Tools, tips and tricks

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Knife blade source

Fri, 2018-02-23 13:15 — Graham Line

Blades in the most recent package from a well-known name seem to hold a sharp edge for three or four cuts -- generally in the past I have gotten through a wood or styrene project with one or two blades.

What suggestions do the model builders in the crowd have for a blade that can hold its edge, and might even response to a little touch-up with a sharpening stone?

6 comments

Unusual or Cross Hobby Tools

Fri, 2018-02-23 12:43 — Photo Bud

On another forum, we had a post about unusual and cross hobby/jobs tools that were of benefit to model railroaders. I would like to see what others here have to offer as well.

To start off with, here are some ancient surgical tweezers (from about 75 years ago) that I use often! I wouldn't sell them for any amount. My dad got these when he was a medic in WWII. As can be seen, they lock on things up to about a 1/8". Invaluable for placing small items.

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Layout Sound for DC only no on-board sound cards

Thu, 2018-02-22 06:44 — cap3344

Building my first HO layout (4x8 table top, 2 mainlines). Some of my equipment is pre 1950 Steam loco built by my Dad. No way I am taking those apart to try to add sound cards. My newer stuff none is DCC ready, hence my 7 block DC layout w/ 2 CABs.

Seams in Masonite Wall Panels

Wed, 2018-02-21 06:09 — railandsail

Seams in Masonite Wall Panels

I have a little different problem, but related. I am covering the insulated walls and ceiling in my 12x16 train shed with 4x8 sheets of 1/8" masonite stapled to the 2x4 studs of the shed.

Glue Options

Tue, 2018-02-20 05:45 — GregW66

I am building a wood kit for the first time in years. I decided to do some experiments with glue. I have for a long time used Weldbond. I have been happy with it but I am looking for something new and I won't find something better if I don't experiment.

I tried ordinary Elmer's Carpenter's Wood Glue. I was gluing some delicate wood parts together and it didn't hold well. Being a "hard" glue I think it was too brittle for my application. I found it fantastic for gluing bracing to wood siding though.