Battle Of The Toys 2016

One of the perks of being a modeler is being able to visit exhibitions, competitions and numerous events related to Gunpal and toys. And this is one of them. As Hobby Art gang was invited to showcase their range of E7 Model Paint at the event, I asked to tag along for the show. 

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Hobbymate Shop!

Well, it took quite awhile. But Hobbymate finally has its own shop here! 

Some info about HM.  HOBBYMATE  is not just a Manufacturer but a distributor/ wholesaler as well. In business since 2003, they have been supplying modeling tools, from basic stuffs like cutters to a full range of airbrushes, accessories, spray booth, decals, modification parts etc. The boss, Edmund, helped me a lot when it comes to tools and supplies. And the best thing about him is that he is always on the lookout for  new products/ tools and introducing them to us modelers. ''

Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, it's located in the town of Ang Mo Kio. Nearest MRT is about 2km away, Buangkok and Hougang MRT stations. There are bus services in the vicinity of the building but I have yet to check. 

I made my way down to the shop this afternoon. The building is huge! With all the long corridors and intersections and rows of shops, it's like a really elaborate labyrinth! LOL...   Stacks of merchandise greeted me when I entered (pretty much like my place!). Spacious and bright, they even have balcony area big enough for a workshop! I like it immediately... 

Address: NorthStar 7030 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 5, #09-69, S569880

Telephone: 65-98561071

Skype: HMShop 

Email: hobbymate71@gmail.com

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Hobbymate ACE (Airbrush)

Like most modelers, I have more than one airbrush ("AB"). I got two so that I can switch between both to speed up the painting process. And I do have another one designated for applying top coats. My first entry level "AB" was from Sparmax. 

Naturally I outgrew that "AB" after a few years and bought myself two more "ABs", an intermediate level "AB" and also a high-end model which cost me almost 400 bucks. I reserve this one for competitions and commissions though. 

And recently I started searching for another intermediate level "AB" since the spare parts for the old one are not available readily. As Hobbymate was planning to launch their new "AB", Mr Edmund passed me a set for testing and review. 

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A knife made of ceramic?

I have never heard of ceramic knives until recently. How strong is ceramic? Why is it even crafted into a knife? According to the Mohs hardness scale, a properly made ceramic knife will be rate about 8 with diamond as the hardest scoring a ten. Stainless steel gives you a rate of about 5. Now, that's something.  

Being one of the hardest material on earth does have its advantages. For one the ceramic knife is so hard it can literally slice and slice and slice for years without the need to resharpen. And they don'trust, pit or corrode which suits me just fine since I don't really upkeep my tools. However, I am aware that ceramic may be HARD but they are fragile as well. One drop and the blade will chip. Hence, it is better to keep them in proper places after use. 

You can't cut or chop with these knives but they are ideal for chamferring and deburring for plastic kits. 

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Cutting plastic?

Ever since I started doing Gundams, I have been using Taimya side cutters. They are probably the best available in the market but you have to pay a premium for it. Hence when I was asked to test this pair from Hobbymate, I was quite skeptic about its performance. 

Imagine my surprise when I tried cutting a part of plastic. It slices through with minimum effort. In fact, I need more effort with the Tamiya cutters. The handles gives you a better grip. And after two months, there is no signs of oxidation or tarnish. So far after 5-8 MGs, it still remains sharp, I will continue to monitor though.   

At 28 bucks, I think it is a good buy and for those who do not wish to pay more than 40 bucks or more for the Tamiya cutter, your solution is right here.

 Hobbymate Side Cutters

 Tamiya Side Cutters 

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MG Unicorn Galting Gun

Got this from HAG just today. These guns are so hot that I never get to see them. And when I drop by the store today, imagine my shock when they told me they have stock! Needless to say, I grab a few boxes myself. These are awfully useful parts.

Construction is relatively simple. I only saw seamlines at the drums so nothing to fret about. At 18 bucks, it is well worth the 18 bucks price tag since I can get it ANYWHERE! See product here- http://www.hmshop.biz/eshop/index.php?route=product/product&product_id=264

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Hobbymate Micro 2S Pro

For some of you who might be interested to know the array of tools I used for modeling, I think it is about time I do some periodic reviews of tools and options parts for everyone's benefit.

I picked up this tool called Micro 2S Pro from Hobbymate. Upon opening the package, I see this palm size gadget which resembles a motorized toothbrush. The end of the tool is an attachment called the polisher. The sandpaper can be replaced easily. It only requires two AAA batteries to operate. 

It has two variable speed for most needs. I tried using it on a few parts and it work well enough. The attachment is flexible so when you apply pressure, there is no risk of over-sanding your part. IMO, it works best on smaller parts like those Zaku pipes which is a pin on the neck for me. However, it is also possible to use it for polishing and smoothing of surfaces

The various attachments available - interchangable. I have make a video on how this thing works (my apologies for the crappy demo).





All in all, I would say this is a nifty tool to have around. And it is very very affordable too. Will be available in mid March. The first 100 pieces to go at S$29.90 each!  

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