ISSUE 36
WORLD WAR ONE SPECIAL – THE BATTLE FOR EUROPE
M O R F HE T
T S A L B PAST
NOV 2013 £4.10
2 7 / 1 HE L ANE T G IN .8 BI P T A D UP IX R.E AIRF
MUD, BLOOD AND BULLETS WWI Male Tank Mk.I Airfix NOV UK 13.indd 1
DIRT, DUST AND DIESEL Land Rover 109' LWB
THE FEISTY FRENCHMAN SPAD XIII (Late Version) 13/09/2013 12:22
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EDITOR'S DESK WELCOME
ell, the kits that I want to make are arriving thick and fast! There’s a new 1/72 Su-27 Flanker B from Trumpeter, and Airfix has released the muchanticipated Harrier GR.1. As for new decal sheets, well, don’t get me started on those! RA-5C Vigilantes, A-1 Skyraiders, Kfirs and even Vietnam-era US Navy F-4 Phantoms… I’m asking myself if I have models for all of these? I think so, but as I write this Editor's Welcome my colleagues are putting the finishing touches to their models for IPMS Scale Model World. Humbrol keep on releasing paints and washes that certainly make the modeller’s life easier when creating that ‘operational’ look for a fighter, AFV or even a racing car. We also have the new German RLM Luftwaffe colours from Humbrol which have triggered new ideas for all those late-war Me 109G/Ks and Fw 190Ds that I’ve promised myself to make when time allows. While I admit I am biased towards 1/72 aircraft, browsing through the recent selection of car kits that came across my desk to be sent out to our contributors, has resulted in some Tamiya purchases at a local model show. I even managed to find some second-hand ROCO Minitanks, which are slowly being added to my war-gaming
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Advertising Commercial Director: Group Manager: Advertising Manager: Production Manager: Production Assistant:
Editorial
Editor: Assistant Editor: Editor's Secretary:
Glenn Sands Chris Clifford Julie Lawson
Regular Contributors
David D'Arcy, Steve Abbey, Jennifer Wright, Malcolm V. Lowe, Ian Hartup, Toni Canfora, Tom Sunley, Johan Augustsson, David Fisher and Ian Grainger
Design
Art Editor: Group Art Editor:
Production Sub Editor: Production Manager:
Tom Bagley Steve Donovan
Kay Kelly Janet Watkins
Marketing
Ann Saundry Brodie Baxter Sean Leslie Debi McGowan Danielle Tempest
Marketing Manager: Marketing Executive: Marketing Assistant: Subscriptions Manager: Mail Order:
Martin Steele Shaun Binnington Jess Jagger Roz Condé Joan Harwin Liz Ward, Ann Petrie
Managing Director: Executive Chairman:
Adrian Cox Richard Cox
Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, UK. Distributed by: Seymour Distribution Ltd, 2 Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PP. Tel: 020 7429 4000. Fax: 020 7429 4001. Printed by: Warners (Midland) plc, Bourne. Printed in England (ISSN 1471-0587).
collection, (yes, I am even giving that a go as well). And at this point I take my hat off to our contributors who have full-time jobs and families and who still manage to hit AMW’s requested deadlines. I have to send them all a big ‘well done’ and ‘thank you.’ I don’t know how they do it all! But as the airshows, military vehicle shows and car events begin to wind down in the UK, many modellers - myself included - are looking forward to the autumn evenings and colder weather when we don’t feel that we have to be outside soaking up the last of the autumn sunshine. Instead we can work on our next modelling project and hopefully I’ll get at least one Su-27 Flanker B kit finished to take to my local model club’s competition evening. Ta dah! Glenn Sands Editor
Subscriptions Please refer to main advertisement within the magazine. All applications stating name, address, date to commence and remittance to: Subscriptions Department, Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK. Telephone/24-hour answer machine: +44 (0) 1780 480404 Fax: +44 (0) 1780 757812 E-Mail:
[email protected] Airfix Model World (ISSN: 1471-0587) is published monthly by Key Publishing Ltd, P0 Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK and distributed in the USA by Mail Right Int., 1637 Stelton Road B4, Piscataway, NJ 08854. Periodicals Postage Paid at Piscataway, NJ and additional mailing offices.
All items submitted for publication are subject to our terms and conditions. These are regularly updated without prior notice and are freely available from Key Publishing Ltd or downloadable from www.keypublishing.com The entire contents of Airfix Model World is ©copyright, and no part of it may be reproduced in any form or stored on any form of retrieval system without the prior permission of the publisher. We are unable to guarantee the bona fides of any of our advertisers. Readers are strongly recommended to take their own precautions before parting with any information or item of value, including, but not limited to, money, manuscripts, photographs or personal information in response to any advertisements within this publication.
Readers in the USA can place subscriptions by visiting www.airfixmodelworld.com or by calling toll free 800-676-4049 or fax 757-428-6253 or by writing to Airfix Model World, 3330 Pacific Ave, Ste 500, Virginia Beach, VA23451-9828. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, c/o Mail Right International Inc.,1637 Stelton Road B4, Piscataway NJ 08854.
The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2012 was 12,175 copies monthly.
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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REGULARS 06 News The latest happenings in the world of modelling and exclusive updates direct from Airfix.
10 Show Scene A comprehensive up-to-date calendar of related events.
36 Subscribe and Save! Subscribe to Airfix Model World and make great savings!
38
ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
80 On the shelf Eleven pages of reviews bring you the latest kits, books and modelling products.
98 Cutting Mat Chat A final word from the ‘movers and shakers’ within the modelling industry.
50
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ADVANCED BUILD R.E.8
26
REFERENCE ROUND-UP WWI MALE TANK Mk.I
30
FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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12
ADVANCED BUILD EINDECKER E.III
FEATURES 12 Advanced Build – Fokker Eindecker E.III Steve Budd does a stellar job with Wingnut Wings’ late version of this classic fighter.
20 Military Build – World War One Male Tank Mk.I Richard Langford converts Airfix’s Male Tank Mk.I and affords it table-top gaming format.
30 Figure Build – Sergeant, Suffolk Regiment, 1914 Pete Watson explains how to convert, paint and base one of a superb range of 54mm Great War figures.
38 Advanced Build – Gotha G.IV Jan Maes has his hands full with Wingnut Wings’ gargantuan 1/32 Gotha G.IV.
48 Out and About – Duxford Airshow 2013 AMW editor Glenn Sands dodges the showers and braves the wind at this stunning event.
50 Advanced Build – Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 By relatively simple means, Peter Fearis updates Airfix’s long-in-the tooth R.E.8 biplane. Malcolm V. Lowe provides a brief look at the operational history of this fighter-bomber.
60 Review Build – SPAD XIII Jan Maes depicts the SPAD XIII of Charles Nungesser with Eduard’s 1/48 scale kit.
68 Out and About – Military Odyssey 2013 Kevan James reports from this remarkable militaria and collectors' event.
70 Skills School – Land Rover 109" LWB Alan Firbank improves Italeri’s LWB Land Rover and demonstrates Humbrol’s new Weathering Powders.
70
SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109' LWB
78 On the Road – The Australian Model Expo 2013 Rene de Koning reports from ‘Down Under’ on the Australian IPMS Expo. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
{BREAKING
NEWS!}
HQ FOR THE ADVANCING ALLIES
A REISSUE of an Airfix classic that will make many an AFV modeller happy. The Forward Command Post has plenty of spare accessories that can be used on military vehicles or smaller dioramas themselves. Unfortunately a base is not included with
this kit, although Amera Plastic Mouldings (www. amera.co.uk) provides a near perfect reproduction for £2.50 plus postage. A highly comprehensive painting guide is included but obviously no decals. For further details visit: www.airfix.com
KID QUICK BUILDS!!
NO GLUE, no paint, just build! A new range from Airfix aimed at the next generation of modellers will allow them to make a model of their favourite aircraft in record time without any mess! The six new aircraft releases are: Spitfire, Bf 109, Typhoon, Apache, F-22 and a Hawk. For details visit: www.airfix.com
FAKE FAGOTS!
THE MiG-15 and MiG-17 are famous Russian-designed fighters of the Cold War period. With Russian technological assistance, China copied the MiG-17 as the JI-5 (Jian JI-5) and commenced local production in the 1950s. The JI-5 built by Shenyang was a single-seat interceptor based on the MiG17F Fresco-C, plus China also exported it as the F-5. The People’s Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) obtained plans for the JI-5 in 1955 and the first
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aircraft flew the following year. Before production ceased in 1969, the PLAAF had received 767 JI-5 and JI-5A fighters. The JI-2, meanwhile, was the Chinese designation for approximately 2,000 Soviet-produced MiG-15 fighters imported to serve in the PLAAF from 1950-55. The JI-2 was flown widely by China during the Korean War, and the PLAAF only retired its last JI-2 examples in 1986. This boxing from Cyber-Hobby is a special 1/72 dual set, which
features both a JI-2 and a JI-5. Of course, the package includes appropriate PLAAF decal markings for these two aircraft types that served faithfully in China’s early years. There may be a few accuracy issues with regard to these kits, and the rivets are slightly heavy on the fuselage. Two different styles of rear sections are included, with the necessary modifications. Overall the package is well presented and given there are two models included it’s good value for Coold War fans. AMW extends its thanks to Cyberhobby importer Amerang for the review sample.
HEADER WAY BEYOND STEALTH AT SITE FOUR…
Copy FORGET YOUR F-15s, F-16s and F-22s...this may well be the future of air combat for the US Military! Long rumoured to have been flight tested from Site Four hidden in the mountains next to Papoose dry lake bed, a facility north of Groom Lake within Area 51, military ‘captured’ or ‘built’ UFOs have resulted in a wealth of books and documentaries. At last Pegasus Hobbies has taken the bold step of producing a kit of an AE-341.15B. But the best news is that it’s in 1/72 so won’t look out of place next to a suitably marked Edwards AFB test school F-16. Just think of the diorama possibilities? The UFO measures 24cm across and comprises just ten parts, not including the green 'windows'. No decal sheet is included but a suitable small American flag could be found and placed on the underside of one of the panels. Careful painting in various metallic shades will make or break the model – so check your references if you have any? We at AMW must confess to finding secret aircraft and black projects fascinating. While many prove to be little more than wishful thinking, as long as models of these rumoured super-secret USAF projects are produced then that’s fine by us. Priced at £18.99 it’s certainly different and we'll wait to see examples on display at IPMS Scale Model World in November...under heavy guard of course! For stockists visit: www.pocketbond.co.uk
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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A BOLT FROM THE BLUE! A SURPRISE re-release from Revell is its 1/72 P-47M Thunderbolt, with new decal options. Having established itself as one of the better 'Jugs' in this scale, there’s a small amount of flash on some parts that will need cleaning off with a sharp blade, but once together the kit will look great. There are a few issues that need to be kept in mind; the landing gear is too short for an unloaded aircraft and, according to USAAF reports, later P-47Ms were never equipped with highvelocity aircraft rockets so these are best assigned to the spares box. The pilot’s seat is over-sized for this scale but it’s nothing that a little ingenuity and plastic
card can’t fix, but these modifications will certainly improve the overall look of the finished model. The decal sheet, as one has come to expect from Revell, is stunning, with all the necessary stencil data
included, along with two blue camouflaged examples from the 56th Fighter Group, The two options being: • ‘Devastatin' Deb’, UN-F/421160, 63rd Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, 8th USAAF, Boxted, England, May 1945 (low-buzz reporting codes included) • LM-H, 421233, 62nd Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighter Group, 8th USAAF, Boxted, England, early 1945
TOWN-CLASS TREAT
MANY HAVE admired the stately warship HMS Belfast since it’s been a floating museum in the Pool of London - and many Airfix 1/600 kits have probably been built as a result of a visit. Now, though, this famous Royal Navy cruiser has been replicated in 1/350 scale by Trumpeter and will be most welcome; this version (05334) portrays the vessel in its 1942 fit. While generally accurate,
with decent moulding and a fret of photo-etched brass parts, there is no waterline option or moulded line for those who wish to portray the ship in this format. Also, if one wishes to pose the guns elevated, the centre barrel of each main armament turret is on the same pivot point as the outer two, whereas on the real thing it should be higher than those on either side. This isn’t a problem if the guns are posed in the
lowered position. The hull is substantial at just over 21in (54cm) and strengthening bulkheads are supplied. Restrained moulding of the plank decks is good and two Walrus floatplanes are supplied, as is a display stand. For those who always crave more embellishment, White Ensign Models is soon to release a dedicated etched metal detail set for this kit. Trumpeter’s Belfast is available via Pocketbond: www.pocketbond.co.uk
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
SUB’ FROM BOOK AND SCREEN VULCAN STORES Last issue we announced that White Ensign Models had released three large photo-etched metal detail sets for Airfix’s Vulcan (including a full bomb bay). It seems the firm has realised that modellers will probably want to arm their Vulcans properly, so has now released brand new resin 1/72 RAF 1,000lb bombs, in packs of seven. For further details, visit: www.whiteensignmodels.com
IRON MAN OOPS! In September’s issue we highlighted Dragon’s Iron Man figure kit but neglected to mention who provided our sample; it was Hobby Link Japan. Apologies to Scott and all at HLJ for the slip. www.hlj.com
SCIENCE FICTION specialist Pegasus Hobbies has released a wonderful rendition of The Nautilus submarine, inspired by Jules Verne’s classic novel 20,000 Leagues under the Sea.
