Black Cat Models Review

Black Cat Models
1/350 U.S. Navy Paravanes

Reviewed by Martin J Quinn
March 2020

More new items from Black Cat Models of France have arrived. This time it is a set of U.S. Navy paravanes. Originally developed by the British, the paravane was a sort of towed underwater glider with a warhead that was used in anti-submarine warfare. It was later, and more commonly, used against naval mines.

Click to enlarge images

THE 20mm GUNS

The packaging is Black Cat's typical plastic clamshell container. The 3D printed runners containing the paravanes is secured to the bottom of the packaging with thick double sided tape, which prevents the runner from moving during shipping.

There are six large paravanes on one runner. The detail, as with everything I've seen from Black Cat, is really good. The planes and fins are nicely printed, but I especially like the fineness of the tow frames (the "arms" that attach the plane to the body of the paravane).

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

As with previously reviewed Black Cat products, these paravanes are really, really well done, and will look nice on your US Navy ships.

This is Black Cat Models set AC350035, U.S. Navy Paravanes. The set retails for about $7.50 USD, and is available directly from Black Cat Models or from some of our sponsors. Recommended.