Black Cat Models Review

Black Cat Models
1/350 40mm Bofor Quad AA Guns

Reviewed by Martin J Quinn
May 2019

Black Cat Models of France continues to release new 3D printed subjects. Among the latest releases is a set of 40mm quad gun mounts, 40mm Bofors quad Mark 2 mod.2. This weapon was the signature medium anti-aircraft gun of the US Navy during World War II, with the quad mount being found on everything from aircraft carriers to destroyers. For more on this weapon, check out NavWeaps.com.

Click to enlarge images

THE 20mm GUNS

The packaging is Black Cat's typical plastic clamshell container. The 3D printed runners containing the guns, barrels and Mk 51 directors is secured to the bottom of the packaging with thick double sided tape, which prevents the runner from moving during shipping. As with earlier reviews of Black Cat products, to avoid breakage while taking photographs, I left the parts affixed to the tape.

There are three runners in the package. The largest holds four "mounts", which encompasses the stand and training gear, loaders platform and rails, ejections shutes, etc. Another runner holds the eight sets of twin 40mm barrels, each with training sights. The last runner consists of four Mk 51 directors.

Some of the details that stand out are the guardrails around the back of the loaders platform, and the diamond tread plating on the platforms itself. The training sights and recoils spring on the barrels are very finely printed as well. Below are photos comparing the Black Cat 5in/38 vs. manufacturers versions, where you can see the higher level of detail on the 3D printed parts.

Close ups of some of the parts details.



3D printed parts vs. kit parts. Merit (left) Trumpeter (right)

INSTRUCTIONS

There are no instructions in the box, but the packing directs you to the Black Cat Models website. There, on a data page for the particular item, you will find instructions on how to remove the printed supports that are part of the 3D printing process.

CONCLUSIONS

These 3D printed set of 40mm guns are excellent. As with previously reviewed Black Cat products, the print quality is very good, the details are superb. I'm especially impressed with the hand rails, the training sights and the tread plating on the platforms. Even if the latter may be a bit over scale, it will look good under a coat of paint. These will certainly be an upgrade to kit supplied parts.

This is Black Cat Models set AC350006b, 40mm Bofors quad Mark 2 mod.2. The set - there are four in the pack - retails for about $14.00 USD, and are available directly from Black Cat Models. Highly recommended!