With its parts spread across eight styrene runners and one clear, the design for this incredibly cool-looking craft comes from Greg deSantis, a noted concept specialist who works in the
BARREL-SHAPED SWEDE!
SOMETHING A BIT DIFFERENT! Thunderbird Models Ltd has released its first decal sheet, and it’s a winner! Designed for the 1/72 Revell/Matchbox Supermarine Stranraer, the beautifully-printed offering provides two options: CF-BXO ‘Alaska Queen’ and CF-BYM ‘Zeballos Queen’ of Queen Charlotte Airlines (QCA), which provided a passenger service along the British Columbia coastline in 1948. The airline grew into the third largest in Canada at the time and many made the comment that QCA stood for ‘Queer Collection of Aircraft’; It remained in operation until 1955. Printed by Fantasy Printshop, the decals are in perfect register and the colour instructions explain all necessary modifications needed to get the kit into airliner configuration. It’s worth noting that this sheet is the first of a series for the Stranraer and given the high-standard set here, we certainly can’t wait to see what else Thunderbird will release in the future. For details of how to purchase this £5.95 sheet: 72-011 Supermarine Stranraer Part.1 Queen Charlotte Airlines, visit the website: www.thunderbirdmodels.co.uk
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WHILE FANS of Swedish aircraft eagerly await the forthcoming 1/48 Viggen from Tarangus, the firm has, in the meantime, released a neat 1/72 J-29A/B Tunnan kit. Clearly an improvement on the old Airfix/Heller offering, this product exhibits delicate, engraved panel lines and rivets, recessed and raised detail on the instrument panel and side consoles, and there are pylons for the B version…but no under-wing stores are supplied aside from fuel tanks. The kit’s limited-run format does mean some areas could do with improvement, such as the undercarriage legs. There are, however, resin components for the undercarriage bays, jet pipe,
ejection seat and gun sight. The decals are flawless and offer three bare metal colour schemes: • 29303 Red M, F13, Norrköping • 29440 White G/UN, F22, Swedish Forces in Congo • 29368 Yellow J, F8, Barkaby, Stockholm For further details visit: www.tarangus.se
technical, entertainment, corporate and video game industries. The detail is impressive and an obvious ‘Steampunk’ homage to the original. Interior embellishment (double-sided sofa, bookcases and organ) is visible through the large, intricately-framed side windows and there’s a photo-etched brass fret with railings, grab-handles, steering linkages and other parts. Masks are provided for the windows and, in a clever move, the logo display base is equipped with a superb giant squid which holds/ supports the sub’; it has great sucker detail and skin texture. It’s certainly something different and will demand various modelling techniques for one to get the best results. Available from Pocketbond: www.pocketbond.co.uk
USCHI’S CHARMS
MORE THAN 30 new products are now in stock with Uschi van der Rosten’s UK distributor, Albion Alloys. The products include new wood grain decals in various scales, and these include birch veneers, planking and, useful for car modellers, a large grain suitable for automobiles from the 1950s and ‘60s. Nifty additions are two sheets of 1/35 footprint decals, superb for adding detail to armoured fighting vehicles; Armour modellers will also welcome the 1/35 mask sets with which to render disc and split-ring camouflage patterns on Panthers, but also available are 1/48 and 1/16 options. For those who use photo-etched (PE) metal, Uschi has designed dedicated brass applicator blades (under the FLEX-I-FILE label) for cyano glue and these fit X-Acto knife handles. For further details on these and other products, visit: www.albionalloys.co.uk
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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SHOW SCENE DIARY DATES OCT 5
NORTH SURREY SHOW
OCT 5
ABINGDON IPMS SHOW
OCT 5-6
MILITARY REVIVAL 2013
Hosts:
North Surrey Military Modellers Society
Hosts:
IPMS Abingdon
Hosts:
Touchdown Aero Centre
Address:
Thomas Wall Centre, 52 Benhill Avenue, Sutton, Surrey, SM1 4DP
Address:
Lakemead School, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1BB
Address:
Old Buckenham Airfield, Abbey Road, Old Buckenham, Norfolk, NR17 1PU
Times:
TBC
Times:
10:00 to 16:00
Times:
10:00 to 17:00
Prices:
TBC
Prices:
TBC
Prices:
£15 per car on show days
Tel:
N/A
Tel:
N/A
Tel:
01953 860806
Email:
TBC
Email:
[email protected]
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
N/A
Web:
http://www.abingdonipms.blogspot.co.uk
Web:
[email protected]
OCT 6
SECRET NUCLEAR BUNKER RALLY
OCT 6
SHUTTLEWORTH COLLECTION FLYING DAY
OCT 12-13
IRISH NATIONAL MODEL SHOW
Hosts:
Hack Green Bunker Society
Hosts:
Shuttleworth Museum
Hosts:
IPMS Ireland
Address:
French Lane, Nantwich, Cheshire, CW5 8BL
Address:
Shuttleworth (Old Warden) Aerodrome, North Biggleswade, Bedford, SG18 9EP
Address:
Pearse Hotel, Pearse Street, Dublin 2, Ireland
Times:
10:30 to 17:30
Times:
09:00 to 14:00
Times:
10:00 to 15:00
Prices:
Adults £8.25, Children £6.00
Prices:
Adults £20.00, Children FREE
Prices:
Adults €3.00, Children FREE
Tel:
01270 623353
Tel:
01767 627927
Tel:
N/A
Email:
[email protected]
Email:
[email protected]
Email:
[email protected] www.ipmsireland.com/Events.html
Web:
www.hackgreen.co.uk
Web:
www.shuttleworth.org
Web:
OCT 12-13
EURO-MODELL 2013
OCT 12-13
MAQUETTEXPO 2013
OCT 13
EXPO 2013
Hosts:
Modellbaufreunde Ried im Innkreis
Hosts:
Association Maquettiste Varoise
Hosts:
IPMS Lincoln and IPMS Newark
Address:
Rieder Messe, Brucknerstrabe 39, A-4910 Ried im Innkreis, Austria
Address:
Casino Forum 3, avenue Ambroise Thomas, Hyeres les Palmiers, France
Address:
Southwell Racecourse, Rolleston, Nottinghamshire, NG25 0TS
Times:
(Sat) 09:00 to 18:00 (Sun) 09:00 to 17:00
Times:
10:00 to 19:00
Times:
10:00 to 16:00
Prices:
TBC
Prices:
FREE
Prices:
Adults €7.50, Children 50 cent euros
Email:
N/A
Tel:
01935 840565
Email:
[email protected]
www.amv83.fr
Email:
N/A
Web:
www.euro-modell.com
Web:
www.lincolnmodelclub.co.uk
OCT 17-20
MIDLANDS MODEL ENGINEERING EXHIBITION
OCT 26
AUTUMN MODEL SHOW
Hosts:
Meridienne Exhibitions
Hosts:
Fleet Air Arm Museum
Address:
Warwickshire Exhibition Centre, Fosse Way, Nr Leamington Spa, CV31 1XN
Address:
Times:
10:00 to 16:00
Fleet Air Arm Museum, RNAS Yeovilton, Somerset, BA22 8HT
Times:
(Sat)10:00 to 17:00 (Sun) 16:00
Prices:
Adults £2.00, Child and OAP £1.00
Times:
Opens 10:00
Prices:
Adults £10.00, Child £5.50, OAP £9.00
N/A
Prices:
TBC
Tel:
01926 614101
Email:
[email protected]
Tel:
01935 840565
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
N/A
http://www.meridienneexhibitions.co.uk
http://letchworthsmc.yolasite.com/ showcase-2013.php
Email:
Web:
Web:
www.fleetairarm.com
KEY
E MODEL DISPLAY
)
m
MODEL COMPETITION AIRCRAFT DISPLAY
Web:
OCT 20
SHOWCASE 2013
Hosts:
Letchworth Scale Model Club
Address:
Broadway Hotel, Letchworth, Hertfordshire, SG6 3NZ
Tel:
J
MILITARY DISPLAY
REFRESHMENTS
AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY
FREE PARKING
TRADE STANDS
AIRFIX ROADSHOW ATTENDING
IMPORTANT: It is worth noting that ALL events are subject to change or cancellation. This information has been collated from a variety of sources and was believed to be correct at the time of going to press. To advertise your event here, email:
[email protected]
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Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD FOKKER E.III (LATE)
Although the moulded detail was perfectly acceptable, a decision was made to increase authenticity via few small additions and enhancements.
The oil tank, ammunition bin, spent cartridge box and carburettor intake built into a compact sub-assembly that was highly realistic straight from the box. Floor, seat, rear bulkhead and wing spar box were augmented by lengths of Reflo fishing line and HGW’s simply marvellous fabric seatbelt set.
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f okker’s formidable f ighter T
Steve Budd does a stellar job with Wingnut Wings’ late version of the Fokker Eindecker E.III
he design gestation of this significant aircraft relied heavily on influences rooted in the acquisition by Fokker, of the French Morane-Saulnier Type H in late 1913. Fokker had found itself facing potential collapse, in the wake of its unpopular ‘in-house’ products, notably the M.4. Test flights in the Morane left pilots deeply impressed, though, and Fokker was in no doubt that a new monoplane, incorporating and adapting its best features, would be a winning combination.
The resulting prototype was designated the Fokker M.5K and later evolved to become the E.I, E.II, E.III and E.IV, before giving way to other more advanced machines during the course of World War One. Wingnut’s first E.III boxing appeared in September last year, in its twin release entitled ‘The Duellists’ (32802), which included a sublime DH.2. The late production E.III covered here was released in October 2012 alongside a further kit set, which contained an early E.II / E.III (32018). All were warmly received, with an already
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD FOKKER E.III (LATE) Wingnut quality standards were matched by the exquisite Gas Patch Type C tensioners used within the already superb side frames, which included cable attachment loops.
established expectation of quality parts and fit.
