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stepSander Sanding Tools

By Matt Bittner

I think I've mentioned in the past how some tools are necessary for model work. Well, I've found a new set of tools that I think will help with all aspects of modeling that requires sanding of some sort. So, that means just about all aspects.

In the Masters Set-A you receive everything that stepSanders provides - one Large Offset Sander with two replacement sanding belts; a set of three Offset Sanding Tools, one each of 220, 400 and 800 grits; and a set of three Bow Sander Tool, again, 320, 400 and 800 grits. Each tool has its own purpose.

With the Large Offset Sander (LOS), you can use it for large seams. Whereas when you use a sanding stick or file, there's always the possibility of sanding the surrounding area when you don't want to. Especially when it comes to the larger airplane models and their long fuselage seams, using the LOS you only sand the seam and its immediate area, not sanding parts of the fuselage you really don't want to.

The Offset Sanding Tool (OST) is a miniature version of the LOS. It will help you sand smaller seams, as well as areas which sanding too much will ruin any surrounding detail. However, its best feature is the "step", or would could be considered a "hammer head". Having that area the sits below the regular sanding surfaces will definitely help when trying to reach recessed areas.

The last tool, the Bow Sander Tool (BST) is a different tool entirely. While it still has the large surfaces for "planing" (as well as one end being curved) the BST has the place close to one edge of the tool that "flexes". This will be great when removing small amounts from rounded surfaces without squaring that surface.

Each tool is a must. The LOS will be great for long, larger seams; the OST is great for handling the smaller stuff; and the BST is good for removing mold-lines from rounded parts without worrying about making them square.

Another "tool" (this time sets of tools ) necessary for the modeling bench.

Many thanks to UMM-USA for supplying the set to review.