On The Mark Models Etched Brass Tank Model Parts

Catalogue No.: AR-3530, Weld Beads
AR-3538, Belts and Tie-Downs
AR-3539, Latches and Padlocks
AR- 3555, Modern US Handles
Review Type: In-Bag
Rating: Highly Recommended

Reviewed by Cookie Sewell

S u m m a r y
Contents and Price:
 AR-3530, Brass Etched Weld Beads (36 items) - $6.00
AR-3538, Brass Etched Belts and Tie-Downs (84 items) - $6.00
AR-3539, Brass Etched Latches and Padlocks (94 items plus brass rod and plastic wingnuts) - $7.25
AR- 3555, Brass Etched Modern US Handles (58 items plus plastic nuts) - $6.25
Advantages: Very nice items, beats having to make them yourself!
Disadvantages: Very small parts and small ACC "footprint" frustrate some modelers
Recommendation: For all amor modelers  (and for any US postwar vehicle in the case of the last item).

 

F i r s t   L o o k


Mark Persichetti has become a true master at what he does best – create usable etched brass items for detailing armor and figure models. These new sets, which were debuted at AMPS 98, are among his newest items to continue that tradition.

For those who do not like making weld beads, the first set provides six wide (2") weld beads and 30 narrow (1") ones. They require special preparation, however, as they are stiffened by having a thicker backing than some of Mark's other items. This necessitates having a small channel scribed into the model first so that the beads can be inserted nearly flush with the surface. While this may seem tedious to some modelers, they have the distinct advantage of being flexible and are perfect for running narrow beads around items which are attached to vehicles – stowage bins, appliqué armor plates, mounts, etc.

Next is a set of tie-downs and buckles. This is perfect for use in securing "OVM" – outer vehicle materials -- such as tools and spares to the outside of any vehicle. It also includes the loops which are welded to the vehicles to run the tie-downs through, and two styles (welded and bolted) are included.

A nice touch is provided by the hasp and lock set. This includes a wide variety of hasps and bails, and twelve locks in one of four styles. The locks are formed by laminating brass parts together and then forming the hasp of the lock from brass wire.

Lastly, and one I am particularly happy to see, is a set of modern US armored vehicle lift rings and handles. The set is sufficient to do one or two vehicles, such as two M41 or M42 series vehicles or one vehicle the size of an M55 SP 8" howitzer. It also includes the triangular slip rings for lifting panels, and swingout lift rings.

Overall, these will be welcomed by a wide variety of modelers, and make adding the "fiddly bits" that much easier.

Review by Cookie Sewell, April 1998.
Visit Track-Link for the best of Armour Modelling.
Page Created 28 April, 1998.
Last updated 22 July, 2003.

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