I found out that my local tackle shop sells small rolls of . 5mm-thick lead foil. The rolls are about 15cm long and 5cm wide — and dirt cheap! Anglers use the foil as weight for homemade bobbers. I use it for scratchbuilding all kinds of small items for my military models: handles, rifle belts, hinges on ammo boxes, you name it. The foil is easy to cut and, if you need to, you can thin it by rolling over it with the round handle of a hobby knife. Works like a charm!

Tip submitted by:
Jack StofmeelTilburg, Netherlands