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Security bands are wrapped around the opening parts of the models for what
I see as two reasons.
To keep the opening parts closed during shipping so that the models present better on display in the stores. To establish a kind of 'pristineness' or 'virginal state' so that collectors know if the model has been opened.
I can understand the reasoning but I don't like the execution. I see three
problems with the bands.
The force exerted by tightly wrapped bands can distort the hinges and make the doors not sit properly against the body. The glue from the tape can get on the models. This is usually not a big problem but two models I have had to deal with recently have been. Anson uses a very sticky tape, almost like an adhesive thin foam tape, to stick the two ends of the bands together. This tape got stuck to the model high up in two wheel wells where access was difficult. I had to scrape it off with tweezers and then use a solvent on a Q-tip to remove the residue. A UT model had round stickers to keep the hood closed. Peeling these off also left a residue which required solvent to remove.
[I recommend Goof-Off or Goo-Gone to remove sticker residue.] - The worst problem of the three is the tendency for the bands to sometimes actually mar the paint finish.
I recently opened an Ertl Britain's release and found that under one band, which was in tight contact with the body, there was a mark in the paint. I don't know for sure if this is caused by moisture held in by the band or as a result of the band being applied before the paint has cured. Either way, I am having trouble polishing the mark out.
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