Help me decide!!!!!

If I were you, mate, read all of the reviews on the KitMaker network about these tools, talk to some modelers who have used all the available folding tools, and then decide for yourself. . .there's positives and negatives about each and every one, no tool is perfect (or there would be no competion! ), so it all depends on your wants and needs in a specific tool.
Happy Hunting!
~Gunny

I agree - read the reviews and wait for replys here.

Don't forget the fenderbender as an option.

I have an etch mate. It's very good. However, the screw nob can be very tight to unfasten when you've screwed it down a lot to grip a piece firmly. Also, possibly because there's only one screw, sometimes the grip can be a bit loose, especially if there's only a thin strip of etch for it to grip.

I haven't used a hold & fold, so unfortunately can't make a comparison for you.

Review on the Etch-Mate, Hold n Folds, and Fenderbender can be found at PMMS here http://www.perthmilitarymodelling.com/reviews/misc/tools.htm

Hi i have a 4 inch hold n fold which i brought in a kit with roller set and cut off set, I find the H & f to be an excellent tool and would highly recomend it, cheers Bob.

Hi....just sneaked in here....I think that I'll go for the Hold & Fold myself to add to my new tools....

I have the big hold and fold(cant remember, the big one) it is very good...just like the etch, if you crank down the knobs too tight, it can take a bit to get them undone.....I was building a 1:8 scale car, and I needed the long straight edge....I think its more versatile to have more holding ability, than not enough!

Don't forget the Fender Bender

I have the this as well. My reason for buying this was I got it second-hand and it was cheap. To be honest, its one of the best purchases Ive bought. Makes PE fun ... compared to all the frustration I had without it. I cannot say whether its better or worse than the etchmate ... I have no comparison model ... but Im not bothered as it does all I need it to.

I did a review of the 5 Speed Hold & Fold and bought it after weighing up the various types and made my decision based on the following points.

The Hold & Fold has two clamping screws
It has a larger number of edges and fingers etc, which fit so many different PE items.
The 5 Speed is well balanced when held in the palm of the hand and its size means that it can be held comfortably.
They are supplied with a fret of PE to practice with and understand the principle of approaching the various objects to be folded.
The quality is fantastic from my usage.
Alasdair at the Small Shop EU is available by phone to offer advice if you get stuck. Well there are times that he is at shows obviously.

I am sure that all types have their pros and cons, but I am a confirmed fan of the Hold & Fold.

Hope this is helpful,

John

G'day all,
For the Aussie market there will be a home grown bender avalible in the next few weeks. I will post more details soon.
Cheers Jason

The World is home

Aussi supply link for Hold & Folds

http://www.irmodels.com/holdfold.html

Bought a 5 speed hold and fold but I didn't get a practice fret of PE with it!!

Hi Mate,

Congrats on buying the Hold & Fold.
As for the practice fret, I was going on what Alasdair said was going to happen, plus he actually gave me a demo one when I chatted with him at the MAFVA Finals at Duxford, last June. I would drop him an email and ask if they have got the scheme off the ground yet.

That aside; I am sure you will find it an excellent piece of equipment.

John