This is a new tool that was added to UMM-USA’s line of modeling tools this fall. The tool consists of a thin double-edged saw blade and black plastic handle. It is intended to be used with resin parts and thin styrene.

The tool is used similar to a full-sized keyhole saw. While it can be used like a standard saw, cutting from the edge in, its principal use is to cut a hole inside a part. I experimented by drawing out a rectangular panel on scrap styrene, drilling pilot holes at each corner and then using the saw to cut from hole to hole, creating a rectangular opening. The corners were then cut out using a sharp Xacto knife.

The saw blade has fine sharp teeth on both sides of the blade and cuts extremely well, however, you need to take your time and work carefully as the blade is very thin and is easily bent. I bent the blade part way through my experiment. I was able to straighten it with a pair of flat faced pliers the first time, but the second time the blade snapped. By pushing the key that the blade sits on further into the tool, I was able to extend the blade enough to resume cutting and completed my experiment. In hindsight, I think the styrene I was cutting was a little too thick for this blade and I should have slowed down a bit. Fortunately, UMM-USA also sells replacement blades!

This is a great tool and with a little practice will be an essential one for me once I learn to take my time.

Highly recommended.

Thank you to UMM-USA models for the review sample.