Master only entered in the area of armour barrels a short time ago, but they are building up a steady range of products. Two of the latest releases from Master cover two barrels for the 30cal machine gun. The 50cal is well looked after by a wide number of manufacturers, but the 30cal is a bit like a poor cousin and so does not get as much attention. Master has now released 2 sets covering the 30cal; one covering the conical muzzle and the other covering the cylindrical muzzle.
Contents
The products are supplied in a Ziploc plastic bag with a card hanger. Inside this is a small plastic bag containing 2 vented sleeves and 2 barrels of the type purchased. There is a card stiffener to proprotect the barrels and behind which there is also an instruction and information sheet.
Review
Cylindrical Muzzle GM-35-005
Starting with the cylindrical muzzle barrel (Late type); the barrels are very cleanly turned with no tool marks that I could see to mar the finish. To use the barrels could not really be simpler, being just a case of sliding the sleeve onto the barrel from the rear. To apply the barrels to a infantry machine gun or vehicle mounted machine gun is a case of cutting the plastic barrel away, drilling a 0.5mm hole at least 3mm into the body and then using your preferred adhesive to secure the barrel to the body by inserting the rear pin into the hole you have drilled.
Conical Muzzle GM-35-004
The conical muzzle barrel (early type) is also cleanly turned without any tool marks that I could discern. All of the attributes from the other version apply to this product as well. The mating surfaces between the muzzle and the sleeve are good and there is a ridge of metal at the rear of the barrel to prevent the sleeve moving about at the back end
Conclusion
These two new barrel releases from Master are a nice addition to the available choices. The high point of these barrels for me is that the sleeves are already shaped unlike some offerings where the modeller is expected to shape the sleeve themselves. The barrels are ideal for both free standing M1919 machine guns and those mounted in tanks.
SUMMARY
Highs: The pre formed sleeves are the best aspect for me and the photo etch challenged.Lows: There are no obvious lows to this product of which I am aware.Verdict: A couple of very good M1919 barrels from a compny with a good record on the barrel front.
Our Thanks to Master! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
About Darren Baker (CMOT) FROM: ENGLAND - SOUTH WEST, UNITED KINGDOM
I have been building model kits since the early 70’s starting with Airfix kits of mostly aircraft, then progressing to the point I am at now building predominantly armour kits from all countries and time periods. Living in the middle of Salisbury plain since the 70’s, I have had lots of opportunitie...
The late version had a one piece barrel bearing plug. The early version had a two piece barrel bearing and booster plug.
The slots were used with the socket and wrench combo to remove the barrel bearing plug...but in a pinch you could use a screwdriver as a lever with the socket.
Both types could be seen in service at the same time...such as with the Canadian C5/C5A1 7.62 mm version of the M1919.
Go to the Master company website and look at their up close detailed images.
Or click here...
http://www.master-model.pl/index.php?page=shop.product_details&flypage=garden_flypage.tpl&product_id=447&category_id=14&option=com_virtuemart&Itemid=56
Hi
Nice looking parts.
Does any one know of a company that .50 cal barrels that don't have the barrel sleeves on them & also Do have the Flash Eliminators on them.
Need about 12 for a conversion I'm doing.
Shaun
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