Scale Plastic & Rail

1:32 German Light Bomber Seatbelts from MDC

1:32 German Light Bomber Seatbelts
MDC
Catalogue # E32008
Available from MDC for £8.50

With the recent release of the Revell 1:32 Heinkel He 111 adding to the increasing numbers of large Luftwaffe models we can buy, the market is certainly opening up to supply us modellers with aftermarket improvements. One area never to skimp upon is the cockpit, which is a prime area that we like to improve upon and correct. To add to their existing range of 1:32 seatbelt sets, MDC has now released this set, aimed directly at large scale Luftwaffe modellers who tend towards the larger subjects.

The 1:32 German Light Bomber Seatbelt set does exactly what it says 'on the tin', to paraphrase a well-known TV advert. Packaged into a zip-lock bag, and lightly taped to a backing card stiffener, this set of etch belts contains enough parts to fit out the crew positions of either a Ju 88 or that He 111.

Two sets of pilot seat harnesses are included, as are two bombardiers. Don't take those names literally though, as the bombardiers harness may be used in various crew locations, as can that of the pilot harness. For example, the bombardiers set may be used within the ventral gun position of the He 111. The photo etch belts require no 'threading' to assemble as they are produced with the buckles and straps in situ. All you need to do is to assemble the various pre-etched belt and buckle sub-assemblies. It really is very simple.

If though, you wish to make your belts from a material such as lead-foil or paper, then this set provides all the photo etched buckles separately, so you can do that. You'll just need to take your strap measurements from the etch straps, and add a little on for any folding over during threading.

There are two sets of rudder pedals included on this set. One set is specifically for the Junkers Ju 88, whilst the other more unusual looking pedals are designed to fit the Heinkel He 111.

Instructions are included to show you how to assemble the belts, with  a second sheet which indicates how they are installed to the various crew locations.

So what do we think?
For the number of belts in this set, accompanied with the rudder pedal sets, this is an ideal and inexpensive way to bolster your cockpit detail and install more authentic rudder pedals at the same time. Etch quality is excellent. Just remember to anneal the belts so that you can form them more accurately.

Highly recommended

Our sincere thanks to MDC for the review sample used here. I can't yet see this set online, so please contact them via their website so that you may place your order.

James H