Reviewed by Timothy Dike
A new line of accessories for 1/700 scale modelers is now available from Paper Lab. Designed using Computer Aided Design (CAD), these parts existed virtually on computer, fine tuned and refined until being used to create masters for the white metal miniature parts. The result is that the parts are almost perfect copies of the original.
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The main image above is a rendered image of the 3D model. Note that some of the shapes are slightly exaggerated. The final part comes out with more subtle edges as the casting process has a way of rounding off some of the sharp edges. The result is some really awesome looking turrets that are far superior to anything that can be molded in plastic. This set includes 10 cast metal turrets with separate base mounts. They come packaged in a sturdy plastic case with a foam insert to help protect them from damage. The mounts are nicely cast with ribs around the circumference. The turrets have gun barrels that are supplied in two elevation angles. These parts are cast in Germany by Neptun, renown for their highly detailed 1/1250 ships. The casting is extremely well done, with hardly a hint of flash and requiring virtually no cleanup before using. If I could change one thing, it would be to make the barrels a separate casting so that brass replacement barrels could easily be used if desired. That probably wont be necessary as these barrels are thin and too scale. 
CONCLUSIONS
My impressions for these parts can be summed up in one word, WOW! Very nicely done, well researched, and well cast. If you want realistic parts on your 1/700 scale ships, skip the old Skywave weapons sets and go with parts that are true to scale and even more detailed. Paper Lab detail parts are currently available from  4 dealers: Pacific Front Hobbies, Morning Sunshine Models, White Ensign Models and L'Arsenal. Stay tuned for more from Paper Lab, this is but one of many accessories now available with much more planned.

This is set #FT70-002  US Single 5" mount  double knuckle- 10 per package and should carry a retail price of around $10.95. More information can be found by clicking their logo below.


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