Lights, Lamps and Magnifiers? What do you use for N scale models and details.

[charlie_cacioppo]

Hi I recently came back to model rring after a 15 year lapse. When i was active both HO and N had a place in my basement. Now i have moved and N scale is the scale of choice given my space currently.

 

When i left model rring in 2001, i had good eyesight and needed minimal magnefication to handle N scale details. Now in my 50s, i need some help! :)

What are common practices and devices for helping an active modeler, structure builder and layout constructor to see and work clearly?

I still have a Panavise 209 jr which probably never went out of style.

Any hints and kinks for what you all use to keep me in n scale for a long time please!

Thanks!
Charlie C

[KenK]

I do HO scale, but I recommend this:

http://www.harborfreight.com/magnifier-head-strap-with-lights-38896.html

Note: the lights are useless, but otherwise it works great for me, I have several.

[tstage]

Charlie,

While I model in HO, I do wear prescription glasses - albeit not very strong ones.  For seeing well I prefer an Optivisor (2.5x), a good stationary light source (i.e. table lamp w/75-100w bulb), and a set of good-quality tweezers (e.g. fine-tip, flat-nose, and locking).  Along with those essentials I also have a set of good-quality mini-screwdrivers (e.g Wiha).

For me - the above tools are what makes the difference between enjoyable modeling and frustrated modeling.

Tom