pouch with pockets, these ergonomic tools have soft Xuro-Rubber™ hand grips and a Light-Touch™ return spring for cutting, holding, forming and looping tasks.

The tools in Xuron’s TK2400 Bead Stringer’s Tool Kit include the Model 410 Micro-Shear® Flush Cutter for soft wire up to 18 AWG, flexible stranded bead wire, craft wire, cord & monofilament; the Model 450 Tweezernose™ Pliers for bending and forming and holding jump rings, split rings and small beads; and Model 488 Round Nose Pliers for looping and forming wire.

Tools for Cutting Carbon Fiber

If you’re into building RC projects, you’re probably aware that some of the composite materials being used today are lighter and stronger than previously used materials, and that this creates some some challenges when cutting and shaping them. Carbon fiber, for example, is lightweight and very strong, yet is difficult to cut with conventional tools. Not anymore; Xuron answers the challenge with tools for cutting carbon fiber materials.

Their model 9180 Scissor is for cutting strip between .019” and .034” thick and the Model 2193 Shear will cut rod from .20”-.80” diameter and .060” ID tube. These tools create a square cut on strip and rod, but it is recommended users insert a properly sized wire inside the tube before cutting to prevent the thin walls from crushing.

Featuring one serrated edge, the Xuron Model 9180 grips the carbon material for faster and easier cutting. Xuron’s Model 2193 is a full by-pass shear designed specifically for cutting hard materials. Standard features for both tools include ergonomic handles, cushioned Xuro-Rubber™ grips, return springs and precision ground high carbon steel blades.

The right tool for the job makes the project more enjoyable. Visit your local hobby shop for these and other specialized hobby tools from Xuron today.

Having the right tools at your disposal makes all the difference when building realistic plastic scale models. In this video from Hawkeye’s Hobbies, you’ll learn what tools are essential when applying decals.

Whether you are a dad looking for a way to connect with your son, or a grandpa looking for a way to connect with your grandson, scale model hobbies are a wonderful way to make that connection. Scale model hobbies include everything from trains to cars, planes to ships, and houses to cities. To start, simply go to your local hobby store and ask to be directed to the scale model section. Then, go crazy!

Scale model hobbies make great gifts, whether you are giving the finished project or giving the model to a loved one. Depending on your experience level, you can get a complicated one or one that is not as complicated. Overall, it really is a great present for almost any occasion. Imagine sitting down with your model and your son or daughter to put it together as a family.

Scale model hobbies are a wonderful way to spend extra time you might have in a functional way. Some people devote their lives to recreating the city in which they reside as a scale model. Some people just want to recreate their first car to put on a display. Those who have a fascination with ships or planes also find a wonderful outlet. The greatest part about this hobby is that most model kits come with everything you need including paint and glue. Therefore, it is a hobby that is easy to get started on. Virtually all you will need is a little spare time and you’re on your way!

Photo Credit: T-33 Shooting Star by Art G. on Hawkeye’s Hobbies

Related Posts: Realistic Replicas Begin with Detailed Plastic Model Kits

If you grew up playing with LEGOs® and watching Star Wars™, you probably wondered why it took so long for the two to be put together. In 1999 we finally got our wish when the Lego Group licensed Star Wars properties from Lucasfilm. The first product of this alliance was Star Wars LEGOs.

Since the original product release there has been an explosion of new products not only for the new prequel trilogy, but also for the classic Trilogy that has enthralled untold millions over the years. As one would imagine the first products were immediate runaway successes and now dozens of new Star Wars LEGOs products compete in virtually numerous markets ranging from the traditional LEGOs to modern video games running on everything from handheld gaming systems to personal computers!

An entire fan culture has grown up around this unique fusion of LEGOs and Star Wars replete with professional and fan-made Machinima movies. The movies range from comedies to interesting ‘what if…’ scenarios, but aren’t the only content to crop up to support the ever increasing fan base. Everything from Star Wars LEGOs wallpapers to comic books are available, and of course the actual products themselves.

Currently dominating the top sellers list are products based off the current hit TV series, The Clone Wars. There are still plenty of products from the original series and the prequel trilogy, and the ability to mix and match from different eras is one of the greatest appeals of the products. After all, who doesn’t want to see a squad of Republic AT-TE walkers take on an Imperial AT-AT with its AT-ST escorts?

Everyone who has seen any of the timeless Star Wars movies probably won’t have any trouble dreaming up a fantasy that can only be realized when they’re given the ability to build it themselves. Whether the fantasy is Darth Vader fighting Boba Fett or a rematch between Emperor Palpatine and Master Yoda, they’re all possible. What is your Star Wars fantasy?

Photo Credit: kevindooley on flickr

Related Pages: General Interest Hobbies