Nice things often come in simple packages. The Squadron Tool Decal Positioner is an example of this, measuring in at 10 cm (slightly less than 4 inches). A small contoured rod with a rubbery tip used to position decals is the simple solution to this old modeler’s “fat finger” problem.

I came back into the hobby after a long hiatus. I was used to thick decals that I could slide around with my fingers. I quickly learned that the current aftermarket decals were much thinner, and folded in on themselves or tore very easily. To solve this dilemma, I then started using a pencil, toothpicks, and other items to try and slide the decals into position. Sometimes it worked, other times it did not.

For that reason, I jumped at the chance to review the Squadron Tool Decal Positioner.

Following the lead of the German Navy in WWI, several countries, including Britain, France, the United States, Italy and the Soviet Union all pursued development of aircraft capable of submarine transport, as well as the submarines capable of carrying them. But no country more so than Japan carried the development of these aircraft and naval vessels to the logical conclusion. During the 1920s, Japan purchased aircraft technology from Germany and submarines from France and Great Britain, and using them as a starting point, developed the most successful submarine launched aircraft and aircraft carrying submarines of any navy before and during WWII.

This handheld tool is designed to get into tight spaces like wing roots, intakes, or other tight or hard to reach spaces. It has four resin-like tips which are to be superglued to the tip of the tool, and sandpaper is to be attached to the tip with double-sided tape. I have to admit that at first this seemed like a pain to set up, but it is really very quick and easy. I tested the tip change out by removing the attached tip and prying it off with a hobby knife, and it came off cleanly and in one piece. I then glued on another tip, the one with the triangular point. I attached a small piece of sandpaper with double-sided tape, and then trimmed the sandpaper to match the tip with my hobby knife, and the sander was ready to use. As advertised, it works well in awkward spots like wing roots, as shown in the accompanying photos. I also find it useful in cleaning up areas to be glued where paint needs to be carefully removed.