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B-26K Counter Invader Interior 3D Decal (QD48237 for ICM) 1:48 Quinta Studios When Quinta’s innovative products first came to our attention, they caused quite a stir, as well they should. The replacement Instrument Panels and internal details are mind-boggling to look at, because we’re used to seeing simplified styrene instrument panels, or Photo-Etch Brass panels with either two layers of etch, or laminated parts that can be tricky to glue together, even though they are pre-painted for your ease. But decals? These aren’t your run-of-the-mill decals though, they’re 3D printed in many layers and colours on a flat carrier film, having as much in the way of elevation as is needed to complete a realistic panel printed in the correct colours, complete with shiny dial faces and metallic-effect hardware, and often including cushions and seat belts in the set. Each set arrives in a Ziploc bag with a folded instruction booklet protecting the decals, which are also separately bagged, so they should reach you in good condition. The pictorial instructions are printed on glossy paper, and are shown in full colour as befits the awesomeness of the sets, showing exactly where each part should go on the actual model, so there’s no confusion due to the “pictures speak a thousand words” maxim. Additional hints and instructions are also included, marking out parts needing bases, kit parts that are used or replaced and other useful tips. The technical instructions in the text-based, giving additional tips to the new user about maximising adhesion and preventing lift at the edges by wicking in super glue. Although you are advised to use Super Glue (CA) to attach the decals to the surface permanently, preparation is much the same as your standard decal, but you will need to remove any raised detail that would be underneath the location depicted in the instructions, and some new parts will need small backing panels or bases on which to apply the decal. A slim piece of sheet styrene would perform that task, and painting the edges a matching colour should minimise its appearance or turn it completely invisible. This set is patterned for the recent 1:48 ICM kit, and it’s a beautiful-looking set. It comprises four sheets of decals, first requiring you to remove some sections of moulded-in detail from the fuselage inner sides. Then you add new instrument panel; sidewall details; centre console with extra levers; overhead console; additional instruments on the rear bulkhead; large sheets of diamond-quilted green sound insulation for the sidewalls, bulkheads and even the clear canopy part; plus a full set of seatbelts for the three crew’s convenience and safety, consisting of four-point belts for the flight crew, and lap belts for the rear crew. To assist you with completion of the task, a pair of bright blue template decals are included on one sheet to give you the correct sizes to make your own bases for some of the decals. Conclusion The detail on the decals is incredible, even down to the infinitesimal switches and impressive crispness of the set. This cockpit really needs a crystal-clear canopy to show off the details, maybe leaving the opener on the top ajar to give a better view. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of