I have known John Vojtech since the 1990s when he was building models with incredible detail and was starting to sell his razor saws. While I still use my original saw frequently, he has in the decades since branched out to provide a myriad of tools for the modeler as well as some model kits under the UMM-USA name (also known as Unique Master Models). One of the items he provided at the recent IPMS-USA Nationals was this stand created for 1/32 to 1/24 scale aircraft. Modelers who build on larger scales should find multiple uses for this stand.

Tamiya’s new 1/35^th scale Fukuiraptor kit depicts a Cretaceous-era dinosaur that was found near Fukui Japan. It seems that this kit is intended to be an easy model for young or inexperienced builders. There are only a dozen parts, and at a price of $9.25 can be had for pocket money. With this kit, Tamiya introduces what they call “Clic Loc” design. The parts of this kit press-fit together so that no glue is required.

Included in the kit box are two trees of plastic parts and a small brochure. One tree of parts contains all the parts for the dinosaur. The second tree has the base and a silhouette of two people to serve as a scale reference. The brochure is printed in Japanese, English, German, and French. One side of the brochure has information about the history and ecology of Fukuiraptor, the other side has instructions for constructing the model.

Unique Master Models, or UMM, is well known to many modelers for the model work of the owner, and for the many unique tools offered over the years. One of the newer products is the Profiler – Scribing and Contour Guide. Available in small, medium, and large sizes, this tool is a great addition for modelers who scratch-build, as well as for those needing to scribe around curved surfaces.

This tool measures 130mm by 3mm, it consists of a soft metal strip that is smooth on one side and textured on the other and is coated with a rubber-like substance. The coating prevents the tool from slipping during use, and the metal will hold its shape, but can be straightened to allow for repeated use. Small 110mm by 2mm and large 150mm by 4mm Profilers are also available, depending on the needs of the modeler. The Profiler is ideal for both interior and exterior contour checks as well as being able to test the fit of parts.

I believe the Battle of the Coral Sea is vastly underrated and overlooked in its importance, often overshadowed by the imminently more covered Battle of Midway less than a month later. The Battle of the Coral Sea could arguably be more important than Midway, and author Dr Tom Lewis does a fantastic job of not only describing the Battle of the Coral Sea very well, but he also places it where it belongs in history.

Having never read one of Dr Tom Lewis’ over two dozen books before, I wasn’t sure of his writing style. Having been familiar with the Pacific Profiles series, I am happy to report that this book fits in beautifully. Dr Tom Lewis’ background includes serving over twenty years in the Royal Australian Navy, post-graduate degrees in Cold War Politics and Strategic Studies and being awarded the Order of Australia Medal for services to naval history. His research is evident, military service rings true and tells the story well.

From the book’s back cover:

I saw these modeling stands mentioned in one of the chapter newsletters Mark Young compiles and sends to all members (sorry, can’t recall which one). I decided to purchase the sets mentioned above at https://www.wardogmodeling.com/. War Dog also makes a Model Ship Stand and a Model Car Stand. My stands arrived unassembled in a plain white cardboard box, so I don’t have any box art to show you. The box contains the parts in separate plastic bags, a copy of the order information, and that’s it. No instructions, but they aren’t really needed. Assembly is straightforward.