BAN015 semi light hex head flange bolt 0,6mm

Six tenths of a millimeter as a second step

Modelers usually reach for this diameter the moment they have managed to install the smallest size for the first time and want to repeat the same procedure with greater confidence. A difference of one tenth looks in no way dramatic on paper, but when drilling and when gripping with tweezers it tells at once: the drill holds its shape and you turn the head flat without it jumping away from you.

What the tools have to offer

Drills of this gauge are sold in sets of ten, and that is just as well, because you will sacrifice one or two while learning. Besides a pin vise you will want tweezers that close gently and some form of magnification; reading glasses will do, a binocular magnifier is more comfortable. Spare yourself reaming or countersinking the hole; at this size it is only extra handling.

Who it is not for

Anyone building machinery on which the bolts should be seen as part of the shape and not as a fine texture should go two or three tenths higher. And if you work exclusively with resin, expect the material around the hole to crumble readily; it pays to strengthen the spot beforehand with thin cyanoacrylate glue and let it soak in.

Typical places of use

Fender mounts, cable clips, flanges on the gearbox casing, small covers on the frame. In 1:12 scale it corresponds roughly to a seven millimeter fastener on the real machine; in 1:24 it is already a fairly hefty bolt that must not be everywhere.

Before you start

Try out the drilling and the installation as a dry run on an offcut of sprue. You will find out how deep the drill goes and how quickly the glue sets, and you will then make the first real hole with a steady hand.