What does everyone use to cut parts loose?

[pantherf]

I myself really rely too much on my sprue cutters but will use a scalpel or a straight edge if needed but after having to "clean up" the sprockets on this Japanese tank because of the multiple injection points I was thinkin'...


... is there a better way?  Or do I need a new cutter that's sharper?  Any thoughts? 






Jeff

[Tojo72]

Nothing special at all,sprue cutters and sometimes my #11

[beast]

Use spring loaded craft scissors (fiskars) I then use the blade from my Leatherman Wave for further trimming and sometimes one of my many needle files for smoothing parts down.

[wbill76]

I use my trusty Tamiya Sprue cutters for most removal work. Cleanup with the #11 blade in the hobby knife usually follows. Working on my 1/350 ship project at the moment, I've found that doing clean-up work while using an Optivisor makes a huge difference...may start doing that more often even with 1/35 stuff. Like Dicky, I replace the blade regularly, you can buy a box of 100 blades dirt cheap from various sources.

[Tobi]

I'm using two different side cutters, a cheap Revell for the basic stuff and a Xuron for more precision of the cut when needed. Also some old nail scissors have proven very useful for delicate parts.

For wire I use a 3rd side cutter which is hardened and exclusively reserved for that purpose.

In some cases a mini saw inserted in the scalpel handle comes handy, too. It always depends on the circumstances.

Cheers,
Tobi

[pantherf]

Thanks for the replies guys!  I am going to get a new cutter then for the sprue parts removal and retire my old one for cutting other plastics and other uses.

I may even try sharpening the old cutter just to see if it can be done.





Jeff

[paulh]

Side cutters, occassionally a fresh Swan-morton blade (size/shape dependent on the parts in question) and somewhat less frequently a straight nail clippers -particular good for etch.
P

[Deleted]

After taking a closer look at mine, need to order another from Micro Mark:)

[wbill76]

One other tool you should consider Jeff, sprue cutting tweezers. Often very useful for getting in to tight spaces or working with smaller parts. Check for them on MicroMark or other similar tool providers. I love mine.

[detailfreak]

Working at Digi-key gives me acess to a variety of nippers tweezers cutters of all designs,I am fond of the nipper tweezer wbill mentioned.Makes a very nice cut on smaller parts.

[pantherf]

I do appreciate everyone's feedback on this.  I didn't realize there was so many to choose from BUT, I bought a standard set from Xuron and will compare them with my 6 plus years old cutter... probably it's a Squadron brand as I got it from the LHS.

If I'm not happy I'll look at a few more brands also.  You wouldn't believe how many there are out there.  Definitely will look into some long nosed cutters too as it's always a good idea to be rich in tools. 





Jeff

[wbill76]

Can't ever have too many tools...or kits...or references...or space!

[deafpanzer]

Sorry I am late to the party... somebody gave me wrong directions.

My favorite tool... it even works great on tiny parts too.

[pantherf]

Well, I ordered these on Thursday and they arrived today... SATURDAY!  And from Texas to Indiana!  It was like they were just waiting for me to pay them and it shipped off! 

The Xuron cutters utilize a shearing action, so they don't pinch thus not leaving much to sand off.

I'm glad I asked for there is a difference between these and my old pair.  Thanks guys!






Jeff

[ironhand6]

yep once I found the Xuron cutters I was sold! they are great for part removal

[vlpbruce]

Like the others, I use the Xuron ones. By the way, the same cutters are also marketed by Testors.

[bullardino]

I just got a pair of Xuron track cutters and they are definitely the best I've ever had

[wbill76]

Oct 25, 2013 9:30:22 GMT -5 @dickyf said:

Mili - I just ordered those Tamiya ones as they were on offer, like Boo I usually go for cheaper generic ones and renew them more regularly, be interesting to compare....

I think you're going to find Dicky that the Tamiya cutters last a lot longer. I've had the same pair in use for a couple of years now and they are just as sharp and clean in their cuts as the first day of use.

[pantherf]

How does the self healing cutting mat's perform with a scalpel/exacto blade?




Jeff

[wbill76]

Oct 25, 2013 18:04:27 GMT -5 pantherf said:

How does the self healing cutting mat's perform with a scalpel/exacto blade?

Jeff

It heals, but it might complain more in the process depending.