It is difficult to find many modelers that have never used a Flex-I-File product. Most modelers have several of the Flex-I-File aluminum sanding frames on their workbench, and several packets of the abrasive refill tapes ready for use. Then there are the Flex Pads which are available in varied grits. Just in case the reader is one of those “unfortunates”, this review will result in some of your model money being spent.

Before we dive into the review, to be clear, the sanding frame is also sometimes referred to as “the handle” to which the abrasive tape is attached. And the abrasive tape is sometimes labeled “the sanding strip”. A Flex Pad is also known as a sanding stick.

The Flex Set being reviewed includes:

Summary

This is a review of one of the many Alpha products designed specifically for scale modelers.

I have long been a fan of Alpha products in many of their forms. Especially their micro sanding pads which allow me to perform very finely detailed sanding and polishing. With this 5 pack I can use the entire sheet of sanding film or by combining the sheet (or smaller cut pieces) use them in model sanding. I also use smaller pieces cut into strips and held in place with double sided tape and mounted on small popsicle sticks. Alpha Graphics has produced their products for over 75 years and long established their reputation for high quality, long lasting sanding products.

Ammo has released a new line of 20 paint effects colors in 10 ml bottles. I am reviewing four of these colors: #0863 Light Green 0864 Light Olive Drab, 0865 Military Green and 0866 Dark Green. These are the four green tones that they offer, along with blues, greys and earth tones. Here is what Ammo’s website says about this new product:

“The AMMO SHADERS are a new type of product designed to create a variety of effects on all types of models in a simple and fast way. The transparent and ultra-fine paint allows all skill level of modelers to apply stunningly realistic effects that seemed impossible before.

Kit Made For: Suitable for WWII to Vietnam eras

"Resin accessories for the scale modeling enthusiast". That is the tag line from Tiger Werke's website. Tiger Werke is a 'new to me' manufacturer of resin accessories primarily geared toward the armor modeler in all of us. Although I should mention that Tiger Werke has been around since 2014 and has recently been acquired by Phil Cavender

With apologies to Phil (et al), I stole this next bit from their website. Under this new ownership, they have the exclusive right to manufacture and distribute Tiger Werke’s complete line of 1/35th scale resin items. Included in Tiger Werke’s line are paved and cobblestone street sections, building fronts, roadside shrines, fountains, and AFV Wedgies.

Additional items also include the manufacturer of various stowage and accessory sets for Allied, German and British vehicles. With the purchase of Tiger Werke, several items not previously distributed will be made available.

Several of my modeling friends have been using Mission Model Paints and telling really good things about them. When I had the chance to review some of them I jump on that opportunity.

The very first thing you notice is the volume you get in each bottle: 1 fluid oz. That would keep you painting for a while. You might worry about the fact that the paint might go bad before you are out of it, but don’t worry. Based on the chemistry of it, it is shelf stable. I don’t know if after 5 or 10 years it will still be as good as pristine, but it should last you a long, long time.

Another thing to highlight is that each bottle has a “mixing ball” inside. I’m not sure if it is truly a ball, but you can shake that bottle and the little “rattle” will help you mix the paint thoroughly.