"Replacement hot wire?" Topic

I have one of the GW hot wire cutters but have run out of wire. I suspect otr is "nichrome" I am looking for but have no idea what gauge. Can someone please steer me in the right direction?

For the record I know it is a lousy tool and will be buying a mains powered version soon :-)

I believe you are correct.

Sorry, no idea on the gauge.

Take it to a railroad hobby store. They should be able to provide a replacement, and/or at least identify the gauge of wire for you.

Loads of ebay mate.

You should be able to find it at Michael's or AC Moore. Woodland Scenics sells it.
Check your local hobby/train store.

Indeed, many on ebay but I have no idea which gauge!

Don't know if it is the same gauge, but Woodland Scenics makes the wire replacement items found in my closest local hobby shop. You should be able to use the internet and a remnant piece of what you have to figure out the gauge – or get close. I doubt it is too critical, as long as you are close. But I don't the GW item – they just plain rip off customers with their pricing as far as I'm concerned. A tiny bag of flock for $4 USD USD or whatever it is now? Really? For the price of three bags you can get enough from many other suppliers to flock several armies.

Thanks EMW, I have lost the original wire. GW is a rip off and I don't shop there. I think this was a gift from someone at the old workplace – I swapped some naff "space tank" I was gifted for it ;-)

I am considering buying a proper mains powered unit but I needed the cutter this weekend to fabricate a piece of terrain…

I made my own hot wire cutter and I just use the wire that people use to string beads on. I get a spool at the local craft store for a dollar that lasts me for years.

Might be good to check the power ratings on your cutter so you can get the same gauge wire.

Thinner may burn out; thicker may not get hot enough.

Thanks all.