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Hello guys,

As the title implies I have never worked with magnets before and I would like some feedback from seasoned hobbyists.

I am planning to magnetize arms for GEQ sized models mainly and some LR main guns, side and front sponsor armaments as well the actual side sponsors.

What is the best place to buy the magnets from and what sizes would I need?

Any tips and tricks from buying to assembling would be most welcome.

So to start if you are just magnetizing vehicle parts, IIRC 10mm-15mm and 2-5mm thick neodymium magnets with a N number higher than IIRC 42 should be way more than enough.

Use square or rectangle magnets if you dont like things pivoting.

Some tips.

Get a drill b it the same size as the magnet you are going to use.
Always make sure the polarity of your magnets. id magnetize one weapon and always use that polarity for everything you do.

Don't try and magnetize just onto a flat surface ether drill it in or build around it with Greenstuff or plasticard.

Some parts dont always need two magnets. Flat Nail heads can be used if you want to cheap out on magnets.

For GEQ sized arms, you'll probably want 1mm magnets with a strength of N35. You will also want to get a 1mm drill bit.

Cheapest place to buy them is Ebay, in all honesty.

The best trick I have for installing magnets is to drill the hole in the joint, test fit the magnet and make sure the surface is flush, apply a dab of superglue and then use a whole stack of magnets to place the magnet in the hole. Let the glue set for a couple of minutes and then drill the matching hole in the other joint. Place a dab of superglue in the new hole. Use the arm and the stack of magnets to place the magnet in the second joint. Let the glue set and then pull off the excess magnets. Doing it this way will make sure your magnet polarities are correct.

I buy mine from http://www.first4magnets.com/craft-model-making-magnets-t158