Let me start out by saying that I am a photo etch (PE) addict. Yes, that’s right - if there’s a model I’m preparing to build and there’s any type of PE available for it, I will buy it and I will use it. I just can’t seem to help it. OK, I feel better getting that off of my chest. I just love PE detail parts and what they do for the scale appearance of my models. However, I have always struggled with removal of the parts from the frets, not only in making a clean cut, but in not damaging or bending the PE part being removed. I’ve tried about every PE part removal technique known to model-building man (or woman) and have never been totally happy with any of them. So when given the opportunity to review this new PE scissor from Xuron, I jumped at the chance.

Xuron manufactures a large variety of cutters, pliers and scissors and this is the latest in this line of products. The PE scissors are about six inches in length and feature a smooth, sure-grip ergonomic handle (in blue) that fits comfortably in your hand. The long, ultra-sharp tip easily nips off delicate, tightly spaced parts on a PE fret while the precision ground scissor blades make for smooth, easy and clean cuts without pinching or twisting.

I tried out the Xuron PE scissors on the Eduard PE being used on my latest build, Tamiya’s 1:48 F4D-1 Skyray. Part #36 was a particularly dicey removal featuring four removal points in the circular center area! Using the scissors, the central waste area (itself holding two more parts) was snipped off leaving tiny pips on part 36. The pips were then carefully snipped off using the scissors. The results: a nice clean cut requiring only the smallest amount of filing to render a smooth area. I also managed to not mutilate the surrounding areas! On other, flat or straight removal areas, the scissors worked flawlessly and as advertised. So much for my wife’s old tiny cuticle scissors!

I have to say that these Xuron PE scissors have solved a continuous problem for me when working with PE: parts removal from the fret. And the more I use them, the better I am getting at it.

Recommended!

Many thanks to Abby Robey at Xuron Corporation and IPMS USA for giving me the opportunity to do this review.

Always remember: work safe - be safe. Always wear safety glasses.