Dear Guys,

I'm looking for a basic, but descent PE bending tool. I've never had one of those, I have no idea what criterias to look for. Your suggestions are welcome.

TIA,
Israel

Do not go for the small square ones since their size prohibits folding anything longer than 4-5 cms and in armor modelling you will find plenty pe parts longer than that.

Select a tool that allows you to flip sides and use the long straight side as well.

This is my tool, custom made by a friend:



At first I thought I did not need a tool but after having to fold long parts like fenders and beams l changed my mind. It also helps you curve stuff.

EDIT: RP Toolz makes some nice tools and at decent prices.

Have a look on ebay they have plenty from different base sizes or different p.e sizes.

Im stil new with photoetch and learning. I got this on ebay

https://rover.ebay.com/rover/0/0/0?mpre=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ebay.co.uk%2Fulk%2Fitm%2F222791337480

Cheap enough price perfect size for braile scale p.e

I have RP Toolz one-13 cm and I'm satisfied, price is good also

http://rptoolz.unas.hu/en/spd/RP-13/13cm-long-Photo-Etch-Tool

Dito, my RP Toolz PE bender is 18 cm. long.Needed the extra cm. for fenders bending.

That's what comes out when posting on the move
I've edited my initial post to get rid of the "other" meaning...

Sorry, just couldn't miss it...

I use a Mission Models folder for long pieces, but for small parts I use a 6" steel ruler and blade (that's faster than opening; placing; tightening; folding; un-tightening; opening...etc.)

Here are my PE tools. I use the pliers and 2" Bug for 95% of my PE bending needs.

https://www.ebay.com/itm/The-Small-Shop-SMS003-Photo-Etch-Bending-Tool-4-Mk-IV-RTH-Hold-and-Fold-/312024103102

What I have used for plus 18 years.

Cheers


Jeff

I also have a Hold N Fold. The 5.5 size with two knobs. It's pricey, but it is very well-made and will probably be the only device like that I will need to buy.

I had a cheapie plastic one, but the tightening mechanism is not that strong, and pieces wiggled. Not the case with the Hold N Fold. My 2 cents.

Gary

I also use the 2" Hold & Fold bug by KPM. Very versatile and doesn't take up a lot of room in my desk. Not the best tool if you do a lot of long PE items, but not impossible.

The Bug, no question about it.