1:24 Flexible Ammo Belt WWI (300mm Long)

Flexible ammunition belt for First World War machine guns, 1:24 scale

An accessory for large models, not a kit. The flexible belt 300 mm long is divided into pieces as needed and replaces the simplified or entirely missing depiction of ammunition on weapons of the First World War period. In the large 1:24 scale the ammunition belt is one of the details that are visible on the finished model from the front row.

What it is for

The aircraft and positions of the First World War carried machine guns completely exposed, without covers or cowlings. The ammunition belt ran from a box or container straight to the weapon and in use it hung and sagged freely. A rigid plastic part never captures that movement, whereas a flexible belt can be made to sag and even to twist. It will find use on large biplane models, at trench positions and with weapons displayed on their own.

Usage tips

Lay out the run of the belt dry first, because once you have cut it you cannot add length back. Make the cut precisely between the rounds with a sharp scalpel. Before painting, wash and degrease the part and apply a thin primer. Paint the fabric part of the belt in a muted shade of undyed cloth and the rounds in brass; flow a dark wash into the recesses, which separates the two parts visually. In a large scale it is worth suggesting wear and dust on the underside of the belt as well. Handle the final attachment with a drop of super glue and leave the rest hanging freely.

Who the accessory is for

• builders of large First World War aircraft models in 1:24 scale
• modelers of trench positions and separately displayed weapons
• anyone interested in a faithful addition to the armament beyond the contents of the kit
• builders of display models and detailed dioramas

The package contains the ammunition belt only. The weapon, the model, paints and glue are not included. The part is small and does not belong in the hands of small children.