Mike shares his easy economical method for making grab handles.

This feature is one of the gems that can hit all modeling genres. I hope a lot of members who are new to detailing their kits see this, as it is an easy way to spruce up any kit.
It revolves around a Tank, but I know Sci-Fi, Ships, some autos, even a figure vignette can all benefit from this technique.


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If you have comments or questions please post them here.

Thanks!

Nice SBS. You make it look easy
Thanks
Rudi

Nice little write up Mike
Thanks for taking to time to share your techniques.

Nice write-up. My question is, what type of wire do you use? Copper? Solder? Steel?

Jim

From my experience: I've used steel and copper wire. Both are effective.

Thanks Scott for putting this up; I hope it'll help some modeler's out there.

As far as the "types" of wire go, I use brass and copper mostly (and I've used .030 non-fluxed welding wire [steel?]). Right now I have wire in about five different diameters/thickness...one of which will get me real close to the size I need to do turret or hull lifting hooks, the "normal" grab handles, and smaller accessory handles.



I think a key aspect to doing your own grab handles is having a variety of different wire sizes. As far as what the wire is made of is up to you; what's readily available?

Mike

ha ha ha, now I have 70 reasons WHY NOT to get the grabhandler. Thanks for the cost effective method, our wallets only know how much we fund our hobby as it is.

Thanks guys, this is good to know info.. I going to try it.

This is a great article to have thanks Mike.

It is always a bear to make 15 grab handles all the same ,or on the T/34 the little ones on the lower hull.

Great article Mike, nice to see some good old fashioned hand made modeling!
Check out the Griffon Model Workable Hinges & Handles Folding Tool - http://www.luckymodel.com/scale.aspx?item_no=GRM-GT001 . I got one this week and its a work of genius! I crank out consistant and perfect handles and hinges with it and it's rediculously easy. The best thing - for $3.29, with free shipping to boot, it does everything the $70 Grabhandler does!!!!!!!! I swear!!!!!