Black Cat Models Review

Black Cat Models 1/350
Mk 37 gun director with Mk 4 antenna

Reviewed by Martin J Quinn
April 2019

Black Cat Models from France continues to produce new 3D printed accessories. One of their latest is a pair of Mk 37 gun directors, with the Mk 4 antenna. The Mk 37/Mk 4 combination was found an many US Naval vessels during the Second World War, and beyond. It came in different styles and shapes, with various radar configurations. This appears to be an version of the director, as it has the Mk 4 radar.

Click to enlarge images

THE 20mm GUNS

The packaging is a plastic clamshell container, with the 3D printed runner containing the directors and radars secured to the bottom of the packaging with thick double sided tape. This prevents the runner from moving during shipping. As with earlier reviews of Black Cat products, to avoid breakage while taking photographs, I left the directors and radars affixed to the tape.

There are two Mk 37 directors and two Mk 4 radars in the package. The detail is exceptional. Some of the details that stand out are the incredible handrails and ladder on the Mk 37 director, which actually stand off from the director body. There are small notches in the top of the director for the frame of the radar. There are some 3D printed lines on the body of the Mk 37 director, but they are more noticeable in digital photos then to the naked eye.

Then there is the Mk 4 radar. Not only is the bracing and frame very well done, but the radar screen itself is stunning. It amazes me that it's actually 3D printed - it almost looks like someone grafted photo etch onto the 3D printed frame. It's that good.

Close ups of some of the parts details.

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 directors and radars are outstanding. The print quality is first rate, with superb details. I'm especially impressed with the hand rails, ladders and radar screen. These are the finest Mk 37 directors I've seen, the inclusion of the radar makes this the go to upgrade set for modelers looking to enhance the detail on their USN World War II era builds.

This is Black Cat Models set AC350013a, Mk 37 gun director with Mk 4 antenna. The pair retails for about $12.50 USD, and are available directly from Black Cat Models. Highly recommended.