 Regional aircraft types have not been well covered in 400 scale. This isn't too surprising given their small size and the fact model costs don't decrease dramatically with smaller models. Fortunately, 3D Design Deck's new method of production, using 3D printing for the model and UV printing for the liveries, is more amenable to smaller aircraft at lower volumes. The Beech 1900D must be one of the smallest, if not the smallest, types ever attempted in the scale. I'm excited to see what 3DD have been able to do. For my previous reviews of 3D Design Deck models see: Each review is to split into three key areas:
This review is sponsored by YankeeVictor400. Check out their store for 3D Design Deck, Gemini Jets, Inflight200, JC Wings, NG Models, Panda Models, Patriot Models & Phoenix Models and get 13% off!  MOULD / FILE  I'm aware that 3D Printing obviously doesn't use a mould and these models are created from digital files that are reproduced by the printer. With that in mind I'll try not to use the word mould! 400 Scale has seen some small models and I've discussed the smallest previously here at the site - see:  Alongside the Saab The Saab 340 is the smallest of the die-cast equivalents and like many other regional types is a product of JC Wings early years. The Beechcraft 1900D, despite the increased fuselage height that distinguishes it from the 1900C, is even smaller. It is worth keeping that size in mind, especially when I'm using macro photography here, which at this size is a little unkind since it brings out things the naked eye simply doesn't see.  The entire model is about 5cm long - that's under 2 inches to my American friends This actually isn't the first attempt at the 1900D as 3D Design Deck produced a couple in 400 scale in October 2023. That early version was relatively rudimentary, but 3D Design Deck has come a long way in a very short time and this new version is far more impressive.   Whereas the first attempt was a little square this new version is far more successful at modelling in the curvature of the fuselage and thinness of the control surfaces. Given the tiny size the shape of the aircraft is excellent. The curves of the nose and cockpit region stand out especially for me as being very accurate.  Likewise, the form of the wings and stabilisers is good. There are some minor compromises with the shape of some of the smaller extremities, such as winglets, rear side stabs and fin aerial on the roof, but there presence in such fidelity at all is impressive.  A couple of the pointier spots (tailtop tip and engine prop spinner) could be pointier, but this may well be a limitation of the technology. None of these critiques are at all serious and you have to applaud the accuracy of things like the squared off tailcone and underside stabilisers. An area that could perhaps be due some modification is the shape of the underside of the engine nacelles.  In these macro-photography shots there is some lateral linework just about visible (and picked up by the camera flash), presumably an artefact of the printing, but this is not visible with the Mk1 eyeball.  Given the scale obviously the undercarriage is an area of necessary compromise, however it is suprisingly detailed, especially at the maingear, which for example has the separate side by side gear doors.  With the minute size of the model none of the criticisms I have called out standout when viewing with the human eye. This is a fantastic little Beechcraft, which rewards the, no doubt large, effort that has gone into its creation. SCORE - 8  PAINT & LIVERY  Mesa Airlines is one of the great survivors of the regional market and the name survives into 2026 despite it having been acquired by the Republic Airways Holdings group. It's all E175s nowadays, but through its long history it has operated an impressive array of aircraft, including an astounding 178 Beech 1900s.  N3YV was painted into this anniversary scheme around 2000, probably to celebrate Mesa's first 20 years, and was still wearing it four years later. It seems to have flown mainly for America West Express from Mesa's Phoenix hub.  I like the scheme, which has a deep purple belly doubling as the desert horizon with several mesas present towards the rear. The colours of the model are super accurate and livery elements are well positioned.  The aircraft didn't always operate with the white nosecone the model has, I'd probably have preferred it without it, and the white on it could do with being a bit larger. Printing resolution is very good, certainly it looks amazing at 1:1.  In these macro shots the tail resolution doesn't look as good as with the naked eye and the MESA titles could be whiter. The tiny white text under the cockpit (I can't even read in actual photos of the real thing) is sensibly left off. SCORE - 8  PRINTING & QUALITY CONTROL  It is a source of amazement to me that printing onto such a tiny model with this level of quality is possible at all. Once again, the macro photos don't do justice to how good the model looks with the eye. The print detail is nearly at the level of a diecast model of the same size.  The printing is all tidily done, although the nosegear leg should be white, not yellow, you barely notice it as it is so small. The same goes for the VHF aerial on the rooftop.  The 3DD models I own have been surprisingly sturdy, helped by their light weight giving them a resilience diecast lacks, however these Beechcraft are a lot more delicate. Indeed, when I was trying to remove the model from its foam cradle I unwisely held it by the top of the vertical stab, which detached. Of course another benefit of the light nature of the product is that it is easy to stick back on and you can't tell it was ever not attached.  The model comes with the usual cuboid box and sleeve of 3DD models. The internal foam provides ample protection to the model and the box is marked up manually with the number in the production run - in this case model 21 of 120 made. SCORE - 9  SUMMARY  I had been really looking forward to seeing the Beechcraft realised and I have not been disappointed. The models and overall package illustrate the labour of love that 3D Design Deck clearly is for the founder. With existing diecast tech it was never likely that a 1900D would have been a viable product so it is hats off from me to 3DD for making it a reality with their innovative approach. These models may be tiny, but they still display beautifully and are more than worth collecting. FINAL SCORE - 25/30 
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AuthorI'm Richard Stretton an aviation enthusiast and major collector of 400 scale models. On this page I take a detailed look at new releases. This site is free. Please donate to keep it going.
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