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Introducing Toff Decals
Toff is a company that is new to me. Since I also build aircraft, I searched for Hungarian markings and came across mention of this brand. After finding the website, I thought I entered a computer store until I noticed 'scale models' on the menu.
Well, I got the decals I requested but was surprised that the two products were now one! On a single sheet measuring 2.8 inches by 4 and a half (61 x 44 mm), one will find several marking options.
The Decal Sheet
The sheet is stapled to a cardboard header and sealed in a plastic bag. There is a common carrier film which requires the user to carefully cut the images free before use.
My method to successfully use these types of decals is to first cut very close to the image with a new scalpel or Exacto blade. Be careful to only cut through the film and not through the paper! Then use sharp scissors to cut the image free while allowing some space around it.
Soak the marking in warm water and brush away the clear film debris. The image is now ready to transfer onto the model.
My regular SuperScale regimen worked well. It should also work well with the Microsoft system. Note that Solvaset is much stronger. After drying, there was no silvering or bubbles caused by trapped air.
The Markings
As the photo shows, the markings provide five smaller and two larger three color national markings as used on early vehicles until the PzKpfw. Ausf. F1. There are also five smaller and two larger two color markings which were common on Hungarian built vehicles during the late war period. I did not find any instances of these markings used on German vehicles used by the Hungarians.
The lower half of the sheet contains three full sets of numbers in white and two sizes of black. The black sets are to be used to create registration plates. Prefixes, in the form of H for the Army and Pc for armored cars, are included in two sizes as well. These would go before the national shield.
Two types of registrations plates are given, one having a white background while the second is transparent. Only enough are given for one vehicle of each. There are also three small sets and two large sets of numbers, from zero to six, to be used for turrets. On the PanzerKampfwagen IV Ausf F, the smaller numbers were used on the rear of the turret bin while the larger ones were on the sides of the turret stowage bin.
Seven badges are shown for six different units (the lightning flash is given twice). This means that only one complete set of markings can be made. The lack of instructions or placement guide also limits the usefulness of this sheet.
Conclusion
The quality of the sheet is very good. The accuracy of the markings matches well to references used. The sheet is recommended. Thanks to Toth Peter for the review sample.
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