Shells on hip armor

[NegativeEleven]

How long are the shotgun shell things on the rear hip armor? Of course this terrible kit I bought 3rd hand comes with two castings of all 3 shells ends, but putting them together flush looks like they'll be too short. 

[KOtrooper]

The middle cylinder is about 1.5". Are you able to cut the caps off of what you have and use wood dowels? If not, this is a very simple item to 3D print if you have access.

[NegativeEleven]

I was thinking about just trying to fill the space. Might wrap with paper then add resin.

[KOtrooper]

They need to be perfectly straight. You might want to insert a rod into each end of the three casings before adding resin to ensure they are aligned properly.

[NegativeEleven]

After some thought, the wooden dowel idea made more sense. Thanks.

They're attached to a small strip of ABS and I have a single zip-tie temporarily holding onto the hip armor.

I guess I could start a WIP thread, but I am doing this so incrementally that I don't feel my full WIP would be helpful for other people to see. I come here for advice on individual parts and when I can't find it, I post, so the info will be easy to find for the next person with the same questions. 

[KOtrooper]

Glad that worked out. I also put some scrap ABS on the back of mine with a snap on it. I initially thought of using velcro but the snap is stronger so twerps behind me can't easily swipe it during a troop.

[NegativeEleven]

I'll probably end up using threaded posts. Snaps seem too tall, and I want it to sit flush against the armor. Definitely want it removable cause I have a feeling this costume is gonna need repainting quicker than others.

Now I just gotta get backplate, shins and helmet so I can start painting it all.