Cockpit capers
MODEL SPEC
The very clear, well-illustrated instructions dictated that the pilot’s station was the place to begin. Numerous parts were cleaned up, pre-painted and weathered, while holes were drilled in the control column horns for 1/72 scale Bob’s Buckles to be added for easy attachment of cables derived from 0.05mm Reflo fishing line, threaded through tiny sections FOKKER E.III (LATE) By:
Wingnut Wings
Stock Code: 32048 Scale:
1/32
Price:
$69.00
Available from: Wingnut Wings, www.wingnutwings.com
of Griffon Models’ 0.5mm (GCPBHP02) brass tube, before the lines were ‘locked’ with very small drops of water-thin cyanoacrylate (CA) applied to one end of the tube via a piece of fine wire. The website www.bobsbuckles. co.uk provided a great schematic explanation for this method of rigging plus a short video, which was essential reference. The small instrument panel had its moulded detail removed and was given a wood finish, before the items were reinstated via a photo-etched (PE) metal bezel selected from HGW’s 1/32 WWI Instrument Bezel set (132030) and PE fuel cock switches from the spares box, while coiled copper wire from a miniature electric motor, formed round a small drill bit, was used to finish the piece. The same cabling method was employed for the side frame cross bracing, but detail here was enhanced with the addition of exquisite Gas Patch 1/32 tensioners (32006 Elite Accessories Type C). These were deemed far superior to PE types and gave true ‘3D’ realism, although this builder would, on reflection, have used 1/48 versions in this
The fuselage halves were doused in Alclad II Aluminium; the ‘stippled’ finish rendered in Xtracolor X503 Oily Steel gave it similar appearance in the cockpit shadows to that seen in reference photos.
The cowling was primed and the paint was polished to provide the best possible foundation for the Alclad II Aluminium that was applied later. The blast plate was formed over a 35mm film canister.
Wingnut’s attention to detail was profound. The Continental ‘rubber’ included meticulous tyre logos, which were fully readable under the appropriate level of magnification.
The critical step at this point was to adjust the fit of the wing spar box, until the gaps in the fuselage join were closed. This was the only part of the initial assembly that required such intervention.
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD FOKKER E.III (LATE) The Garuda propeller included beautifully-printed manufacturer’s logo decals, which were faultless during application; the gloss shine was eventually muted with Xtracolor XDSS Satin Varnish.
The faithfully reproduced main undercarriage frame was aligned and allowed to set by plugging it into its sturdy fuselage locating slots. Holes for Bob’s Buckles were drilled while they were still accessible. The gear and back plate completed with wood finish (right), was not described in the instructions but believed by the builder to be part of the synchronising mechanism for the machine gun.
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area, as the 1/32 examples were perhaps slightly oversized for this application. The wood flooring and back panels required two different tones and each was rendered in the time honoured fashion of an acrylic base, followed by oil paint, brushed out to leave a ‘grain’. The seat was provided with PE belts in the kit as standard, but use was made instead of the superb HGW ‘fabric’ belt set (132512), which allowed simple and more realistic weathering and drape. A cautionary note - the basic cockpit components (floor, side frames and oil tank) required dry-fit tests within the fuselage. It was an overly tight squeeze, which was alleviated by reducing the width of
the ‘box’ (immediately behind the wood bulkhead, aft of the seat), which would later accept the wing spars. Left untreated, there was the certainty of gaps appearing in the upper and lower fuselage seams. All told, the assembled tub was a model in its own right and consumed a proportionately high volume of pleasurable build hours. Stage 2 of the instructions was the point at which a choice over the finished aircraft had to be decided. The selection was Option A Fokker E.III 405/15 of Otto Pfalzer (3 victories) and Ernst Udet (62 victories), based at Kek Habsheim in March 1916, and the correct upper cowl part was set aside. The fuselage was masked and finished to represent the turned metal forward section and ‘Fokker Grey‘ fabric that lay aft (there was a choice here to use ‘Fokker Beige’ instead), with what was construed as a leather reinforcement strip that bordered the two, later handpainted using Revell 83. With the fuselage together, the half-dozen parts that dressed the cowl, lower stitching and under tail fabric were added and the seams tidied, before
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ADVANCED BUILD FOKKER E.III (LATE)
aside for the end of the build to protect it from damage.
Wheels and bungees Stage 4 of the build guide tackled assembly of the three-part undercarriage framing, which was glued lightly and then dryfitted into the locating slots of the upturned fuselage, which doubled as a handy jig. A little more thin cement finalised the joins and was left to cure overnight. Once dry, it was treated to Halfords’ Universal Primer Grey, sourced from a tin and blended with anti-bloom cellulose thinner for maximum
a change of pace was enjoyed in creating the large, whirly thing that sat at the business end.
Motoring along The E.III’s powerplant was a ninecylinder Oberursel U.1, rendered with fine detail but saddled with a small drawback of the injection moulding process, which required it to be presented in halves. The concept of removing the seams was synonymous with destruction of the very fine finning, so it was cemented with Micro Weld, a very gentle adhesive that was nonetheless effective in reducing the join, without sanding or fin damage. This rotary engine ran on a type of ‘total loss’ lubrication system, which ejected castor oil in a fine mist that quickly coloured the engine in brown tones and stained the fuselage fabric. A well-used look was the order of the day, achieved through a base coat of Alclad II Aluminium with AK Interactive’s Track Wash 083 dabbed over and ‘stumped’ with a brush moist (but not fully wet) with white spirit, which dissolved the Track Wash and turned it
into a kind of wash-come-paint, which was easy and forgiving to manipulate. All was then sealed with a coat of satin varnish. The engine rear was dressed with copper wire that connected each spark plug to the distributor collar. The kit motor was moulded with two spark plugs per cylinder, which necessitated careful removal of the side mounted items with a sharp blade, to match that of the Oberursel. Two manufacturer plates were provided as decals for either side of the casings…typical of Wingnut’s close attention to detail. The engine was then set
Over-use of liquid poly was almost certainly responsible for slight sinkage of the top fuselage seam… and was cured later with Gunze Mr. Surfacer 1000.
Main components were base-coated with Tamiya XF-22 RLM Grey, which was ‘scribbled’ randomly with a lightened version of the same colour, significantly diluted and less opaque. The business end of the Fokker comprised arguably some of the finest moulding ever seen on a model. Its forward fuselage was soon covered with more Alclad II Aluminium, cured with a hairdryer.
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surface grip. While the airbrush was loaded, wheels, tyres, tail skid and support tubing, fuselage, delicate horizontal stabilisers, fin, cowl, wings and Garuda propeller were all degreased with methylated spirits, primed and left to cure. The tyres were left in the light grey primer tone, as this was one of the colours used on World War One aero rubber (the others were a pale pink and pale brown...black they were not). The undercarriage rigging points were still accessible, so Bob’s Buckles were again added to the framing and lower fuselage to ease this task later in the build.
Aftermarket Bob’s Buckles 1/72, 1/48, 1/32 www.bobsbuckles.co.uk
Bits and pieces The A-frame that would later be the focus of the top side wing rigging was adapted to accept one of Bob’s Buckles in either side tensioner. Wingnut supplied the part with pre-moulded grooves, which were opened and deepened with extreme care with a needle file and scriber, until the tail of each buckle dropped in neatly. Water-thin CA restored the missing plastic and the shape of the tensioner and gave the necessary strength for the load it was to carry after final assembly. This The undercarriage frames at both ends were doused with the suggested Tamiya acrylic equivalent of ‘Fokker Interior Green’ and the tail skid was base painted in advance of AK Interactive’s Track Wash.
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was a suitable point to form the PE blast plate added later to the cowl, over the point the Spandau muzzle occupied. Alclad II ALC103 Dark Aluminium ensured it would contrast with the cowl. Two styles of machine gun jacket detail were offered; one completely in plastic for the PE-phobic and the other an amalgam of plastic and PE. However, this builder was lured by the potential of Master Model's 1/32 Spandau LMG 08/15 kit (AM32-023), which had two turned brass muzzles, barrels, jackets and sundries, which included nearly
invisible rear sights that required two tiny bends. The muzzle on this after-market kit was not strictly correct for the E.III but was still utilised for its appearance, being synonymous with ‘Spandau’. Assembly was easier than anticipated; Master had machined all parts precisely and the end plates were equipped with lips, which gave positive engagement with both ends of the jacket. The gun was left in two parts (brass jacket and plastic breech), while the rear plastic section was drilled later to accept the rearward-
Gas Patch Models Elite Accessories 1/32 Metal Turnbuckles Type C www.gaspatchmodels.com Griffon Model brass tube 0.5mm GCP-BHP02 www.griffonmodel.com HGW Fokker E.II / E.III seatbelt set 132512 www.hgwmodels.cz HGW WWI instrument bezels 132030 www.hgwmodels.cz Master Spandau LMG08/15 AM-32-023 www.master-models.pl
Weathering was no more complicated than the simple layering of a lightened ‘scribble‘ and the use of AK Interactive’s enamel washes, tied with Tamiya X-19 Smoke.
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With main weathering applied, the parts were left overnight before work resumed the following day. A thorough glossing was the order of the day, in anticipation of the decals.
protruding barrel, and the rectangular foresight was cut from the Wingnut PE and transferred to the Master unit. Both parts were base coated in Tamiya NATO Black XF-69 and brushed with graphite from an HB pencil for a proper gunmetal appearance. The Garuda propeller was undercoated with Tamiya XF-60 Dark Yellow, before AK Interactive’s Track Wash was brushed over and again, ‘stumped’ with a brush damp with white spirit. The darker section of wood was simply a second application of the Track Wash, which had been preceded by a sealing coat of acrylic satin varnish. Tamiya X-24 Clear Yellow and X-26 Clear Orange were followed by further varnish, before the metal hub plate was hand-painted with Xtracolor Oily Steel. Thinned Tamiya X-19 Smoke was applied and gave more
The Master Model brass Spandau kit contained enough parts for the replacement of two gun jackets. Its quality of fit and ease of assembly was a welcome surprise for this builder.
definition to the part. Satin varnish then reduced the degree of gloss to a more realistic level.
Great War paint Once the sub-assemblies and sundries were under dry primer, it was time for this builder’s favourite part - finishing and weathering. Adherence to Wingnut’s instructions was observed and Tamiya XF-22 was thinned with anti-bloom cellulose thinner to ensure maximum surface grip. Fuselage, wings and tail were all base coated in the colour and left to ‘gas out’. With the basic Fokker Grey in situ, there were two main objectives with the weathering. The first was focussed on the wings. Page 20 of the instructions carried a photo of what was thought to be 196/16, with wings stowed either side of the fuselage, readied
Much depended on the preparation of the A frame. Wingnut’s slots for cable mounting were enlarged to facilitate inclusion of Bob’s Buckles, which provided secure mounting points.
The enhanced Spandau required no more than an initial coat of Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black and was brushed lightly with HB pencil, ground to a powder on 600grade abrasive paper.
Wingnut provided two options for marking the tail fin, which included a one-piece white background and eisenkreuz decal. Here,though, paint with an overlying eisenkreuz decal was the preferred choice.
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for road transport. The port wing upper surface facing the camera looked decidedly dusty, so this was established as the final weathering feature. The initial disruption of the unsullied base coat was to ‘scribble’ the surface with very thin Tamiya
XF-22, lightened with Tamiya XF-2 flat white. This simple technique involved holding the airbrush within an inch of the surface (or closer), on a fine spray setting, as it was traversed rapidly and randomly over the base paint for
5-10 seconds at a time. The buildup of lightened tones was assessed each time, until the surface was deemed sufficiently disrupted; this was a technique that could have been repeated with other tones, either lighter or darker than XF-22,
Paints Used AK Interactive AK012 Streaking Grime, AK015 Dust Effects, AK083 Track Wash Alclad II Aluminium, ALC103 Dark Aluminium, ALC104 Pale Burnt Metal, ALC109 Polished Brass Gunze H21 Off White, H30 Clear, Mr. Metal Colour Iron 212, Mr. Metal Colour Aluminium 218 A little light weathering with AK Interactive’s Track Wash was all that dressed the undercarriage framing. Rectangular recesses in the underside metal awaited a wooden finish. The addition of Tamiya X-11 Chrome Silver to the forward fuselage was a straightforward pleasure and did, indeed, alter the tone according to the direction of light which fell on it.
