As the title suggests this set is a photo etch set containing seven different sizes of rivets, discs, and washers and is the first photo etch product from Mig I have acquired. The photo etch fret is in a clear poly bag with a black card as backing.
Review
The photo etch fret is 51mm X 52mm with the rivets, discs and washers in three vertical rows with the seven different sizes running from the largest at the top to the smallest at the bottom. The largest size in each category is 2mm across, then 1.5mm, 1mm, and so on. The smallest sizes I was unable to measure as I had a hard enough time seeing them. In the largest size there are 15 rivets, 14 discs, and 18 washers while the smallest sizes have 66 rivets, 66 discs, and 55 washers. The variety is impressive, I had to use a desk magnifier to count the smallest ones!
The real beauty of this set and one that has been a long time coming is the fact that there are no connectors holding each piece in place. Instead on the back is a plastic film similar to the film that comes on glass to protect against scratches. This, to my mind, is the next big thing to hit photo etch after market products. I really hope it catches on and continues as not having to remove a piece from the sprue reduces the risk of damage to the item and does away with all that cleaning up which with the smaller parts can be a real nightmare. The other big plus with this method is it could lead to minimal waste as in theory it will all but do away with the need for a sprue and will therefore keep everyone concerned with green issues happy.
Conclusions
This particular set will be most helpful to those who are into scratch building models and parts as well as anyone who wants to get rivet detail and the like just so. It is worth saying again that with no connectors to the sprue this set is well worth the cost if you have uses for the parts.
SUMMARY
Highs: No damaging parts while removing from the sprue, no cleanup required. Lows: Packaging could result in damage to the product as I have my doubts about it being able to prevent bending of the fret. Verdict: All aspects of this photo etch with the exceptions of the packaging are pluses.
Our Thanks to MIG Productions! 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...
Darren,
Great review mate, your knowledge of PE is excellent.
What I didn't mention in my Hex bolts review was the 'damage factor'. When my kit arrived in the mail, sure enough, the bottom left hand corner was bent at about a 25 degree angle from flat. I left the fret under a book for a day and it returned to almost normal. I didn't mention it in the review as I put it down to Pat McGrath's vicious handling at the post office.
Chas
I would not call myself an expert in anything, and I am fairly new to its use. What I do try and do is write about the subject matter from a new or recent user perspective, as I feel these are the people who will gain the most from what to expect.
Comments