I wrote a full post about the tools that I think are essential for 3D metal modeling, as well as a number of other tools I just think it’s really nice to have.
So, on this page I’ll provide links to the exact products that I use, sourced from the suppliers that I think offer you the best deal.
(Note: If you purchase through any of my links, I may receive a commission which helps me do what I do on this site. But rest assured, my recommendations are always based on my honest opinion after personally using products and researching all the options out there.)
The Metal Earth 3-Piece Tool Kit
This is the most popular basic set to get started with. It includes clippers and two pliers (flat and needle nose). If you just add a pair of tweezers, you have all that you actually need to make a whole collection of models. Click here to see the tool kit on the Innovatoys website.
Tweezers
You’re going to need a good pair that don’t flex too much. I have a few, but I keep coming back to one pair in particular that I absolutely love. They’re made by Zizzilli. Click here to see them on Amazon.
Tab Bending Tool
This is a simple but amazing little tool, purpose-made for building metal models. You can pick one up for just a couple of dollars. It’s designed to slip over tabs and twist them, and the beauty of it is that it can get into very tight spaces where using tweezers is almost impossible. (Click here to check it out on Amazon).
Photoetched Parts Bender
You can watch my short demo video showing very simply how this tool works. It is overkill for most things, BUT when you have a larger piece to fold, it is superb. It allows you to make a long fold perfectly and uniformly. If you end up building some of the larger metal models (especially architecture and ships), you will find this tool invaluable. It actually comes in several sizes. I recommend you get the biggest one you can afford, and if you do it will bend small parts as well. Check out 3 options on Amazon …
- Small (Click here)
- Medium (Click here)
- Large (Click here)
Superglue
Accidents WILL happen, and you’re going to need a tube of superglue to repair broken pieces. I’ve changed my recommendation on this. I used to say Zap-a-gap Medium CA+ (which is a very good hobby superglue), but I’ve since become a raving fan of Loctite Ultra Gel Control (Click here), which comes in the most user-friendly bottle I’ve ever found! Simply squeeze the tabs on the sides to dispense the perfect amount of glue every single time. No more mess.
I should also mention that I often use Loctite in conjunction with Zap-a-Gap Zip Kicker (Click here), an activator in a spray can. The Zip Kicker has saved me more than once when I just could not get the glue to grab, even after holding it in place for an extended time. One quick spray, and the superglue hardens instantly.
Mandrels
These are very handy for shaping curves and tube shapes. They are designed to give you multiple size options. The more sizes you have the better. I have 2 sets. This first is a smaller steel set (Click here to see it), and I use this the most by far. But I do also have a larger plastic set (Click here to see it), which definitely comes in handy from time to time.
Magnifying Visor
Okay, it’s a sign that I’m getting old, but I use these all the time. You just have to be able to see properly when you’re working with very small pieces. Some people like the magnifying glass on a stand instead. They do the same thing — it’s just a matter of personal preference. For me, the visor means I can hold parts closer with nothing in the way. (Click here to see one on Amazon.)
Light Source
My wife bought me the Daylight U32500 Triple Bright Lamp for Christmas, and now I don’t know what I did without it. It attaches to any table and provides amazing light right over your work area. You can move it around, and angle it, and push it right out of the way if you need to. It also doubles as a fantastic light source when you’re taking photographs. I highly recommend it. (Click here to check out the exact model I have).
Solar Powered Display Stand
These are very popular with modelers. Great for highlighting you’re latest model, and also for making quick videos to share. No batteries needed — just keep it in good light and it’ll turn constantly. They are distributed by Fascinations Inc, the company behind Metal Earth models. (Click here to get one from Innovatoys).
Finger Cots
These are great for preventing greasy fingerprints when handling models. You can wear just two or three on the fingers you use most, or put them on every finger of both hands if you prefer. They are very inexpensive; a box of 200 are just a few dollars on Amazon (click here). They’re even cheaper if you can wait for shipping from China by ordering through a site like AliExpress.