ARCHER Transfers (
http://www.archertransfers.com) has released a new set of transfers for the u-boat world: rivets and weld beads for the Revell 1:72 VIIC.
The set replaces any rivets lost in sanding, and adds more authentic weld beads - and new beads not included on the model. The surface detail set is black resin backed by clear decal film, and includes all necessary rivets, standard welds, extra welds, and possible additional welds.
The weld are very realistic, just like a weld bead: raised, bumpy detail and wavy width. The rivets are very small and spaced out in proper patterns. Very handy for replacing lost ones (they do get sanded and knocked about, especially with various "surgeries").
Placement is easy, just like any decal. Cut close, soak in warm water for about 10 seconds, and apply. You can use Future as a base, and even use a decal set or solvent like Microsol. When dry, just paint over, and presto, instant rivets and weld beads.
The scale and quality are excellent, as is the research. Glenn Cauley, builder of two very detailed boats and a member of AMP and Model Shipwrights forums (
http://www.travel-net.com/~gcauley/U625/ and
http://www.travel-net.com/~gcauley/U673/index.htm), researched patterns using many sources, and was able to piece together the complete rivet and weld patterns, including possible variations.
My review set arrived in a very sturdy box, very professional and appropriate. It made a long trip about halfway around the planet, but was in such good shape it could have come from down the street.
The set contains color instructions with easy placement drawings, three sheets of transfers, and general info about Archer and their new website.
For testing I placed a weld bead on half painted, dirty sheet styrene to cheat and make it hard. Even in such an unfair test, adhesion was excellent and it painted fair with just one coat, a second is necessary but easy. The second coat could even be a lighter shade for highlighting the surface detail, just dry brushed on.
I recommend cutting very close tho, as the solvent didn't completely take care of the decal film. Not noticeable on a weld bead, but the space between rivets might need a little attention.
The only slight negative has nothing to do with the product itself, but the price. US$59.95 is expensive, but then so is a Rolls Royce. Very nice to drive though!
IDEA: Brilliant (easy solution for tough problem)
EXECUTION: Excellent (quality and research)
PRESENTATION: Professional (makes it easy)
HIGHLY RECOMMENDEDUS$59.95
Archer Fine Transfers (decals and resin surface sets)
http://www.archertransfers.com
