Below are some of my favorite tools and materials for model building and layout construction.
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NEW Weller 5-30 W Soldering Iron Station
Weller’s latest version of their adjustable wattage iron for electronics and light soldering. Perfect for most model railroad applications–DCC, track, feeders, and more.
Bachman Magnetic Corner Clamps: Set of 4
Amazing magnetic gluing clamps hold corners at exactly 90 degrees. Open corners allow for easy access for gluing. I use these on every structure I build, whether kit, kit bashed, or scratch built.
This is a HUGE set of sanding sticks in both twig and emery board styles. Both sizes come in 7 grits–80, 100, 120, 180, 240, 320, and 400.
Every model builder needs these. Perfect for removing parts from sprues and removing gates or flash from kit parts, they greatly reduce the need for sanding.
Highly accurate digital level measures in degrees, percentage of grade, or rise/run in both imperial and metric. Magnetic “V” groove bottom holds to metal surfaces. Also includes bubbles levels. A MUST for model railroad benchwork, track grades, helixes, as well as household applications.
The Touch-N-Flow Applicator lays a super fine bead of cement in model joints for beautiful results without marring plastic surfaces. Perfect for applying solvent cement to plastic model joints.
Quick-Grip Mini Clamps: Set of 4
Set of 4 mini bar clamps with one-handed quick clamp and release. 6″ total length each, non-marring rubber grips, perfect for modeling projects.
Measures 0-6 inches in millimeters, decimal inches, or fraction inches. Stainless steel construction and easy to read LCD screen.
No modeling workbench should be without a Chopper. Make repeated cuts quickly and with incredible accuracy. Aluminum handle and base, guides for 30, 45, 60, and 90 degrees.
27 Piece Push Drill, Pin Vise, and Drill Bit Set
Fine drilling requires a pin vise, and this push drill makes fast work of drilling. Comes with 25 bits ranging between 0.5 mm and 3 mm. I’ve had my push drill for years and love it.
10 Piece Precision Screwdriver Set
Contains 3 sizes each Phillips and Torx drivers and 4 sizes Flat drivers. Rust and corrosion resistant metal, magnetized tips, non slip handles, swivel end caps, and size printed on the end. Convenient carrying case included.
18×24 inch hobby cutting mat. Larger sizes also available. Reversible–green one side, black the other. Convenient grid and angle cutting guide.
Solder Tip Cleaner with Holder
Brass sponge and holder removes debris and corrosion from solder tips without causing wear or damage. No water required, will not reduce tip temperature. Replacement sponges sold separately.
Digital Angle Finder/Protractor
7″/200 mm angle measuring tool, measures internal or external angles. Locks at any angle and also shows reverse angle. Accurate to +-0.3 degrees. Tough ABS plastic or stainless steel versions available.
Kischers 2-stage respirator has filters for particulates and vapors/fumes. Blocks 97% of all organic gases, fumes, pollen, dust, and particulates. Soft, cool, comfortable, yet durable and safe. Perfect for spray paint, air brushing, vapors from glues, sawdust, and much more. Goggles are anti-fog and fit over glasses.
My personal choice for track treatment. With a microscopically thin layer applied to your track, NO-OX prevents oxidation, reduces micro-arching, and enhances electrical conductivity. Say goodbye to constant track cleaning.
Mineral Spirits for Track Cleaning
Odorless mineral spirits is my choice for track cleaning. It is a non-polar solvent which does not promote micro-arching which damages track. Low odor. Read and follow instructions for safe handling and use. 1 quart.
In my opinion the BEST static grass applicator on the market. Powered by either outlet power or battery (use the wall power for best results). On/off switch, grounding cable and anchor included, 2 “screens” for different lengths of grass. Instruction book included.
The industry standard in modeling compound. Lightweight, durable, sandable. 3 lb bag
8 colors, 1 fluid oz each. Weather locomotives, rolling stock, structures, etc. of plastic, wood, and more. Pigment sticks and stays on most surfaces.
Available for HO and N scale, Tracksetta is precision engineered to keep track at the desired radius while it is installed. Link is to a list of various straight and curved products in both scales.
The Badger 105 is my go-to among my airbrushes. Double action, gravity fed, stainless steel construction, for spraying a wide variety of media including acrylics, enamels, latex, inks and much more. Easy maintenance, instruction manual included.
High power extraction, filter, window-mount exhaust, built-in LED lighting. Folds up for portability, easy set up. Includes turntable.