discussion OTB decals

[Guest]

I think we all agree decals can make or break a well made kit. I know there are a whole load of after market decals, but I begrudge paying as much or more than the original kit. I mainly build WW2 aircraft 1/72 and 1/48. Can anyone recommend a kit they have built using the OTB decals and been satisfied with the quality of the decals.

 

[Adrian "Marvel" Reynolds]

I've never bought any decals, I build 1:48th in many makes of kits, Tamiya, Monogram, Eduard, Revell and Hobbyboss to name a few. I've never had any issues even with some kits been well over 20 years old, maybe I've been lucky so far

Adrian

 

[Ian M]

Well there are as many opinions about different kits decals as there are different kits.

Of all the different kit brands I have built, the only ones I will say are totally un-usable are ICM. Every kit I have done of theirs, the decals have been falling apart as soon as they hit the water. Many decal problems arise from age and how the kit has been stored. If the kit has been stored to warm or in sunlight, the decals tend to dry out.

Tamiya tend to be a safe bet, safer than most, at least.

There are various decal solutions you can use to make decaling a more pleasing experience, but not fool proof.

If you want to get some extra decals, as a back up, you might like to consider some sheets of generic markings. Serial codes, ID letters, and national markings. If you build a bit of every thing, this can be a hard way to go as you will need a good few. If however, you build say only British aircraft, the amount of sheets needed comes down to a manageable amount.

Also, you have found a pretty good forum here with loads of helpful members. So if you do find you have a decal that goes to pieces on you, you can ask on here if there is any one that has a spare. Post a request in the bits bin section.

Let me take this opportunity, to welcome you to the forum.

Ian M

 

[Guest]

Don't do aircraft as a rule but the Academy decals in their other kits are very easy to work with, i would presume they use the same quality paper and film for their aircraft.

Tamiya rate second in my experience, not for quality but for size and having to trim most to fit where they're supposed to.

As Ian says, there will most likely be some one on here that will have what you need, don't think any of us would begrudge a first class stamp to send them on to you.

 

[stona]

I agree with Ian. You can usually make most decals work though there will inevitably be the odd exception (usually for the reasons he explained).

Decals are often subcontracted to decal manufacturers so it's not always possible to be sure what's in what kit. I wouldn't worry unduly about it. Buy the kit and markings that you fancy,you'll be unlucky to come unstuck on the decals.

Cheers

Steve