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1/350 3D Printed Aircraft Cranes for New Orleans Class Cruiser (Welded Backs)
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Reviewed
by
Martin J Quinn |
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| In the early 20th century, navies of the world have been adding aircraft to ships, to use for spotting gunfire, reconnaissance, scouting and, later, for anti-submarine work and also search & rescue missions. Once aircraft were added to ships, cranes for handling the aircraft became a necessity. Various designs evolved in different navies, including the US Navy. Red Devil Designs has released a set of 3D printed cranes specific to the New Orleans Class cruisers. These cranes are the version with the welded backs. | |||||||||
 Click to enlarge images |
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| RED DEVIL CATAPULTS | |||||||||
| My cranes were part of
a larger order, so they were package together with other
items, taped to the lid of an upside down plastic
container.
There are two cranes per print raft. The details on these are very good - there are finely printed railings around the slew head housing, with individual vertical ladders printed to the sides of the same, and on the kingpost. The crane boom is also nicely done, with nicely done lightening holes, cross-members and sheaves. The only thing you'll have to provide is fine line for the ropes/wires. The set one pair of cranes, enough to do a pre-war or early war New Orleans class cruiser. |
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| CONCLUSIONS | |||||||||
| Modelers have had to deal with
clunky solid plastic cranes, or have had to try and put
together photo-etch replacement booms for years. Now,
for those of you building US Navy New Orleans class
cruisers, you can get a set of these 3D printed cranes,
to spare yourself the misery of trying super gluing
photo-etch parts together (or to yourself), while
upgrading your kit supplied parts in the
bargain. These cranes are nicely done, and a very
useful accessory. There are some print lines
visible, especially on the tops of the crane booms, but
I think those will be less noticeable under a coat of
paint.
This is Red Devil Designs, 1/350 3D Printed Aircraft Cranes for New Orleans Class Cruiser With Welded Backs (x2). They are priced at $13.95 USD per set, and are available directly from Red Devil Designs, via their eBay Store. That is where I purchased mine (please note everything in his store is printed upon order - he doesn't stock these parts). Highly recommended. |
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