UMM-USA is dedicated to fine scale modeling, encompassing model kits, accessories, and specialized tools.Owned by John Vojtech, a fine scale modeling veteran. UMM-USA is an on-line Store, importing and exporting kits, modeling tools and supplies, and seeks and offers solutions on technical issues. In addition, his services currently include design and production of master parts, casting of original masters, photo-etched masks, decals, and building made-to-order models for customers. You can see a sampling of John Vojtech's finished projects in the Our Gallery section of the Web site.

UMM-USA has provided the reviewer corps with a side cutting Sprue/Wire “ROUND” cutter. It is labeled “Round” because the cutting jaw is circular at the tip.

The cutter is made from hardened steel and the “tweezer-like action” allows for precise cutting to remove small parts from sprues with a flush cut which will reduce sanding at the attached point. Also, it has a tapered edge and will allow access in tight places for parts removal.

Reading the description on the website (UMM-USA.com), the cutter can also be used on resin, soft wires and photo-etch.

For my sample, I cut some parts from a current project on my hobby bench. As advertised it cuts well and very close to the edge. A little soft sanding may be needed to remove the remaining sprue attach nub but overall, a close cut at the surface. Its small size makes it a very handy tool to have resting next to your tweezers or sanding sticks and will not take up too much space.

Background of Marston Matting

I realize that I recently completed a companion review of this similar M8A1 landing matting and do not wish to rehash the same ground. However, if you’re interested, I urge you to read that narrative as well, as the background and history of the Marston mat system is one that should be of historical and modeling interest for many of us.

I should also point out that this modern style of Marston matting is not the type with the circular holes, but rather the narrow-slit types of surface design. The original WW II type (with holes) can be found in the ICM line at kit # 49017 (though I have been unable to locate recently).

In recent years ICM has been in the practice of issuing figure kits to accompany their aircraft, armor, and automotive kits. One of ICMs newest releases is a set of five 1/48^th scale figures to accompany their new Ki-21 “Sally” kits. (You can read Allan Murrell’s review of ICM’s “Sally”.) This kit includes three Japanese Army aircrew figures and two ground crew figures. The three aircrew figures are dressed in flight gear. Two are in relaxed standing poses and the third is saluting. One groundcrew figure is at attention and saluting and the other is carrying a ladder.

In 1954, France took the decision to become an independent nuclear power, both to try to regain some lost international prestige following WWII, but also to challenge the French industrial base after the ruin of WWII. They succeeded in testing their first bomb, codename Gerboise Bleue in 1960, becoming the fourth nuclear power after the US, USSR, and the UK.

This catchily-subtitled tome by the noted authority on French nuclear programmes, Philippe Wodka-Gallien, is a 94-page soft-bound book containing 108 colour & 58 b/w photos, 20 colour profiles, and 3 colour & 1 b/w maps; It is the latest in Helion’s Europe@War series that examines conflict in Europe from the early twentieth century up to the present day beyond the scope of the two world wars, often lesser-known subjects that deserve a wider audience than hitherto given.