The rocket bodies are printed complete with their launchers, and the only assembly required is to add the separate warheads. The level of detail is quite astounding, and the rocket bodies and launchers show a degree of delicacy that would be virtually impossible to achieve with conventional moulding or casting techniques. The rockets' fins have rivet detail and perforations at their bases, yet are so thin, they're translucent. They offer the true-to-scale appearance that would normally involve attaching etched fiddly metal parts and trying to ensure they're set at the correct angles. Here, all that messing about is done away with - plus, they're more detailed than etched fins would be.
Set #BR48526 contains 6 x rockets on individual launchers, while #BR48527 contains 8 x rockets paired on 2-tier launchers, one rocket hung beneath the other.
The rocket bodies arrive in a "cat's cradle" of 3D printing attachments, and removing the parts requires extreme care. This definitely isn't a job to rush, or you'll risk damaging the parts. I used an RB Productions Pico Saw to gently work through the tiny attachments without overstressing the delicate parts - especially the rockets' fins.
Once the parts are removed, they are robust enough to clean up the attachments with a very fine file or sanding pad - but, again, this isn't a job to tackle if you're in a hurry or heavy-handed. Once done, though, the finished rockets look simply superb.
The sets don't include any instructions, but none are really required - assembly is self-explanatory. No decals are provided, but if you wish to add stencil markings here's a reference photo that I took when I was a volunteer at the RAF Museum in Hendon, plus the diagram that I prepared for Mal Mayfield's excellent article on detailing 60lb rockets on the old Aeroscale site.
Conclusion
3D printing has transformed the way items like this can be produced, and brought with it a level of delicacy and detail that we could only have dreamed of even a few years ago. Barracuda Studios' rockets are right at the pinnacle of what's achievable and, so long as you have suitable tools to prepare them, give outstanding results with minimal fuss.
Both sets are available now from Barracuda Studios - Price: $14.95 each:
#BR48526 - Sea Fury RP-3 Rockets and Rails
#BR48527 - Sea Fury 2-Tier RP-3 Rockets and rails
Many thanks to Barracuda Studios for the sample sets.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE