For panel line scribing...which is better... the back of a dull xacto blade or a scribing tool? I need to re-scribe some lost engraved lines and read both are good tools to use. Any feedback would be appreciated.

I read about someone using a sewing machine needle. So I went and got some 15mm(1/3 in) PVC tubing. I then used the hot-glue gun to fill in around the sewing machine needle and then another one with a straight pin in it. I just made sure that they were centered until the glue ws hardened and now have some simple and cheap scribing tools. They work really good for template work. Just takes a few scores to get a deeper line cut, but its cheap and simple to use.
I hope it helps.

-Dan

Hi there
I agree with Dan
I use a cut down sewing needle held in a Pin vice
for straight lines ie panel lines etc I use Dymo tape as a guide
HTH

Chris

Mission Models sell an outstanding scribing tool with various blades. They aren't cheap, but they work very well. The cutting point curves back toward your hand so the scribing action is a very light pull. They are VERY sharp so a little effort does a lot. The blades come in different sizes and are extremely thin so the panel lines are not overdone. It is possible to easily cut all the way through a panel to remove it or open it for display. The same handle also works with their micro chisel set which is also a very fine tool and a recommended buy.

I bought a Tamiya scribler last Friday and it works like a charm.

J

Found a scriber, from Trumpeter, in TAHS, the other day; at £2.99 it's a bargain, and does a beautifully fine grooved cut.
Edgar