Reddit reviews TAM74104 Tamiya Tools - Basic File Set - Smooth Double-Cut

If you use something like the TAM74104 Tamiya Tools - Basic File Set - Smooth Double-Cut, it will cut down the time it takes to sand down a nub. Here's a link if you want to try them: https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B00CE3L96K/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1 to

For despite there price of 8.15 with (prime free shipping) there great files, I just love my set. These can also be used on metals.

I've started using a metal file set made by Tamiya . They are great for removing sprue left overs on parts and you don't use up all your sand paper or sticks in the process. For other sanding, use sand paper/sticks like the others have suggested.

https://www.amazon.com/TAM74104-Tamiya-Tools-Smooth-Double-Cut/dp/B00CE3L96K/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1474641150&sr=8-2&keywords=tamiya+file

I posted a review in the comments section if you want to read that. The fits are kind of all over the place some stuff fits nice, other stuff is way too loose, a lot of it especially if you paint it requires a lot of sanding and filing to get them to fit so make sure to pick up some of these. They will make it relatively easy to get the fit right. I would say I ended up gluing about 60% of it together though, so look at it like a glue kit that has some parts that snap together. I also did this because there is a lot going on with each unit of it, and it really builds on itself. I did not want anything shaking loose so even stuff that fit well I would glue just to be sure. In spite of all of this, if you are an experienced modeler, I would recommend this kit. It is definitely a challenge, it makes you work for it.

My work flow for the assembly basically became filing down a fitting, making sure it fit, then gluing it

I would say make sure you have a couple of PGs under your belt before this, I'd also recommend having experience with older glue kits, and probably some of the mod kits or resin kits as well. It isn't easy like Bandai but I legitimately did have fun with this kit.

If you end up getting it and have questions about it feel free to contact me.

I use hard Wave sticks too and love them. They sand very flat (something I liked files for) but are quite gentle on the plastic in terms of deap scratches. BUT for some reason the 800 grit is disconnected like in your link. Anyone know where else you can get it?

In terms of files I have the Tamiya basic , Tamiya fine basic , and a (hopefully) nicer plastic hobby file on order just to try. Files are nice for larger jobs like serious molding flaws (not common in Bandai kits) and the fine ones are OK for nubs but still quite rough compared to any sanding stick. Although, as you know I'm sure, files last forever and require much less effort and time to chew through plastic. I'm hoping the plastic file is the Holy grail and is a good balance. I bought a set of needle files and diamond files from harbor freight and they blow. The trash just don't grip or cut don't waste your $3.

And as a reference I own Revell, squadron , nail buff sticks, and have made my own sticks from automotive sand paper. The nail files are way too rough imo, making my own is a pain, and while the squadron sticks are nice I mainly only used the tri-grit while I used all the Revell except the roughest and are probably the best value imo. I still use the other more flexible kinds but dramatically prefer wave. Wish the 800 grit still were available.

Long post sorry. Hope it helps

Edits: spelling, phrasing, and lots of links

https://www.amazon.com/TAM74104-Tamiya-Tools-Smooth-Double-Cut/dp/B00CE3L96K?psc=1&SubscriptionId=AKIAILSHYYTFIVPWUY6Q&tag=duckduckgo-d-20&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=B00CE3L96K

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tamiya files are a good start. you dont need to go all in with some super expensive ones

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as far as sand paper goes i use sanding sticks that are washable so I can wet sand. but paper is fine too

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heres a great tutorial video on sanding

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gF7AluLTDoc

I would also give nod to the matte top coat. It doesn't completely hide the scratches from sanding but it makes it almost invisible unless you try and look for them. Only painting will completely hide them.

As for how I remove nubs I recently started using these to get as close as possible and sand it with a 600 grit sandpaper to make the scratches a bit smoother.

Another method that I use if the file is too large to fit somehow is to use as hobby/xacto knife and get it flush. I hope these help.

Not sure where your are looking to find them 'too expensive'.

Pin Vise

Tamiya Basic File Set

Tamiya Plastic Scriber II

Those are cheap and or par the course for finding them elsewhere. I don't think going with used tools is a good idea when you can get them new for very reasonable prices on amazon.