In a FSM article a few issues ago (Panther build), the builder used lead foil/sheet to create new fenders & cargo boxes and make them appear battle damaged. My questions are:
What thickness of lead is commonly used? What tool(s) are used to cut the lead? Places to purchase lead sheet in the desired thickness (I know that Great Models carries three different thickness, starting at .008 & up).
Thanks for the help.
I used to work at a recycle center. Lead foil from dental x-rays (about the size of a matchbook cover) were easy to come by. Copper sheet (like from the craft store) would come through, and all kinds of thin copper wire. I use a metal straight edge and a single edge razor blade to cut it. Usually on a peice of glass. Give your recycle (metals) center a try. Ya never know what they got untill you go there as stuff comes in and gets shipped out all the time. Theres usually something that modelers can use. Cheap too.
g.l.
I get my lead foil from the top of a wine bottle.
Jesse
Thanks for the tips. Will try my dentist-figure I’ve contributed plenty to his business that he can spare a little lead…[:D]
As far as wine, I’m more of a beer drinker and the wine of choice for my wife doesn’t have a lead foil wrap…maybe it’s time to move upscale!
Thanks again.
[:)]Hi,bobbaily; as a beer drinker you have a good supply of metal foil. “Cut the can”, its quite maleable…Kenny
Kenny-hadn’t considered that…normally my brew comes in a bottle, but I guess I can make an exception for my modeling…[;)]
Visited my LHS today and found some brass shim stock, packaged in various thicknesses, in the model railroad section. Going to give that a try. If it works, I can probably inquire and order more.
Thanks
Brass is also available in rolls of very thin, soft material that would work well for your uses. Even the thin brass sheets are a bit on the hard side, but the rolls are very soft and can be formed like foil.
David