Zimmerit-Edge Balkenkreuz
Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner
Summary
Stock Number and Description |
Archer Transfers Zimmerit-Edge Balkenkreuz
AR35212 |
Scale: |
1/35 |
Media and Contents: |
Rub down decals |
Price: |
USD$9.95 available online from
Archer Fine Transfers |
Review Type: |
First Look |
Advantages: |
Excellent printing, good colour density,
variety of sizes. |
Disadvantages: |
|
Recommendation: |
Recommended |
FirstLook
One
of the problems of applying decals on zimmerit is that the design
can be too “neat”. Due to the irregularity of the surface to which
they are applied, numbers, insignia etc often show a rough outline
which is confirmed in contemporary photos. Obviously this effect
will be much reduced in 1/35th scale but in many cases it will be
noticeable.
Archer has released a sheet of
Balkenkreuz to cater for such an occurrence. These crosses are
printed with the idea of leaving both the white and black outlines
slightly uneven. The effect is quite subtle but convincing.
Applying the crosses onto a zimmerit surface will be a challenge in
itself. The application must be done very carefully so as not to
damage the product. I have found that once the transfer has been
coaxed off the backing paper, a soft brush can help to push it into
place. Using this “rub-on” method, there will be no risk of
“silvering”.
As with all their transfers, they can be applied both “dry” (as
above) or as water-slide examples. The later merely involves
burnishing the item onto some clear decal film and floating the
object onto the model’s surface. This will be the safer way to apply
the product but does run the risk of trapping air bubbles, leading
to the aforementioned silvering problem.
Handling can often damage the images so a clear coat is recommended.
There will be no adverse reaction from any of the known coverings as
long as they are applied in thin coats.
Conclusion
This is a novel idea and Archer is
to be commended for making it available.
The outline of the cross is more in keeping with many of the
examples seen in photos, and it will help personalize your subject.
With the builder able to choose their method of application over
this difficult surface, the success of the finished model is made
easier.
Recommended
Text and Images by Rob
Baumgartner
Page Created 24 March, 2006
Page Last Updated
04 May, 2006
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