The word Photoetch can have the same effect of nails on a chalkboard for some modellers. Its small size and fiddly nature strikes fear into the hearts of some of the bravest modellers. The 4" Hold and Fold Mk III from the Small Shop is designes to help us fumble fingered oafs create clean and sharp folds and bends in our photoetch.

The Tool

The redesigned 4" Hold and Fold Mk III has everything the average modeller will need in a bending tool. It has different depth and width fingers for various applications and PE types. The new improved version comes with deeper depth settings making it a very versatile bending tool. The new spring loaded tightening knob is of a better more ergonomic design and the bending head assembly clamps down very tightly all along its full 4" length. I had no problems bending long pieces and the head maintained equal pressure along the full lengths of the PE. Gone are the days of having to completely unscrew the adjusting knob and removing the tool head to change the folding edge. YOu simply have to loosen the knob half way untill the tool head lifts off the alignment pins and spin it around to the side you need. No longer having to worry about the spring flying off into the carpet monster.

MK 3s Features

Features

The main tool head has three levels (1/16, 1/8, 1/4) to allow channel folding.

Two sides are beveled for sharp folds to 135°

Cut-Outs reach into parts for complex folds.

Tool head secures parts up to 4"long.

Spring-loaded tool head can be rotated to put either face along the outside edge.

Tool head and base are machined from aircraft grade aluminum.

Instructions and folding razor included.

Overall

Overall I am very happy and pleased with the new tool and its design. The Producers of the MkIII have really listened to the modellers and provided a good tool at a reasonable price. I found it easy to use and very effective in creating even sharp bends and folds. Never has making a PE box been easier. I can completely recommend this tool for the begginer and the advanced modeller alike. This tool will pay for itself in saving you time and aggrevation. I don't know how I ever got along without on in the past.

Thanks to the Small Shop for providing this Review Sample