Black Cat Models Review - 90mm Twin AA Gun

Black Cat Models
1/350 Marine Nationale 90mm AA Twin AA Gun (under shield)

Reviewed by Martin J Quinn
October 2024

Black Cat Models has sent some of their newer accessories for review. Among the latest releases are Marine Nationale weapons, 1/350 AC350173 90mm AA twin gun under shield (x2). According to NavWeapons this weapon was "intended to replace the 75 mm (2.95") AA guns used on older ships. Used an autofretted barrel and a semi-automatic Schneider breech mechanism." They were mostly found on the Suffren, Émile Bertin and La Galissonnière class cruisers. They were also fitted on some escort/minesweepers of the Élan and Chamois classes as well as emergency AA on the battleship Jean Bart.

Click to enlarge images

The packaging is Black Cat's typical plastic clamshell container. There are three 3D printed runners included, secured to the bottom of the packaging with thick double sided tape.

One runner holds the bases for the weapons, another contains the barrels, and the third the shields.

Details are terrific. There are nice seats on the bases, sights and trunnions on the barrels - which have open muzzles. The shields are especially impressive, with rivet detail and finely printed grab handles.

Close ups of some of the parts details.


INSTRUCTIONS
If you got to the Black Cat website, and navigate to the page for this part, you will find downloadable directions, which show you how to remove the parts from the print raft.

CONCLUSIONS

I'm really impressed with these finely printed AA guns. They are finely printed, and are far more detailed than the kit parts found on the Trumpeter Marseillaise. Highly recommended.

This is Black Cat Models 1/350 AC350173 90mm AA twin gun under shield (x2). The set retails for $9.15 USD, and is available directly from Black Cat Models - who I'd like to thank for this review sample - or from some of our fine sponsors. Highly Recommended!