1:48 U.S. 105 mm empty cartridge case

Empty American 105 mm cartridge cases in 1:48 scale

This is an accessory set for detailing models and dioramas, not a kit on its own. It contains miniatures of empty cartridge cases of American 105 mm artillery ammunition in 1:48 scale. In a scene they are used as they appeared in reality — thrown about around a firing position, lined up by the weapon or loaded for removal.

The real subject

American 105 mm ammunition was used with howitzers in two parts, so after firing a separate brass case without the shell was left. It is exactly these empty cases that are invaluable in a diorama, because they give a scene action: they pile up around an active position, whereas by an untouched weapon they have no place. The set goes with the accessories holding American 105 mm ammunition and the transport containers of the same caliber, with which it can be combined.

Building and painting tips

Paint the cases in a batch: stick them to a board with double-sided tape, spray on the base and only then separate them. Wash the castings in lukewarm soapy water before painting. Glue resin with cyanoacrylate glue and injection-molded plastic with cement for polystyrene. Do not make the brass shade uniform — a brass base, a dark brown wash over it and finally a light polishing with a dry brush and a gold paint or pigment. That looks considerably better than a single gold paint from the bottle. Cases lying in grass or mud should also be dusted at the bottom with a pigment to match the surface.

Who the set is for

• Builders of American artillery in 1:48 scale
• Makers of dioramas with a firing position
• Modelers who add loads to vehicles and trailers
• Collectors putting together the whole group of accessories for the 105 mm caliber

This is an accessory set for modelers, not a toy. Glue, paints and the base model are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.