Quinta Studio OV-10A Bronco Interior 3D Decal (QD48227 for ICM) 1:48

[Mike]

OV-10A Bronco Interior 3D Decal (QD48227 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 fabulous and much anticipated ICM kit, which has a great big clear canopy through which you’ll be able to see all that detail.  The set comprises three sheets of decals, containing instrument panels for the pilot with upper ancillaries plus two styles of panel for the USAF or USN rear seater, and a large instrument pack for the rear shelf.  There are also side console decals 3D relief on the rear consoles, additional black boxes and a document bag for the sidewalls, small levers, and a full set of seatbelts for both the crew’s convenience and safety.  Finally, there is a striped yellow and black pull handle to the side of the headbox, which is also augmented with a relief decal to add detail.

 

Conclusion

The detail on the parts is incredible, even down to the infinitesimal switches, glossy dials and impressive crispness of the set.  This cockpit really needs a crystal-clear or opened canopy to show off the details, and you’ll find one of those in the kit's clear sprue, providing you mask it off as you start.

 

Very highly recommended.

 

 

Review sample courtesy of