Humbrol 16 Brass, 33 Black, 94 Wood Michael Harding’s Artists Oil Colours 121 Raw Umber, 126 Burnt Umber, 128 Lamp Black Revell 83 Leather, 95 Copper Tamiya X-11 Chrome Silver, X-19 Smoke, X-24 Clear Yellow, X-26 Clear Orange, XF-2 Flat White, XF-22 RLM Grey, XF-60 Dark Yellow, XF-64 Red Brown, XF-69 NATO Black, XF-76 Grey Green (IJN), XF-78 Wooden Deck Tan
to achieve differing results). AK Interactive’s Dust Effects 015 was then applied with a size 0 round brush either side of the structural ribs and dabbed randomly, in spots, small lines and patches elsewhere on the top surface of each wing. The Dust Effects dried quickly and these were stumped with a fresh brush dipped in white spirit, more heavily loaded than when the engine had been dealt with. This was repeated two or three times to move the material around and was dried in short order with a hairdryer. The AK Interactive product, combined with the earlier ‘scribble’ gave exactly the dusty discolouration desired, and was sealed protectively with satin clear. The fuselage was also scribbled before AK Interactive’s Streaking Grime 012 was painted in fine, mixed length lines (2-15mm) just under the top edge of the fuselage. Further marks were created by spotting Streaking Grime randomly, and these were concentrated at the front of the airframe where the heaviest staining had been observed in reference photos. These were all stumped with a clean brush dampened with white spirit to leave blurred, but distinct marks. Tamiya X-19 Smoke, well thinned, was loaded into an Infinity 2 in 1 airbrush with a 0.2 tip, and used to establish deeper staining at
Xtracolor X503 Oily Steel, XDFF Matt Varnish, XDSS Satin Varnish
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The tail strut (and its support frame) was as robust and secure as the main undercarriage. Fit of the locating pegs necessitated removal of paint and was a testament to the kit’s precise engineering.
cockpit floor level and at intervals on the sides. More satin clear was used to lock in the weathering and all decal positions were glossed with Gunze H-30 Clear, thinned with anti-bloom cellulose.
Mastering metal The forward metal sections of these aircraft were decorated meticulously with swirling polishing marks, which altered their appearance in different angles of light. Wingnut’s website provided a simple visual guide on how to simulate the finish and this builder simply substituted the recommended Tamiya base aluminium for an Alclad II equivalent, and applied Tamiya X-11 Chrome Silver over the top as directed. The decals were faultless in their application but did grab the surface readily, unless blobs of water were dabbed on the surface ahead of them. The large eisenkreuz, on their white panels, fitted perfectly to the outboard
The number of World War One aircraft released within the last 50 years that contained a teddy bear, could have been counted on the index finger of one hand!
wing rigging points but were especially in need of much water to position them accurately. Direct finger pressure was used to push the crosses over the wing ribs and force out the water and air, and later required just limited amounts of Micro Sol. Bob’s Buckles were fixed with CA into pre-drilled holes and dressed with 0.05mm fishing line, 0.5mm brass tubing and more Type C Gas Patch turnbuckles, before all were coloured with black oil paint. The anemometer, Spandau and blast plate were added last - the machine gun by way of five minute epoxy and the blast plate with Johnson’s Klear, touched to the edge of the prepositioned part, which ‘wicked’ underneath invisibly and provided a satisfying conclusion to a truly ❚ beautiful model.
This was the first occasion that this builder had constructed an aircraft kit in fully-completed sub-assemblies; a capability that was genuinely possible through considered and thoughtful engineering.
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MILITARY BUILD WWI MALE TANK Mk.I
Richard Langford converts Airfix’s Male Tank and affords it table-top gaming format
A
M U D, B LO O D AND BU L L E TS Before assembly of the sponsons, the gun barrels were drilled out with a pin vice. The remaining sponson parts were then built, with care being taken not to get glue on any moving components. While traversing the guns, an unsightly gap was revealed between the sponson itself and the gun housing, this was corrected with a thin sheet of plastic card being glued directly to the sponson, butting up to the gun housing.
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irfix’s Male Tank came neatly packaged with dramatic artwork of the vehicle in action... and a full-colour painting guide on the reverse of the box. Inside there were four runners moulded in light grey styrene, with a set of rubber band-style tracks, a decal sheet with single tank name and easyto-follow instructions. This kit was a re-release and had been available in different guises for quite some time. Upon close inspection one found that the detail was very crisp, with the hundreds of trademark bolts well represented, and items such as track tensioners being rendered thoughtfully. Only the guns were found to have some slight mould seams, which were easily removed. Last to be built was the wheeled carriage and although the springs and support bar were fixed to the tank, the carriage itself was left separate. This was to ease handling of the kit while the bomb-proof cage was fabricated, but this modeller was then in dilemma on whether to use the wheeled carriage at all, as these were found to be unsatisfactory in combat conditions.
The rest of the model was assembled quickly and all parts joined almost exactly. Any gaps were filled with a thin coat of Liquid Poly. At this stage it was decided to replace the kit exhaust as it was more in keeping with a later version tank. Three strips of plastic card folded in half into V shapes formed the new exhaust. These were then inverted and glued in place to represent the Mk.I system more accurately.
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MILITARY BUILD WWI MALE TANK Mk.I 4
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For protection against grenades and small bombs, many Mk.I tanks sported a mesh cage. These were either wooden or metal framed. Deciding on the latter, 1.5mm L-angle styrene strip was used to make two end pieces and their cross bar. Once assembled and held against the tank, it was decided to shorten the cage to 50mm long; due to cross-reference of several black and white photographs and realisation that the initial fabrication would be too long.
Adding L-angle styrene strip gave the cage rigidity. Once happy that the framework sat flat, the three inner A-frames were added from flat 1.5mm styrene strip. Construction was completed with L-angle strips glued to the rear A-frame, and the front A-frame about halfway up to avoiding the front hatch. Once completed the cage was surprisingly sturdy.
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Further research revealed that other subtle changes were required to better represent a Mk.I Male. These involved removal of the top hatch and filling with plastic card, fabrication of a new top hatch of the round variety, which was placed in a more accurate position. Any damage due to cutting and sanding was repaired with Games Workshop Liquid Green Stuff applied with a cocktail stick.
Test-fitting of the cage proved satisfactory so painting commenced with grey primer. The tank was also sprayed grey followed by black pre-shading. A base coat of Tamiya XF-10 was then airbrushed over the entire model, but this was kept light to enable the pre-shading to bleed through.
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MODEL SPEC
Many of the Mk.I tanks sported four-colour camouflage (Solomon). However, with the muddy conditions on the Western Front the practice was discontinued in favour of dark brown. Here the Sponsons have been airbrushed in such a scheme, with Tamiya XF-78 and XF-77 and Vallejo 70984 and 70970. After airbrushing, the lines were tidied with a brush and thinned paint in the appropriate colours.
Chocolate Brown was the official name of the paint used on these vehicles after the camouflage was abandoned. The base coat of Tamiya XF-10 was lightened with Tamiya XF-60 and sprayed carefully onto the centre of the panels to achieve the desired colour. The sponsons would remain camouflaged to represent a tank using units from an older vehicle.
WWI MALE TANK Mk.I By:
Airfix
Stock Code: A01315 Scale:
1/76
Price:
£5.99
Available from: Airfix, www.airfix.com
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MILITARY BUILD WWI MALE TANK Mk.I 10
GREAT WAR TANK Mark IV Owners’ Workshop Manual, by David Fletcher, (Haynes) ISBN: 9780857332424 Hardback, 270mm x 210mm, 168 pages, £21.99 A great source of inspiration for this model came from the Haynes Owners’ Workshop Manual. These books are steadily growing in popularity and many are now available, on various aircraft and vehicles. The books themselves have the appearance of the traditional Haynes Manuals for real civilian cars and motorbikes, but the content is far more than just line drawings showing a complete breakdown of the tank. Each page is lavishly illustrated with original black and white photos, and colour shots, of various museum exhibits (including the interior, photographed from all angles showing all major controls with crew dressed authentically using these instruments). As well as original vehicles, the photographs also include modern reproductions in full running order, used as film props or displays; so one can get a real insight into how these vehicles looked on the battlefield. Detailed history is given throughout and although this featured build is of a Mk.I and not the Mk.IV, they were similar so the book is useful, especially the section on camouflage and markings. The book finishes with a section on retirement and survivors, with five vehicles being chosen, showing their history throughout the war and what led to their preservation. The publication would also be most handy in converting a Mk.I Male to a Mk.IV Male, which this modeller fully intends to do. Highly recommended!
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The emergence of the German A7V, and the fact that the Germans used captured British vehicles, prompted white/red/white recognition stripes. These were applied by airbrush and masking tape. Sealing matt varnish was also airbrushed. With just one decal provided, more were required and were sourced from the spares box. Gloss varnish was applied by brush to areas on which decals would sit. Tank names were popular in World War One and ‘Antique’ was chosen as it matched the first letter of this vehicle’s identification number, A3.
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Not always a modeller’s first choice, ‘rubber band’ tracks can attain effective results. These were sprayed with Tamiya XF-9 and dry-brushed with Citadel Ironbreaker. Varnish then helped seal the paint before the tracks were sewn together. Sewing has the advantage of being more flexible than glue or simply heating and melting the tracks. The stitched section would be fixed to the underside of the model, out of view.
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Four small feet were added to the cage, from 1.5mm L-angle strips to provide anchor points on the tank’s roof. Weathering was then carried out with Lifecolor’s Tensocrom Set 1. Rust 1 was the first wash applied over the grey undercoat, followed by four further applications of Rust 2 via airbrush. Once dry, bright orange paint was then stippled on the framework with an old brush, followed by a final wash of black to harmonise the colours.
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Returning to the sponsons, black lines were applied carefully near the observation slits; the sponsons were then glued in position with Liquid Poly. Weathering was achieved with the ‘dot system’ and oil paints from 502 Abteilung. The colours used for weathering were Basic Earth, Faded Grey and black. With dots applied randomly to the tank’s structure, a flat brush and turpentine were used to give a streaking affect caused by rain and mud. Panel lines then received a pin wash of thinned black oil paint. The mesh for the finished cage was made from Halfords’ car body repair mesh. Fixing the mesh to the framework proved difficult, but was finally achieved by having two separate panels, one for each side and sewing the mesh to the frame at regular intervals. Before sewing, the mesh was sprayed black, followed by a dry-brush of silver. Touching-up was necessary once the mesh was in position, as the paint was easily removed during handling.
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A 4b pencil was gently rubbed along any sharp angles on the body, and where the tracks would catch the superstructure, as well as the raised tread of the tracks where there was no mud. Gloss varnish was daubed on some of the mud, in particular on the tracks and lower regions of the tank, to give the effect of both new wet and semi-dried mud. The exhaust on the top of the tank received the same treatment as the cage, apart from two washes of Lifecolor White Oxide.
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MILITARY BUILD WWI MALE TANK Mk.I
With this model being destined for the gaming table, a base was required. This was cut from plastic card with layers of foam board glued to the base at one end, to build a slight incline. This would enable the tank to be posed more dramatically rather than just flat. It was at this stage that the wheeled carriage was discarded, so that the tank was more in keeping with a later service machine.
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Gloss varnish represented puddles on the base; this was followed by dry-brushed Light Earth. Two holes for stakes were drilled and the stakes themselves were made with spare etched brass, but thin paper clips would serve just as well. Once glued in position, lead wire wound around a large pencil was then glued to the stakes and teased out to look like barbed wire. Any areas missed by the plaster mix were touched-up with dark brown paint.
Tanks on the western Front served in very harsh conditions and soon became covered in mud. To represent this, a muudy mix was put together, which consisted of plaster, white glue, black paint, brown paint and Dark Earth weathering pigments. Once mixed, this was then troweled onto the base, over the tracks and areas of the vehicle’s bodywork. A darker-than-required mix was produced as once dry it tends to lighten.
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Great for gaming… or not! Research into this project was enjoyable as there was a surprising number of photographs available of these tanks on the internet. Wanting this example to stand out from the norm, the bomb mesh cage certainly gave the tank a different look. Inspiration for the paintwork came from an actual photograph and enabled this vehicle to take on a different appearance, with the older Solomon scheme applied to the sponsons and the later brown over the rest of the tank. Recognition markings were also a must, as they were aesthetically pleasing and would ensure that the tank, despite its brown base and overall colour, would still stand out. ❚
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REFERENCE ROUND-UP WWI MALE TANK Mk.I
A famous shot showing a line up of Mk. I tanks, apparently in Chimpanzee Valley prior to the tanks first outing at Flers.
