Made in America
A blog series on unique, railroad hobby related products that are proudly Made in America.
Paw of a Bear
Wood Structure Kits in Z, N, & HO; Detail Parts in Multiple Scales
How often have you heard a modeler say “Here - press down on the roof and try to wiggle the building”? Well, I’ll tell you that I took Michael up on his offer and his model did not crush or wiggle! I was impressed and needed to know more! After talking with Michael for quite a while, I learned how these kits employ methods that simplify assembly, assure accuracy, and result in a model that is as strong as it is detailed.
Paw of a Bear offers several highly detailed building kits in Z, N and HO scale, along with something that’s absolutely unique – a kit that makes a standard DPM store kit stand apart from the rest. This wood kit
Exquisite detail in one of Paw of a Bear's craftsman kits.
replaces the lower-front plastic panel of the DPM building with a highly detailed storefront that adds depth and interest to an otherwise common model. It also includes very fine windows to replace the somewhat clunky inserts that are provided with the original DPM kit. A custom cornice changes the appearance as well, turning an easy to build kit into a real showpiece with just a moderate amount of effort and skill. It’s also the ideal segue from basic plastic kits to craftsman style kits.
Paw of a Bear kits are not difficult to assemble. Included in the kit are laser-etched templates and jigs that assure accurate assembly with just basic hobby tools and supplies – hobby knife, emery boards, tweezers, white or wood glue, and CA adhesive, along with acrylic paints for finishing. The instructions are clear, well written, and the one I looked at was printed over 9 pages in a style large enough that I didn’t need to pull out my reading glasses – a nice change! There are many detailed drawings as well to guide you through the installation process. The instructions also offer suggestions for painting and weathering, including when to paint or weather prior to assembly or after completion – very well thought out.
If you’re ready to take the next step up from a plastic model, the Paw of the Bear kits are the way to go!
Contact Info:
Paw of a Bear – Model Structures & Laser Cut Kits
Easlysville, VA
Michael T. H. Duggan
www.pawofabear.com
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