Any helpful tips on flexing the thigh ammo belt without a heat gun? (WTF ANH Stunt)

[Colberto]

I’m wondering if you guys have any helpful tips for flexing the ammo belt that goes around the thigh for my tk without using a heat gun? The Last time I use a heat gun it didn’t end well when I tried connecting it with the thigh. 

Edited June 14, 2025 by Colberto

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

You need a lot of practice using a heat gun, by the sounds you've already found that out. Some use a hot water bath which allows some movement without turning into a molten mess. Depending on which area sometimes using something that conforms to the armor can help to prevent distortion, I use something inside and outside. 

 

Adding some photos of your issue may help get you some better advice.

 

Thread on adding photos with a free online image host 

[Colberto]

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[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

OUCH

 

I would try to glue some plastic on the back (don't forget to rough surfaces before applying E6000 glue) then fill the cracks with ABS paste, sand and polish.

 

OR contact the maker and ask if you can get a replacement, no guarantee that it will be exactly the same color though.

 

Hot water bath is the safest way to bend armor without breaking.

 

[Tilheyra[IPM]]

Second the hot water bath. It was how I was able to get my thigh ammo belt shaped properly.

[Colberto]

No need! I’ve already got a replacement and had it installed to my left thigh. But thanks for for tips! 👍

 

[Colberto]

I managed to get this installed to my thigh without the need of a heat gun or boiling water. However, I can't help but see that theres a white bruise on the left side of the belt (kinda hard to see). i'm concerned that it might be a sign that the belt might break. I might have to consider doing the "unthinkable", which is using a heat gun at this point due to the piece being glued. If I were to do it, I will need to be very careful because I painted the rivets white with humbrol paint (which is flammable) and might have to use aluminum tin foil to prevent the plastic from burning. Any suggestions? 

Edited August 4, 2025 by Colberto

[Colberto]

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[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

I would be very careful using a heat gun, it takes a lot of practice, you can go from pliable to molten mess in the blink of an eye. I would be inclined to leave it or try to get a replacement if you can't live with it.

 

A bit hard to see but make sure the cover strips stops before the bottom ridge 

 

 

[Colberto]

5 hours ago, gmrhodes13 said:

I would be very careful using a heat gun, it takes a lot of practice, you can go from pliable to molten mess in the blink of an eye. I would be inclined to leave it or try to get a replacement if you can't live with it.

 

A bit hard to see but make sure the cover strips stops before the bottom ridge 

 

 

Well in that case, how should I remove the white bruises? I think it happens when i bend the plastic.

[gmrhodes13[Staff]]

1 hour ago, Colberto said:

Well in that case, how should I remove the white bruises? I think it happens when i bend the plastic.

It's very hard to see. You can practice heating some scraps but in areas already formed it you heat too much you can make more of a mess.

 

This is a great how to for bending belt and can use for the thigh ammo strip.

 

 

[Seth Larney]

I’ve encountered a similar issue; heat guns can bend the plastic too much.  Using a hot water bath (nothing boiling) has worked better for me; immerse the belt for a short while until it becomes somewhat pliable, then gently bend it into position.  To avoid distortion, it's a good idea to place the belt between two surfaces with comparable shapes while it cools.  Reinforcing the area with adhesive (E6000 works well if you rough up the surface beforehand) and a small amount of ABS paste inside can be a lifesaver if there is any cracking or weakness. After it has dried, sand it smooth.  Has anyone tried a comparable technique or discovered a superior do-it-yourself trick?