Male Mk. II tank number 799 left shattered on the battlefield after the fighting. (All Courtesy Richard Pullen)
B A T T LEFIE LD BEASTS The famous tank D7 Dinnaken becomes an attraction after being ditched during the Battle of Flers.
A Mk. I seen on the battlefield after the war, note the toothed front sprockets, seen only on the Mk. I.
Ian Young, editor of Military Machines International, provides some photographic reference for the WWI Male Tank
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FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914 he 2nd Battalion The Suffolk Regiment was part of the British Expeditionary Force (BEF), which found itself in retreat with French and Belgian armies from the Battle of Mons in late August 1914…with the German army in hot pursuit. On the August 25 the Suffolks bivouacked just west of Le Cateau, but in the morning they moved to high ground where they came under heavy shell, machine gun and rifle fire from advancing Germans. While trying to dig in on exposed ground, the battalion took heavy casualties and lost its commander, Lt. Col C.A.H Brett, at the outset. The Suffolks held this defensive rear-guard for more than eight hours, despite
A selection of general hobby tools used in basic alteration work; files, pin vice, fine drills, hobby knife and the all-important razor saw.
The figure came in a highly workable resin, which was detailed superbly.
The bayonet was repositioned after hollowing out the rear of the haversack.
Here’s the new position of the bayonet prior to in-filling with epoxy putty.
Pete Watson explains how to convert, paint and base one of a superb range of 54mm Great War figures relentless shelling and gunfire. Outnumbered and outgunned, they sold their positions dearly, and inflicted enormous casualties with accurate rifle and artillery fire on the surrounding enemy. Even though the Germans entreated the Suffolks to surrender (and even blew the British cease fire order on their bugles) they refused and carried on fighting until they were overran, which brought their resistance to an end. This, and many gallant ‘last stands’ by the regiment and pockets of other troops, brought precious time to allow the rest of the BEF to retreat unmolested to reorganise. Although some British survivors managed to escape, those who remained alive where taken prisoner; the men from the Suffolks (The Old Dozen) mustered for a roll call at nearby
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FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914
The rifle and bayonet were also well-detailed items, but the latter was removed and set aside until later, to avoid breakage.
The right arm is seen being re-cut and shaped to fit the torso.
By removing the right hand with a razor saw, very little material was lost from the part due to the fine cut.
With use of a pin vice and fine engineer’s drills, the hand and arm sleeve were drilled to accept pinning.
St Quentin, and just two officers and 111 other ranks were left from the original 1,000-strong battalion. The battle at Le Cateau was later recognised as a key factor which prevented the German Army from over-running and occupying Paris.
regardless. The rifle was slightly bent, which is common place on small, thin resin parts, but a minute’s submersion in hot water and the rifle could then be straightened and held while it cooled.
The figure Cast in grey-green resin that was easy to work with, the detail on this release was excellent, especially in and around the ammunition pouches; the Enfield rifle was exceptionally well detailed. Most resin figures in this scale must be removed from casting blocks. This example was no exception, with a casting blocks attached to the feet. Care was taken during removal to avoid snapping the legs or boots. The rifle, with its integrally-cast bayonet, needed to be handled carefully to avoid breakage although this happened
Character change Seasoned figure modellers will see the potential these figures present, either as stand- alone subjects or as pieces within a vignette or larger diorama. To employ figures properly in either of these scenarios, though, would most certainly require the original poses/positions to be changed. Conversion could mean as little as moving an arm, exchanging a head or equipment, straightening a leg. Basic alterations can be done quite simply and effectively, with basic tools such as needle files, hobby knives and, most importantly, a razor saw.
The right arm was trial-fitted with torso, being held in place with Blu-Tack.
Paper clip wire was inserted into the lower for added strength.
The left arm was also test-fitted in place to ensure the hand gained purchase on the ammunition pouches.
An overall ‘mock up’ of the final pose prior to solidifying of the joints. The head has been cut and set in a new position.
The idea for this basic alteration was to reposition the rifle (minus the bayonet) into the figure’s right hand, adjust the head slightly and move the left hand and arms into a suitable pose to balance the figure.
Reach for the putty The bayonet was paired off the rifle carefully with a modelling knife and the parts cleaned up, and then the rifle was set aside for later while the bayonet handle position was hollowed out of the haversack. Once finished the area was solidified with Milliput epoxy putty, applied with a sable brush. The right arm position on the torso could then be sorted and the arm filed to accept its new position. Constant viewing was required before its final position was set. The left arm was tried in the same way and once pinned with paper clip wire it was glued
MODEL SPEC
Feet were drilled and pinned with soft copper wire for positioning on the base.
A razor saw was also let loose on the left arm to help create a new position.
SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914, LE CATEAU By:
Tommy’s War
Stock Code: TW 54006 Scale:
54mm
Price:
£11.50
Available from: www.tommyswar.com
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FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914
A new thumb was created from epoxy putty and shaped with toothpicks and sable paint brushes. After the rifle-bearing hand was pinned, the whole hand/rifle assembly was undercoated with two thin layers of matt white. The hand received shadow colours by way of Burnt Umber and Burnt Sienna oil paint.
These front and rear views show solid joints, with reworked creases and folds in the clothing. Final detail parts were added, such as the rifle sling, patches, lapels and buttons, all fashioned from Duro (Green Stuff) putty. Highlights were applied to the hand to bring it almost to completion. The completed rifle hand, gripping the stock and sling. The gunmetal portions lay in waiting for black/silver mix highlights.
with cyanoacrylate (CA) in its final position, prior to being attached to the torso. The cut-off right hand was glued to the rifle and the missing thumb reinstated, once again with Milliput. Before final consolidation of joints, the new positions were temporarily fixed with Blu-Tack and a mock-up was made and checked for any ugly mistakes or unnatural arm positioning. Epoxy putty was used to solidify the joints and any folds/creases were rebuilt into the clothing. A heat
box was used after each joint was finished, to speed up the drying process. Additional detail on the rifle, sling, rank stripes, buttons and lapels were made from Duro (Green Stuff) putty.
Ready for paint Due to the alteration work the figure was cleaned in a dishwashing solution to free it from oily areas. Two thinned coats of Humrol 34 Matt White were brushpainted, each being allowed to dry thoroughly. The rifle received the
same colour, although it was kept off the figure to ease painting in the pouch and webbing areas, also it minimizes the chance of damaging such a fragile part. Face and hands were given a thin mixed base coat which comprised Humbrol 61 Flesh, 62 Leather and 34 White, for a weathered/tanned skin colour. Once dry, a mix of Titanium White, Burnt Sienna Yellow Ochre and Cadmium Red were used to create the base coat of flesh. This mix was thinned
with white spirit and brushed evenly over the undercoat, then, using a clean brush, the oil was then lightly brushed off to leave a thin layer of paint on which to shade and highlight. To shade, Burnt Umber was used, outlining the face, under the peak of the cap and feathered into the main areas, while lighter shadows were added with Burnt Umber and Burnt Sienna. Together this tinted the base coat and brought a ‘muddy’ look to the
The full figure was primed and then undercoated with three thin layers of Humbrol 34 Matt White.
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The detail on the figure was excellent and very small items such as buckles and badges were reproduced beautifully. When painting these, the mixes had to be judged so as not to flow all over the surrounding areas. To help with this, top-quality brushes were needed and the Winsor & Newton Series 7 miniatures range was hard to beat. When painting of such fine detail is required, 00 and 000 sizes are specifically recommended.
flesh tones. Highlights comprised the base coat mediums plus white, then a final highlight of Naples Yellow was brushed sparingly onto the main ‘top’ areas. The same mixes were used on the hands, but with the addition of Raw Umber into the inner sides to ensure a grubby tone on the skin colour. Eyes were painted off-white, blended from Titanium White and Raw Umber, and then blue and black oils were used for the Iris and pupils respectively, via the end of a needle. Pure White created catch lights on the pupils and iris.
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Flesh base coats were applied to the face and hands, followed by initial light shading.
Second shadows and first highlights were duly applied with a quality Winsor & Newton brush.
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Main dark shadows were brushed in, and the hair line was completed along with the mouth area.
At this stage, all flesh areas were completed, as was the Khaki cap.
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Battledress shades The colour khaki can vary from light grey hues through to greenbrowns. There are numerous ways of creating the colour with each mix to make a different hue. The Suffolks would have had quality uniforms with consistent colouring; it was only as the war escalated that uniform colours changed due to more contractors being involved in manufacture. With this in mind it, was decided to use the same basic mix for all the model’s khaki areas, and then slightly alter it for individual items such as the cap, webbing, uniform jacket and trousers. For the cap, Humbrol 26 Khaki was mixed with matt black for a base coat; more black was added for shading, with highlights having matt white added to the main base coat. A small amount of Yellow Ochre oil paint was used to distress areas around the edges of the cap and on the brim of the peak. A touch of Buff Titanium was added to the base coat for the cap band, to alter the hue just slightly for added realism. To complete
27 The overall khaki undercoat consisted of a Humbrol 26 Khaki and 33 Matt Black mix.
The webbing and equipment neared completion in terms of shadows.
A base coat and first set of shadow colours were brushed onto the uniform jacket.
Front view of completed jacket with faded areas on the cuffs and edges of the collar.
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FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914 33
30 This image shows the base masked and working areas cut to shape.
34
31 The working area was scored to help the glue adhere to the laquered surface.
Fence shape erected and in position... the more rustic looking the better.
The fence was completed from the initial sketch, transferred from 1D to 3D. CelluClay papier-mâché medium was mixed with a liberal amount of PVA and water, and was spread over the base with a spatula.
Some basic craft tools used along with wood veneers making the fence sections.
Celluclay was worked into position by way of a cheap brush, and extra stones and gravel were added while the CelluClay was still wet.
35
37 36
32 the badge, a Humbrol 154 Yellow basecoat was applied, followed by printer’s ink which was overbrushed with a brass-coloured mix of gold, copper and Cadmium Yellow oil paint.
Personal equipment The colour mix for these items comprised Humbrol 154 Yellow, 110 Natural Wood and 34 White. This allowed for the addition of Raw Umber oil paint to be added, to help change the hue on different parts of the equipment. Sepia and Lamp Black oil paint was used exclusively on shadow areas, while highlights consisted of the base colour plus Naples Yellow, followed by Naples Yellow on its own. These were used sparingly to try to achieve ‘worn out’ colour rather than to depict objects bathed in natural highlight.
oil paint. For the trousers, Raw Umber was layered straight onto the base coat, instead of being mixed with the base colour. This ensured a dirty, grubby effect on the material, which would have been consistent with the rough terrain on which the solider would have fought. In terms of highlights (areas of worn material) Naples Yellow was used on the jacket and Buff Titanium on the trousers. The puttees received the same base coat, Humbrol 26 Khaki, but Sepia replaced the Black oil paint…again this gave
slight variation in the khaki tones on the overall figure. Highlights on the puttees comprised Buff Titanium oil paint and Humbrol 72 Khaki Drill.
The three Bs Buckles, badges and buttons were mostly coloured in a brass shade, rendered with printer’s inks. A basecoat of Humbrol 154 Yellow was used and, once dry, Old Gold printer’s ink mixed with Humbrol Matt Varnish was applied to all items. These were then highlighted subtly with another mix
of Bright Gold ink with Humbrol Satin Varnish.
Firepower The Enfield .303 received an undercoat of Humbrol 62 Leather, followed by a base coat of Humbrol 60 Scarlet. Highlights comprised 62 and matt black mixed to achieve a dark redbrown. This was then shaded with Burnt Umber. Thin black streaks were painted on wooden areas to depict dark grain. For the gunmetal, matt black and silver were mixed to a 50/50 ratio and applied in a subtle manner over a matt black undercoat.
