1:16 Helmet Insignia WWII - part 2

Helmet Insignia WWII - part 2 – decals 1:16

The second part of a decal subline with helmet markings from the period of the Second World War, made for 1:16 scale. It is not a kit but an accessory for figures and busts that you already have built and painted.

A helmet insignia as a period detail

Side insignia on steel helmets were among the distinguishing elements of the equipment in the Second World War, and their use changed over the course of the war. On a model the markings therefore work as a dating clue as well: they help to place the figure in a particular period and tune it to the rest of the scene. In the large scale the insignia is easy to read and becomes a feature detail on which careful work shows. Every mistake is just as visible, though, so it pays to try out beforehand on a scrap of plastic how the film behaves and how strongly the softener acts on it.

Recommended procedure

• Polish the area under the decal with gloss clear, ideally only in that one spot.
• Dip the design in lukewarm water and lift it off the backing with a soft brush.
• On the spherical surface of the helmet, use a decal softener.
• Once it is dry, unify the surface with matte clear and add the weathering.

Who the set is for

It suits builders of large figures and busts in 1:16 scale and modelers who add figures to large dioramas. These are historical markings from the period of the Second World War, meant for a faithful reconstruction of the look of the figure on a model.