Flying Leathernecks Decals is one of our favorite aftermarket decal manufacturers, but they also produce a number of other products including vinyl applique parts.  Here, we take a look at their 1:32 scale AV-8B/Harrier GR.7/9 Canopy Det Cord set.

One of the most visually distinctive features of the many unique aspects of the USMC AV-8B and British Harrier GR.7 and GR.9 is the det (or detonation) cord on the top of the canopy.  Should the canopy fail to jettison for any reason in an emergency situation, an explosive cord charge placed within the canopy’s polycarbonate/acrylic layers will shatter the canopy.  This will allow the ejection seat and its occupant to egress the aircraft unscathed if it comes down to that.    

This set contains a precision-cut self-adhesive vinyl set for two full AV-8B/Harrier GR.7/9 Canopy Det Cord sets.  They are designed with the Trumpeter kits in mind.  Overall, this is a great set.  It’s easy to use, especially thanks to the transfer tape that’s included.  It precisely captures the color and configuration of the det cord, and it’s absolutely necessary for any 1:32 scale build of the AV-8B/Harrier GR.7/9.  It sure beats painting and masking such a complex shape (the det cord configuration involves 14 very small and ultra-tight compound curves, and let’s just leave it at that!). 
  
Many thanks to Dave Beltran-Roof of Flying Leatherneck Decals for the review sample.  You can find them on the web at https://www.flyingleathernecksdecals.com and on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Flying-Leathernecks-Decals-137660979588449.  The sheet can be ordered straight from their website or at Sprue Brothers (http://spruebrothers.com).