Uniform For easy replication of the uniform mix, the khaki colour was Humbrol 26 Khaki plus Lamp Black oil paint for the jacket, while the trousers received the same but with more Lamp Black added. For shading, Raw Umber was applied to the base of the jacket, with any deep folds or creases having a touch of Lamp Black
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FIGURE BUILD SGT 2ND BATTALION THE SUFFOLK REGT, 1914 38
There are many useful grass tufts avalible commercially in various colours, scales and sizes etc.
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A close up of the finished area prior to any colouring being added. The fence posts have had oil washes to stain them. Grasses were added to the area with additional static grass coverage (used by mixing colours together).
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Build the groundwork In some contemporary reports which describe the action at Le Cateaux, the terrain in which the soldiers tried to ‘dig in’ was reported to be rough, hard and stony…with nothing more than small, rickety fences to hide behind. The groundwork was designed with these descriptions in mind, and several rough sketches were made and a suitable base selected on which to build the groundwork. After masking most of the non-used area, the top was scored to help accept the PVA glue used to fix the carved foam. Wood veneers were scaled down to act as fence posts and railings; these were thinned and snapped carefully at certain points, with the snapped ends being used to depict rough end grains of broken sections. Several were pushed into the ground away from the fence to create realism in a barren area. A papier-mâché medium called CelluClay (www. activaproducts.com) was then mixed with water and lots of PVA - the latter helped to hasten the drying process and sealed the CelluClay ready to take any paint required. While wet, though, stones and gravel were added. Once dry, grass tufts of various colours (mainly late summer and
dead grass shades) were glued around the stones and gravel. Static grasses were used to fill selected larger areas. Fencing was given washes of oil paint to depict a grey-brown hue, to imitate old wood affected by the elements for many years. Sepia was used for dark shades with subtle highlights from Naples Yellow. The ground itself also got the wash treatment, with Sepia, Lamp Black and Burnt Umber, along with Naples Yellow and Yellow Ochre being used as highlights – mainly on the ends of the grass tufts and edges of the stones. Once finished, the base was drilled to accept the wire from the figure’s foot and five-minute epoxy glue was used to attach the model. A few extra tuffs of grass were added to ‘bed in’ the boot, with oil paint highlights here and there to finish.
Final groundwork with colour washes applied; this was done using Sepia, Burnt Umber and Lamp Black oil paints for shadows around the base work. Naples Yellow and Yellow Ochre were used as highlights on stones and grass tops.
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Pure class Tommy’s War is a comparatively new entity in the world of figure modelling. It was established in 2011 and now has 15 fabulous figures, a motorcycle and trench section in its ever-growing range. The figures are excellent in terms of detail and casting, and for modellers interested in all things World War One, they are highly ❚ recommended. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
Nocturnal Nightmare Jan Maes has his hands full with Wingnut Wings’ gargantuan 1/32 Gotha G.IV
G
Interior parts received Burnt Sienna oil paint over a Tamiya Deck Tan base coat, for a realistic wood-effect finish.
Instrument bezels have been picked out in Aluminium, while all instruments were represented by decals, finished off with a drop of Klear for the glass.
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otha’s G.IV (Grossflugzeug type 4) came from an on-going family of bombers constructed by Gothaer Waggonfabrik. The G.IV’s fuselage comprised a ‘gun tunnel’ for self-defence, while the wing was built in the then traditional manner, from wooden spars and ribs covered by linen. A total of 52 machines was supported by orders for 100 more, to be built by other manufacturers. The design features of the G.IV made it highly suited to replace the bloated (in performance and cost) Zeppelin, as the weapon to wage war directly over the UK mainland. G.IVs, each with what was then considered a hefty bomb load, flew from occupied Belgium. Early missions were flown during the day but antiaircraft fire and RAF fighters prompted a switch to nocturnal bombing. Gothas executed 22 raids on England and dropped a staggering 186,819lb (84,740kg) of bombs…but 61 aircraft were
lost in the process, although not all to actual combat.
First impressions Wingnut Wings’ kit came in a large box, full to the brim with more than 450 parts spread over 18 runners, with a photo-etched (PE) metal sheet of more than 20 parts. All this was crowned
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV cable runs. Colour references were given for Tamiya, Humbrol and Mister Kit paints.
Funky fuselage
MODEL SPEC
by two decal sheets sharply printed by Cartograf. The instructions lived up to their expectations, as they were a mixture of very clear computer-generated diagrams, augmented with plenty of reference material in the form of period photographs. Five different machines could be built from the kit but it was important to choose early on, as one option (the LVG-built machine) required changes to the fuselage external GOTHA G.IV By:
Wingnut Wings
Stock Code: 32005 Scale:
1/32
Price:
US $149.00
Available from: Wingnut Wings, www.wingnutwings.com
The cockpit and rear fuselage interior detail was outstanding and everything required to equip these areas was included in the kit – a good thing as most of the interior remained visible after the model’s completion. Since most of the fuselage was made of plywood, construction started by base-coating all wooden parts with Tamiya XF-55 Deck Tan, and masking all mating surfaces to receive glue; Wingnut’s kits have very fine tolerances so masking would ensure a better fit. The wood effect was achieved by applying Winsor & Newton (W&N) Burnt Sienna oil paint via a sponge in an irregular fashion, to smear the paint over the base coat – aided by the oil paint’s slow drying time. As everything had to be dry thoroughly before continuation, the parts were set aside in the airing cupboard for a week to allow the oil paint to cure fully. Next were the racks which held eight 27lb (12.5kg) bombs. The racks were painted satin black, with the raised detail being highlighted with dry-brushed W&N Soft Mixing White. The bombs themselves were painted Mister Kit GC-22 Gotha Daylight Bomber Blue, finished with a thin W&N Paynes Grey oil wash. Attention then turned to the
Bomb racks were duly assembled and attached to the fuselage side frames, ready to be enclosed in the fuselage.
Ammunition drums seen through the various stages of painting; the kit provided 15 of these to store internally.
Here, the fuselage floor and main bulkheads have been assembled and the various types of ordnance installed.
Seat belts were provided as PE parts, which required careful painting as they would remain in full view once the fuselage was closed.
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
Eventually, it was time for the fuselage halves to enclose the cockpit and internal bomb and ammunition racks.
instrument panel which was brought to life by carefully picking out the instrument bezels with matt aluminium. Instruments were represented by decals which settled down well with Micro Set and Sol fluids. All instruments then received a drop of Johnson’s Klear to represent glass. Several spare ammunition drums for the machine guns were provided and, following a base coat of XF-69 NATO Black, their rounds were painted brass. As the whole fuselage interior would remain visible, it was necessary to replicate tensioning wires which ran between the fuselage struts. EZLine elastic wire was the material of choice for this,
with a drop of Vallejo Brass paint at each end to replicate turn buckles. After a dip in Johnson’s Klear, all fuselage windows were attached and masked so that the fuselage could be closed – a process potentially fraught with difficulty because of the number of parts to align. However, everything fitted without trouble …a testament to Wingnut’s classy engineering.
Powerplants Both Daimler-Mercedes engines were little kits in their own right, with finely-moulded parts that built easily. However, as the covers of one of the nacelles were going to be left off, additional detail was required. The original main manifold was often lagged with asbestos but this was not represented in the kit, so 1.5mm masking
Cockpit instruments remained in full view once the model was completed so it was certainly worth spending time here.
The only area that required a little work was the fuselage seam on the nose, but this was nothing that a little filler and a few swipes of a sanding stick couldn’t handle.
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
This Gotha’s engines were little kits in their own right, with excellent fit. They cried out for a good paint job and were a prime basis for extra detailing.
All the engine parts received their base coat, while additional detail was added to the manifold and ignition wiring.
tape (www.little-cars.com) was wound around the part and it was then covered with Gunze Mr. Surfacer 1000 to blend the edges. Once dry it was painted black and dry-brushed lightly to mute the colour and provide realistic texture. The other area which called for improvement was that of the ignition wires and these were created from pieces of painted copper wire, glued between the distributor cap and the actual plugs – the latter were made from small pieces of Albion Alloys’ brass tubing,
The engine nacelle assembly was key to the geometry of the aircraft. Follow Wingnut’s instructions to the letter to avoid trouble later!
The first engine was completed and ready to be installed in the nacelle. Alclad lacquers and thin oil washes created a highly realistic appearance. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
Once installed, the engine looked superb. Subtle weathering was applied to the internal framing and fuel tank and nickel wire formed the bracing wires.
Fuselage windows were installed and the whole assembly had already been masked in readiness for the base coat.
The Mister Kit paints went on beautifully and dried to a pleasing semi-gloss finish, which required no further treatment before decaling. World War One aircraft aren’t anything if not colourful! The Cartograf decals worked a treat and settled down without a hint of silvering.
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painted white with brass caps for a realistic representation of the plugs. The engines were painted various shades of Alclad II lacquer to create tonal variation and finished with W&N Sepia and Paynes Grey oil washes. Exhausts remained and these exhibited a convincing texture out of the box, and only required painting in a metallic colour (Mr. Metalizer Iron) and treatment with various shades of rust from the MIG pigments range. The next steps were arguably the most complex of the whole project, as the rest of the aircraft was built around the engine nacelles and it was absolutely essential to ensure the correct geometry. The instructions allocated 15 steps to this section and, while at first it looked daunting with many parts requiring 90 degree angles to be set, Wingnut’s superb engineering showed again and
everything fitted perfectly. However, a word of warning; do stick to the sequence in the instructions! There is some conjecture about the colours of the engine framing and Wingnut offered various options, but in the end a shade not far from RLM 02 was chosen for the metal parts, while the engine bearers (being wood) were given the same treatment as the fuselage interior. The addition of Albion Alloys’ nickel wire finished the nacelles, which only then required weathering inside, which was kept light.
A whole lot of paint! Now came the time to paint the various parts before the next stage of assembly, and Wingnut offered various colour schemes. By far the most interesting was that of aircraft 991/16 ‘Morotas’, named after its crew, Lt Mons,
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV The top wing support struts have been added to the nacelles. Take care here as the former’s geometry depends on correct assembly.
Lt Roland and Herman Tasche. As usual with World War One aircraft, there is speculation about exact colours and markings. Wingnut provides a recommendation (and rationale) but leaves the builder to choose. Mister Kit has developed a set of paints especially for this aircraft and the safe (easy?) option was to go with its recommendation, and so they were duly ordered from Italy via the company’s website. Since completing this kit, Albion Alloys has taken on distribution of these paints so they should be easier to obtain.
Painting started with a primer coat of Vallejo Acrylic Grey and the aircraft then received a coat of Mister Kit LVG Gotha Blue, diluted with water. MK’s paint sprayed beautifully and dried to a satin finish. The aircraft parts were then masked and LVG Gotha Mauve was airbrushed in two thin coats. All major parts had then been painted and looked pristine, ready for the next step. The satin finish required no further treatment and the decals adhered without a hint of trouble – just take your time as there are quite a few! Now was the time
Engines were mated to the fuselage. Wingnut’s engineering ensured a positive fit to guarantee the proper wing geometry.
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
The wing surfaces had excellent moulded detail, which was still obvious from under a base coat of Gotha Blue and Purple.
The first stage of weathering highlighted the rib tapes. Contrast has been exaggerated, but would be toned down after the application of oil paints which also muted the surface.
Main wing struts were installed and, together with the struts on the engine nacelles, they provided positive attachment points for the upper wing.
Control cables were replicated by EZLine, as this material was more forgiving while the model was being handled.
to apply weathering and the first step was to mask the rib tapes… all 210 of them! The wings then received a lowlight of diluted Tamiya X-19 Smoke around the ribs. Finally, wing and fuselage surfaces were toned down by the application of oil paints; W&N Naples Yellow Hue and Raw Sienna were worked into the
to tackle the task which scares away many modellers with regard to biplanes…rigging. This Gotha was more complicated than most other biplanes, with four bays per wing, 24 struts and around 50 landing and
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base coat to provide tonal variety and a somewhat bleached look.
