On the page about the archive it says

"Please note that the Online Archive does not allow you to download and read issues offline. If you have a Digital or Print + Digital Subscription you can download your subscription issue by following the instructions at http://www.model-engineer.co.uk/digitalaccess."

To me it sounds like you can access the archive online, and can only download new issues as they are published.

I wanted some back issues, I have the print only subscription and contacted them to upgrade it. I gave up, first call they told me I could only do it at renewal time, and if i wanted it now i would have to buy a second subscription.

Second call to them, I can upgrade, but have to cancel my existing subscription. I was not totally convinced I would get a refund. Plus as my wife bought the subscription using paypal, I would have to do the whole lot by email.

A lot of faf, and knowing my luck I would either end up with no refund or missing a few issues.

I am now just buying them on ebay.

What issues do you want I have a few duplicate issues.

I think they can take a print sub and convert it into a credit to extend a digital sub, but I'm not 100% sure of the details.

If you get stuck, email me and I can put you in touch with someone who can help.

For paper back issues mags-uk usually has about a year's worth of issues available (varies due to demand).

Pocketmags has digital back issues no 192, August 2012, plus the 25 year special.

Neil