1:48 AH-64D 3D-Printed & coloured Interior on decal paper (Hasegawa)

Quinta Studio 1:48 AH-64D - three-dimensional interior decals

This set from the maker Quinta Studio belongs among three-dimensional (3D) interior decals. On the decal backing paper are printed three-dimensionally shaped and already colored cockpit panels - instrument panels, side consoles and controls. Once applied to the plastic parts of the model they replace flat decals as well as the laborious hand painting of tiny dials and lettering. It is not a helicopter model but an accessory to a kit in 1:48 scale.

The real subject

The AH-64D is an attack helicopter with a two-man crew seated in tandem, that is, a pilot and a weapons systems operator. Visually it differs from the older version above all in the housing above the main rotor head, which carries a radar. The cockpit is therefore densely fitted with instruments and displays at both seats, and it is precisely this part of the model that tends to be most visible once the canopy is closed.

Usage tips

Soak the sheet briefly in lukewarm water, the part slides off the backing paper and holds on a gloss varnish, as it has no adhesive layer of its own - do not use a softener or a setting solution, as they attack the printed resin and ruin the part. Prepare the surface under the decal smooth and degreased, fit the cockpit parts before you glue the fuselage halves together and let the set dry thoroughly before closing the canopy. We recommend painting the surrounding surfaces of the cockpit before you start fitting the panels.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who build the helicopter in 1:48 scale and want a faithful cockpit without hand painting dials.
• Builders with an open canopy or with hinged panels, where the interior is visible.
• Those who prefer a quick result to photoetched sets.
• Collectors who combine a plastic kit with accessories from other makers.

This is an accessory, not a model. The kit, glue, paints and tools are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.