Assembly and rigging The engine nacelles were mated to the fuselage and the bottom wings attached, and with the tail planes and fin attached without trouble, a very large aircraft sat on the bench. It was then time
flying wires and associated turnbuckles. However, Wingnut’s brilliance came to the
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
fore and assembly went smoothly – just follow the instructions to the letter. There are commercial products available for turnbuckles, but with more than 80 attachment points the cost would be prohibitive so another route was chosen. Albion Alloys’ brass tubing was cut into lengths of 1.5 and 3mm and threaded on pieces of monofilament fishing line. These ‘necklaces’ were then primed in black and airbrushed with Mr. Metalizer Iron for a dark metallic shade. The next stage was the installation of the cross braces between the wing struts and black EZLine was used for this, as it was easy to apply. On the other hand, landing and flying wires were made from single pieces of monofilament threaded from wing root to tip, and thus provided additional support to the huge wing – a process much The tail surfaces have been treated in the same way as the wings and the bracing struts ensured accurate geometry.
easier to do than to describe – as long as the appropriate turnbuckles were inserted before the wire was pulled taut.
The final stretch Wingnut provided cooling jackets for the machine guns as pieces of etched brass, which needed to be rolled around a rod of suitable diameter. The process has always caused trouble for this modeller, so they were replaced with photo-etched brass barrels from Master Model. All they needed was a coat of black, followed by dry-brushing with silver to Albion Alloys came to the rescue as approximately 80 turnbuckles needed to be made, painted and installed in the various sections of the model.
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV create a pleasing metallic finish. The propellers were next and Burnt Umber oil was painted over a Tamiya XF-55 Deck Tan base coat with a stiff flat brush to create a wooden finish – ten minutes to execute and a week to wait for the paint to dry… Wingnut supplied a large set of ordnance because the aircraft carried various configurations, and so a decent selection of bombs was assembled, painted and attached to the external racks. This left the final stage of assembly, the undercarriage, and this was the only area where a
EZline was installed in tiny holes drilled in the back of the wing struts and attached with a drop of Superglue cyanoacrylate.
One-piece flying and landing wires were installed and provided additional support for the huge wing.
The one area in which the kit parts were shunned; while the machine guns and jackets provided in the kit were more than adequate, Master Model’s parts were brilliant.
Ammunition drums were added to the gun and the whole assembly was painted and dry-brushed for a pleasing metallic finish.
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ADVANCED BUILD GOTHA G.IV
Propellers were base coated and layered with oil paints to ensure a realistic wooden appearance.
little angst crept in. There were prominent ejector pin marks on the wheel spats, in a visible position, and the delicate struts made removal tricky. A little patience, though, paid dividends and after nickel wire was attached between the struts the model could be turned over and set on its wheels for the first time.
Once the oils had dried, the propeller boss was painted a steel shade and dry-brushed to pick out bolt detail, followed by a gentle oil wash to create depth. Nickel wire attached between the undercarriage struts provided additional strength to the assembly…this was a heavy model!
Brilliant behemoth Where to begin? The resulting model is huge and it does look the part: it is accurate in outline, stunningly-detailed and not as difficult to build as one might think thanks to Wingnut Wings’ excellent instructions and exceptional tooling. It is not cheap, granted, but will provide countless hours of modelling pleasure and can be built into a real show-stopper. Perhaps not for the beginner or as a first biplane, but any modeller with moderate experience is going to ❚ enjoy this kit. It’s a beauty. Propellers were finally attached to the engine nacelles. Photo-etched brass prop’ guards have also been painted and positioned. The ordnance of choice received paint and weathering before they were attached to the bomb racks. Note the twisted fins, which made the bombs spin to arm them as they fell.
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{47} 10/09/2013 11:07
OUT AND ABOUT DUXFORD AIRSHOW 2013
Norwegian Delights at Duxford
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t was clear that Duxford’s annual airshow was going to be something different! Along with the usual Spitfires and Hurricanes, the Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron was out in force and what a welcome sight, with types long absent from British skies. Unfortunately for those attending on the Saturday, aircrew illness prevented the
Patrouille de France, and Golden Apple Operations Ltd North American F-86 Sabre from flying. Get well soon Cliff Spink; that F-86 Sabre is my favourite! With last-minute adjustments
The Royal Netherlands Air Force Historic Flight B-25J certainly showed it's no slouch, with a display worthy of any single-seat fighter. (All Key - Glenn Sands)
The star item for many enthusiasts was the Norwegian Historical Squadron's CT-133 Silver Star. A former RCAF trainer, it is the sole airworthy example in Europe.
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the flying display proved to be well up-to-standard with a great mix of modern fast jets, pistonengined fighters, Cold War classics and even a recently delivered Jumbo Jet freighter from British Airways World Cargo!...where else would you one see such a diverse range? The weather proved to be trying for pilots and the crowd, with a strong crosswind and the odd shower during the afternoon’s flying display. With this airshow being focussed on all aspects of aviation, the crowd was mesmerised by the Boeing 747-8F freighter entering the circuit. Eagle-eyed observers were able to see the ‘Jumbo’ leave Stansted airport’s airspace while it awaited its show slot. The sight of this near 200-ton behemoth flying over the American Air Museum’s roof certainly made an impression, judging by the whirr of camera motor-drives that could be heard over the RollsRoyce engines! But if it was one aspect that made the trip worth it for
enthusiasts, it was arguably the attendance of the Royal Norwegian Air Force Historical Squadron. A remarkable collection of aircraft for which the star, for me, had to be the Canadair CT-133 Silver Star – a type that I hadn’t seen in the air since the IATs at Greenham Common many years ago. Duxford’s penultimate airshow for the year proved once again to be a great day out; while it was a shame that some highlights of the flying display had to be withdrawn, it did allow time for one to inspect the restoration progress of the Boeing B-17 and to hear the guest speaker, former SR-71 pilot Colonel Richard Graham, provide a fascinating walk-around tour of the Blackbird and recall what is was like to fly this Mach 3.3 beast on spy flights around the world. This was a remarkable day, which spanned every aspect of aviation for the visitor. ❚ Glenn Sands
A welcome change from the familiar RAF colours was Spitfire Mk.IX (MK732) 'Polly Grey' of the Royal Netherlands Air Force Historic Flight.
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10/09/2013 12:25
Flown by Lieutenants Armstrong and Mort of IX Squadron, on June 9, 1918, their R.E.8 D4689 'P' comes under attack while on an artillery spotting mission during. The squadron was to suffer 57 casualties on such sorties as well as contact patrols and short range bombing operations in response to the German Spring Offensive in early 1918.
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10/09/2013 11:11
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8
GOOD OLD ‘HARRY TATE’ By relatively simple means, Peter Fearis updates Airfix’s long-in-the-tooth R.E.8 biplane
A
irfix first released its model of the R.E.8 way back in the late 1950s and, surprisingly, it is still the only mainstream 1/72 kit of this important aircraft. Developed from the B.E.2, the Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8
served not just with the Royal Flying Corps, but also with the Belgian Air Force for a number of years, and proved to be capable and adaptable. Used with great effect as an artillery observation platform, the type was also utilised in the day and night bombing role.
Although ungainly and limited in manoeuvrability, the R.E.8 could defend itself and was an extremely hardy aircraft. By the end of its production more than 4,000 examples had been manufactured, providing testimony to the type’s ruggedness and versatility.
Blast from the past One could immediately see the task ahead, necessary to catapult the project to modern day standards. To be fair, for a kit of more than 50 years of age it had some redeeming features, and could be approached in one of
1 All the heavy representation of the wing ribs was removed prior to construction, and the strut attachment points were filled. Once this was done, work commenced on correcting the length and profile of the wings. The main components on the runner…close inspection showed the enormity of the task that lay ahead to update this ageing kit.
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8 2
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With the ribs removed the wing was compared with plans in the Windsock Datafile book and areas in need of attention were marked out. Excess was trimmed with a fresh scalpel blade before the wing was sanded to shape. The marked areas at the centre were removed with a fine razor saw, with care exercised to ensure the cuts were vertical.
Once the wings were re-profiled and thinned, Humbrol Grey Primer was applied before positions of the new wing ribs were marked.
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More work than envisaged needed to be carried out on the lower wing; apart from the tip profile and prominent ribs, two vital cut-outs near the centre section had been missed totally. The comparison shows just how much work was required, but it was, in reality, quite easy.
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Onto the fuselage! Airfix did actually make a reasonable job of the fuselage, the main error being its length. To correct this, a section needed to be removed between the pilot’s bay and the gunner/ observer’s station. Once this area was removed, the two sections could be mated and the join made good.
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MODEL SPEC
three directions. The first would be to build as is…fine if the aim is to simply add the R.E.8 to one’s collection, and the finished model ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8 By:
Airfix
Stock Code: A01076 Scale:
1/72
Price:
£5.99
Available from: Airfix, www.airfix.com
will resemble the type. Secondly, and this was the approach taken here, was to correct the few errors which needed to be addressed and detail the model to bring it up to date. The third route would entail super-detailing for those who wish to go the whole hog, including scratch-building a new engine and set of wings. While studying the parts on the runner, it was clear to see this was not going to be a conventional build which followed the usual chain of assembly. Wing ribbing was excessive, there was no interior detail and other areas were completely unrefined. On checking with plans in the excellent Windsock Datafile on the Re.8, it was also evident
Once the fuselage sections had been given time to bond, the sparse interior detail was removed in preparation for scratch-built embellishment. Sheet styrene and rod are vital for the detailer and adding just a few basics features lifted the appearance no end. Although by no means complete in terms of detail, anything was better than an empty space. After studying reference photos from the Datafile, scrap plastic card and rod were employed to fashion a purposeful interior.
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8 8
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The interior was painted with Tamiya XF-55 Deck Tan to simulate canvas. Then, framework and panels to represent woodwork received Tamiya XF-60 Dark Yellow. A stippling brush was used to apply Tamiya X-26 Clear Orange over the dark yellow to simulate wood grain, while cockpit details such as the ammunition drums and control column were highlighted with matt black. With the interior detailed and the fuselage halves joined, the prominent details moulded onto the surface were sanded lightly for better effect. Next was to add exterior details such as the gun mount and stitching, by way of styrene strip and rod.
The fuselage-mounted Vickers machine gun was a resin item from Aeroclub, and was a vast improvement over the kit weapon. The fin, once re-profiled (along with the tail planes), were attached. Pilot’s cockpit and observer’s openings were sealed with damp tissue paper before the model was primed.
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9 that there were dimensional discrepancies to the wings and fuselage. Prior to actually mating the components, the wings and fuselage received plenty of attention! The first task was to remove the rib detail on the wings before correction of the length and tip profiles. A new set of
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wing ribs was added, via two no.11 scalpel blades glued together with cyanoacrylate, and a steel rule. The fuselage was the next area to be tackled prior to assembly, as it was devoid of detail and 5mm to long. Once the dimensional inaccuracies were resolved the build commenced in the
traditional sequence, with a fairly convincing scratch-built interior.
Value option Was the work involved worth it? Yes. Apart the expensive 1/72 resin kit of the R.E.8, by Choroszy Modelbud, the modeller has little choice if this classic is to be added
to one’s collection. Some may be happy to build from the box, while others will want to take the superdetailing route. This middle path, though, gives the vast majority of modellers what they want…an acceptable R.E.8. Give it a bash and surprise yourself with what can be achieved!
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8
REFERENCE...
Recommended reference Windsock Datafile 153 RAF R.E.8 at War, By Paul R Hare (Albatros Productions), ISBN: 978-1-906798-25-3
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Using the instructions as a guide, the forward fuselage section received Tamiya XF-82 Ocean Grey and, once dry, this area was masked with tape. The upper wing and fuselage were then airbrushed with Tamiya XF-62 Olive Drab, mixed with a small amount of XF-60 to lighten its tone. A long and laborious task was to use strips of masking tape over the newly-scribed ribs, before the model was airbrushed with pure XF-62. Once the tape was removed the lighter colour underneath gave the effect of highlights where the ribs were located. It was also time to prep the model for rigging, by drilling pilot holes for anchor points. As the lower surface of the top wing was inaccessible once in place, an application of clear doped linen was applied. Following the technique used for the upper surfaces, Dark Earth was airbrushed onto the areas where the ribs sat, and then masked. Tamiya XF-55 Deck Tan was sprayed between the masking to give a solid colour, the tape was then removed and a misting was applied over the whole surface to blend everything together.
