I am presently working on the new Airfix A6M2 Zero right now; the Fine Molds 1/72 IJN seatbelt set came just in time for me to incorporate them into the cockpit. This new seatbelt set comes four in the package, molded in ABS plastic, and can be formed to the contours of the seat. Be very careful when bending these belts as they can be broken easily, I used brass rod of various diameters to bend the belts. I started by using a larger diameter rod first and gently rolled the belt around it, using progressively smaller diameter rods until I got the desired bend. Once the belts are bent as desired, they keep their shape. I used superglue to fix the belts to the seat with no problems.

The detail is in 3D when compared photo-etch and very crisp and highly detailed. I painted my belts with Citadel bleached bone and Tamiya red brown, with the buckles picked out with Model Master chrome silver dulled with raw umber oil paint. I followed this with a wash of MiG dark wash. The belts took the various brands of paint well with no issues. I am very pleased with the results; they look better than etch belts to my mind’s eye. In 1/72 they are, however, tricky to paint to do them justice. I plan on getting more sets in the future. See the pictures below. I recommend this set without reservation.

Thanks to Dragon USA and to IPMS/USA for the opportunity to review this sample.