Monthly Archives: September 2012

Guest Review: PropMaster Prop Jig

I’m thrilled to introduce our first guest post here on Doogs’ Models – Rick Kranias’ review of UMM-USA’s wickedly helpful PropMaster jig! Enjoy –Doogs

During the “stocking up my stash” directive last year I purchased MDC’s Hawker Typhoon.  It’s a beautiful resin kit and I look forward to build one of my favorite WWII ground pounders in 1:32.  As I studied the instructions I noticed the props (you get both a 3 and 4 bladed option) need some type of jig to align the angle or pitch of prop blades.

I called MDC and they have no jig available.  I was convinced this would be a challenge but doable.

As I acquired additional after market props for my 190’s and 109’s I realized prop alignment is now a typical building requirement for these resin upgrades.  Further, most of my 1:32 kits require prop blades to be individually inserted/glued into the spinner. Again, I totally felt comfortable with my skill-sets, “yeah, I can do this.”  However, deep down inside a little angst was brewing on making nice aligned props without a jig.  I had actually sketched a design to make my own prop jig using balsa wood sheet and 1/8” wooden dows.

Enter the UMM (Unique Master Models) -USA PropMaster.  While mining the UMM-USA site for lead wire I tripped over this prop alignment life line and it could not appeared at a better time. (more…)

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How To: Get Started (or Restarted) Building Models

If there’s one common trait I’ve noticed among many modelers, it’s that most of us built models as kids, then drifted away to go about the business of growing up and starting a life, a career, a family. Years later, something brings us back. Maybe it’s seeing the latest FineScale Modeler on the magazine rack, the yearning to do something with your hands, or just the old itch returning. Or maybe you’re just picking it up for the first time.

Either way, ramping up in this hobby can be a daunting thing. The internet and the global marketplace have opened up a veritable sea of tools, paints, and options. And don’t even get me started on the wondrous variety of kits, aftermarket accessories, and knowledge to be had. In many ways, the hobby is truly in a golden age right now, but if you’re just dipping your toe (back) into the water, it can all be a little bit overwhelming.

With this how-to, it’s my aim to cut through to the heart of the matter – what do you need to accumulate to give it a go? (more…)

Continue ReadingHow To: Get Started (or Restarted) Building Models