Model Upgrades & Accessories

Instrument Panels – The Key to a Realistic Cockpit

Instrument panels are one of the most crucial elements for achieving a realistic model interior, especially for aircraft, but also for armored vehicles and ships. The cockpit and its details are often the main focal point for any observer. Stock parts, molded in plastic, are often simplified and fail to fully capture the detail of the original. In this category, you will find ready-to-use sets that allow you to easily replace or enhance the standard components, giving your model a professional look without the tedious task of painting the tiniest dials and gauges.

We offer various types of instrument panels, tailored to the needs and skill levels of every modeler. The most popular are pre-painted, ready-to-install panels, like those from Yahu Models, which you simply glue in place of the stock part. They consist of several layers, creating an excellent 3D effect. Also available are photo-etched parts (e.g., from Eduard), which require painting and assembly but offer the highest level of detail. You will also find decals with printed dials and innovative 3D-printed resin panels that combine detail with ease of assembly.

When choosing an instrument panel, remember to match it to the specific aircraft or vehicle model and its scale (e.g., 1:72, 1:48, 1:32). With these accessories, even a basic model gains authenticity, and its cockpit becomes a miniature work of art, faithfully replicating the real machine.

What are 3D decals and how do they enhance model realism?

3D decals are modern modeling accessories that allow for achieving an incredibly realistic, three-dimensional effect on plastic models. Unlike classic, flat water-slide decals, 3D versions have a tangible and visible texture. They are most often made of precisely applied resin on a clear carrier film, which creates raised details. Thanks to them, you can easily replicate elements that would be very time-consuming and difficult to paint by hand, especially for beginner modelers. These types of decals perfectly imitate instrument panels in airplanes and cars, panels with switches, seat belts for pilots or crew, and even the heads of rivets or screws. They add depth to the model and make the final result much more convincing.

Application and advantages of using raised decals

One of the biggest advantages of 3D decals is their ease of use. Application does not require specialized softening solutions, as is the case with traditional decals. Usually, you just need to carefully cut the required element from the sheet, remove it from the carrier film with tweezers, and place it in the desired location on the model. The adhesive on the back of the decal ensures a good hold, although in some cases, you can further secure the detail with a small amount of cyanoacrylate glue or varnish. Using pre-made 3D details is a huge time-saver and guarantees consistency and precision that is difficult to match with brush painting. In this category, you will find a wide selection of 3D decals for aircraft, armored, and civilian vehicle models in various scales. We offer both sets dedicated to specific machines and universal sheets with various types of gauges, placards, or rivets.

What are 3D Prints in Scale Modeling?

3D prints are a modern solution for creating highly precise and detailed parts to enhance your scale models. 3D printing technology, most often using UV-cured resins, enables the creation of complex shapes that would be difficult or impossible to produce with traditional plastic injection molding. This allows modelers to enrich their projects with details unavailable in standard kits, significantly increasing their realism and value. In this category, you'll find ready-to-use prints that simply need to be prepared and integrated into your model. They are an excellent alternative to traditional resin or photo-etched parts, often offering an even higher level of detail.

What 3D Accessories Can You Find Here?

Our range of 3D prints includes a wide assortment of accessories for various types of models – from armored vehicles and aircraft to ships and civilian vehicles. Here you can find detailed cockpit and combat compartment interiors, armament sets like machine guns and cannon barrels, realistically patterned wheels and tracks, as well as small details such as tools, jerrycans, and crew gear. We also offer complete conversion sets that allow you to transform a standard model into a less common variant. Each part is designed with meticulous attention to historical and technical accuracy, ensuring a perfect fit and an outstanding final result.

Working with 3D printed parts is similar to working with resin components. Before use, the print should be carefully cut from its supports, then cleaned and any remnants smoothed out. Cyanoacrylate (CA) glue is recommended for attaching the prints to the model. While working with these parts requires some care, the resulting unique and highly-detailed model is well worth the effort.