I’m looking at some after market parts. The name Aires kept popping up so I decided I would narrow the search down to just them. So looking at F-14 extras. F-14A Tomcat Cockpit Set (For ACY) 1/48 Aires my question is this, what is the “ACY”? Some also have “HBO” or “HSG” “RVL”. I’ve tried after market parts in the past that werent made for a specific kit and it was kind of torture for me, so I’m trying to keep it al lin the family. Also, the link there is just a random F-14 set they had, I dont think I’ll spend 35 bucks on parts.
Academy, HobbyBoss, Hasegawa, Revell. Those acronyms refer to the kit brand. Also, I’ve used an Aires cockpit set meant for a Hasegawa kit in an old Tamiya kit. Takes some clever cutting and sanding, but it can be done.
Chris
Aires sets are resin, and while resin parts are expensive, they are very well detailed. When you go down the road of After market parts, things can get expensive. You just have to decide if you want to go all out or just get the odd bit.
Most AM sets whether Resin, PE or anything else is designed for specific kits. But as Chris suggests, they can be worked to fit any kit of that type.
I always try to go with the set designed for the kit manufacturer I have but sometimes it’s unavailable or out of stock so I go with whatever is at hand or on sale. It may require some more cutting and sanding to make it fit but sometimes you do get lucky and they just drop in.