Introduction

Artillery ammunition has standard markings and colors to tell the user what type of ammunition the round is, what type of weapon and size it is used with, manufacture lot numbers and some other specialized information. In the case of 155mm and 8 inch (203mm) artillery ammunition, these are separate loading ammunition. That is the projectile is separate from the powder increments. Both the projectile and the powder packing canister have markings.

For more information on artillery ammunition and modeling artillery go here

Archer Fine Transfers has released a set of markings for 115mm and 8 inch shells that will cover post-WWII all the way up to today, and are perfect for Korean/Cold War/Vietnam/ODS and OIF.

contents

Archer’s Transfer sheet contains enough stencils for eighteen each 155 mm projectiles and powder containers, and fourteen each 203 mm projectiles and powder containers.

The transfer set also comes with a small slice of Archer Wet Medium Paper for positioning the transfers.

the review

The markings are good for shells that don't come with stencils, but I was a bit disappointed all of the markings are for HE (High Explosive) projectiles for both calibers. There are many other types of ammunition such as WP (White Phosphorus), HC (Smoke), Illumination, DPICM (Dual Purpose Improved Conventional Munitions as a few. Hopefully Archer will issue another sheet with some of these.

For those of you who are nervous about using dry transfers, the set also comes with Archer Wet Medium Paper. This allows for positioning the white bands on the powder containers more easily and accurately.The wet medium paper supplied with the set is minimal, so it may be to your benefit to purchase a full packet of it just for ease of application.

Instructions

The transfer set comes with clear illustrated instructions. Archer also has a tutorial on their website (click here). If you clear coat your decals with solvent-based overcoats, be sure you limit the amount to a fine mist, as too much can attack the transfers and cause their colors to bleed.

Conclusion

This transfer set is excellent for any kit-supplied projectiles and/or powder containers which do not have markings, or for the modeler who is casting additional ammunition and needs markings. For US artillery builders, it's a must-have.