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15 Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8 16
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Once the main colours were applied, attention turned to the struts. As supplied by Airfix the struts were crude and extremely thick, and required replacements. Aeroclub styrene strutting of the correct width was cut to size and shaped accordingly, to improve vastly these important features. The engine components supplied by Airfix were the preferred choice for this build and, for the age of the model, the moulding was quite crisp. On checking photographs it was decided only to add the protection plates to the cylinders, these being made from pieces of 5-thou styrene sheet.
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With the struts added and suitably painted to represent polished wood, the model was given three coats of Humbrol Clear prior to the application of fuselage decals. These were wellm printed with great colour density and, with use of Humbrol DecalFix, settled without issue. ‘Harry’ was now coming to life! Next to be added was the upper wing. Positioning for this was vital and to aid the task, a jig was made from scrap card. Additional items were the two ‘King Pins’, various control horns, lower cowl fairings and the guides within the engine cooling duct; these were missing from the kit.
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This was the point where the box art proved itself most valuable, during rigging of the model. The R.E.8 had myriad bracing wires and although the Datafile book was excellent, trying to ascertain what went where was sometimes frustrating! Airfix’s artwork, though, combined with the publication, ensured that the rigging was finally completed.
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ADVANCED BUILD ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8
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After cleaning up the rigging anchor point, the flying surfaces that were still in primer were given the same treatment as those painted earlier in the build. The remaining decals were applied before the final components were added to the airframe, while the propeller was given a better shape by gentle sanding and the boss was made from a disc of 10-thou styrene. For the rigging, Aeroclub Rigging line was used throughout as it was both strong and forgiving. The same material was also used for control lines, once it was split to provide thinner cables. It was amazing how much extra strength the model gained once the rigging was in place.
To mount the observer’s Lewis gun, a scarf ring was scratch built from styrene rod and card (the gun came from a Roden SE.5a. Finally, smaller items such as the exhaust supports were added and painted before the whole model was given a very light misting of heavily thinned Dark Earth, to give a dirty impression.
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IN FOCUS ROYAL AIRCRAFT FACTORY R.E.8 The R.E.8 operated widely with the RFC and later the RAF, exemplified by this smart line-up believed to have been photographed in Egypt. (Malcolm V. Lowe Collection)
OVER THE Malcolm V. Lowe recalls the operational history of the Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 in World War One
D
esigned under the title of ‘Reconnaissance Experimental’, the Royal Aircraft Factory R.E.8 was a mainstay of Britain’s aerial assets in the latter stages of World War One. Although underpowered and with some handling problems, the two-seat R.E.8 was nevertheless the best that was available at the time and could perform with some distinction when well flown. Design of the R.E.8 commenced
in 1915, as a replacement for the B.E.2 series of reconnaissance aircraft of the early First World War period. The B.E.2 was easy to fly and inherently stable, but was increasingly obsolete and unsuitable for front-line work. The initial R.E.8 flew in June 1916, and eventually over four thousand examples were built by a production pool that included several motor car manufacturers. Power was provided by a 150 hp RAF 4a inline air-cooled V12 engine, which rarely gave the big R.E.8 enough power. Utilizing some of the B.E.2’s design features, the R.E.8 was also a little too stable for aerial combat, and had problems such as poor stalling characteristics. Several design changes were made during production, including alterations to the vertical tail shape. Despite its shortcomings the R.E.8 was a considerable
The R.E.8 was a big, unattractive but functional two-seat biplane, as illustrated by this Daimler-built example, serial number A4173. (Malcolm V. Lowe Collection)
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The pilot’s side-mounted synchronized .303in (7.7mm) Vickers machine gun is visible in this posed image of an Australian-operated R.E.8 being prepared for a bombing sortie. (Australian Flying Corps/RAAF)
improvement on the frail and basically obsolete B.E.2 series that it replaced. Initial deployment was with No.52 Squadron, Royal Flying Corps (RFC), in late 1916. After initial disappointment with the type, the R.E.8 went on to equip many RFC reconnaissance units that were stationed on the Western Front close to the front lines in France. Indeed, when the RFC was transformed into the Royal Air Force on April 1, 1918, the R.E.8 was one of the most important combat types that the new service inherited. Appropriately nicknamed ‘Harry Tate’ after the popular music hall performer, the R.E.8 was used over virtually all the fronts where the RFC (and later the RAF) was
active up to the end of the war. The type served not only over the Western Front but additionally in areas such as the Middle East and Mesopotamia (today’s Iraq). The R.E.8 proved to be versatile, performing such roles as artillery spotting, tactical reconnaissance, photography, and light bombing (including night operations), although an escort by fighters was always prudent. Nonetheless several pilot and observer/gunner crews did manage to achieve success in the R.E.8, the most successful claiming no less than 12 aerial victories. The Australian Flying Corps also made good use of the type over the Western Front. Post-war the R.E.8 even continued briefly in service with ❚ the RAF.
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10/09/2013 11:16
REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
Jan Maes depicts the SPAD XIII of Charles Nungesser with Eduard’s 1/48 scale kit
Typical Eduard box contents: excellent plastic, a good decal sheet, photo-etched brass and masks for wheels and transparencies.
On the real aircraft the forward fuselage was made of wood, and this was simulated with oil paints over an acrylic base coat. The fuselage sidewalls and cockpit floor sub-assemblies were completed and looked most lifelike.
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THIRD THE TOP FROM
T
he SPAD XIII was designed by the Société Pour L’Aviation et ses Dérivés (SPAD) to remedy the shortcomings of its predecessor, the SPAD VII. A specific issue with the latter was its lack of firepower from a single Vickers machine gun, but additionally, its 150HP Hispano-Suiza A8 water-cooled V8 engine made it no match for contemporary fighters such as the Halberstadt. With a single engine and mainly of wooden construction with fabric covering, the new XIII was of similar layout
to the VII but with improved armament in the form of two Vickers machine guns with 400 rounds per gun, and a series of new power plants starting with a geared Hispano-Suiza 8Ba, which delivered 200 HP. These modifications provided a notable improvement in flight and combat performance, and made the XIII faster than the Sopwith Camel and Fokker D.VII… but the additional weight made the aircraft more difficult to fly, especially at low speeds, which was the cause of many landing accidents. However, the geared
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
The fuselage halves, cockpit and lower wing were assembled. Top marks to Eduard’s approach of handling the top fuselage seam: in the end there wasn’t one!
MODEL SPEC
engines proved unreliable and this severely affected serviceability to the extent that by 1918, two-thirds of the 200HP SPADs were out of use at any time due to engine problems. Production was slow as well, and by the end of March 1918 just 764 of the planned 2,230 machines were delivered, but ultimately nearly all French fighter squadrons adopted the SPAD XIII (LATE) By:
Eduard
Stock Code: 8196 Scale:
1/48
Price:
Around £20.00
Available from: Various retailers
machine and 74 Escadrilles were equipped with it by the end of the war. Other Allied forces also flew the new fighter, and 15 out of 16 US pursuit squadrons were equipped with the SPAD XIII at the time of the Armistice. After the war the aircraft was also exported to Japan, Poland and Czechoslovakia and approximately 400 machines were still in service in the US in 1920, where it was phased out by 1922. Several SPAD XIII pilots secured great fame, such as Georges Guynemer (second highest-scoring French ace), Francesco Baracca of Italy and top-ranking American ace Eddie Rickenbacker, who scored 26 confirmed victories with the machine.
Lovely cockpit detail resulted from careful painting and PE parts – unfortunately most of it would be hidden once the top decking was added. Here, the fuselage top decking has been added. It was a perfect fit and required just minor sanding of the fuselage sides to eradicate the seam.
The kit Eduard’s kit came in the firm’s traditional top-opening box with excellent artwork. Inside were 73 parts spread across three PE engine cooling grilles were chosen instead of the plastic parts, as they offered far superior detail.
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
COLOUR SCHEMES Markings were provided for aircraft flown by four pilots in French service during summer and Autumn, 1918: • Sergeant Fernand Chavannes, Escadrille SPA 112 • Lieutenant Charles Nungesser, Escadrille SPA 65 • Adjutant Marius Blanc, Escadrille SPA 81 • Capitain Rene Fonck, escadrille SPA 103 Parisian ace Nungesser’s machine was chosen as the subject of this built, mainly due to the striking emblems on the side of the fuselage. Nungesser was the third highest-scoring French ace of the Great War, and besides his 45 aerial victories his actions secured the Médaille Militaire (while on the ground with the 2nd Hussars), Croix de Guerre, Legion d’Honneur, Cross of Karageorgevitch, American Distinguished Service Cross and British Military Cross.
cream-coloured styrene runners, while a single clear frame offered three different windscreens. While the kit was not one of Eduard’s ProfiPACK editions, it still came with a small photoetched (PE) metal fret and diecut windscreen and wheel masks. The instructions were typical of Eduard and consisted of a 12-page booklet with step-by-step instructions and clear, exploded diagrams that took all the guesswork out of part placement.
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Paint references were for the Gunze range and the decals were Eduard’s own, which in the past have always worked well for this modeller.
Fuselage first The instructions allocated no less than 12 steps to this stage – but it was a real shame that almost nothing could be seen of all this work through the cockpit opening. As the front of the fuselage was made of wood, all interior components received a base coat of Tamiya XF-55 Deck Tan, followed by a layer of Winsor & Newton Burnt Sienna, applied unevenly with a flat brush to simulate wood grain. Once the oil paint was dry, structural members were picked out with acrylics and a fine brush. The metal parts were painted XF-16 Flat Aluminium and the same colour was used for all pipework. Finally all the hose connections were painted black, with the connectors accentuated by dry-brushing. The cockpit floor and side walls were then completed by adding various pieces of etched brass. Quite a lot of time was spent on detailing the interior but as stated, little could be seen on the finished model… but this modeller knew it was all there! The next step was to close the fuselage halves and in this respect, Eduard deviated from tradition. Usually, the fuselage
The main fuselage and wing components were primed and the cockpit and engine duly masked. Wing and cabane struts received Burnt Sienna over an acrylic base coat to simulate varnished wood.
The struts were finished with help from EZLine, which was used throughout the build for all rigging.
Contrary to common practice, Eduard supplied the machine guns without PE cooling jackets.
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
The start of a long masking and painting session, which was inevitable because of the colour scheme’s hard-edged camouflage.
halves would close around the cockpit which would leave two seams for neatening. On a biplane with a fabric-covered rear fuselage this always creates problems, as the sanding inevitably obliterates the fabric detail and the ridges where the fabric runs over the fuselage stringers. Eduard addressed this problem with a different approach, as the fuselage halves did not contain the upper decking and so the build sequence was somewhat different. Firstly, the fuselage halves were joined without the cockpit and glued. The bottom wing was then dry fitted to the fuselage and adjusted slightly to ensure a flush fit all around. The cockpit assembly was then attached to the bottom wing and the whole thing was inserted in the fuselage from below and glued. Fit problems with this method would be very difficult to address, but thanks to Eduard’s engineering all mated superbly. After the seat was painted with a mix of W&N Burnt Umber, Burnt Sienna and Yellow Naples Hue to simulate
leather, the top of the cockpit assembly was finished with the addition of PE instruments, the seat and seat belts. Last but not least, the fuselage top decking was added, which left just minor joins to be sanded flush – all without the loss any surface detail. The radiator was airbrushed with Vallejo Bronze, while the louvres were painted XF-16 Flat Aluminium. The fuselage was then completed by the addition of the radiator assembly, engine cowling and engine belly pan. The kit offered two types of engine cooling grilles and the PE items were chosen, because they offered superior detail. The machine guns were a slight disappointment as traditionally Eduard provides the cooling jackets in PE, but in this kit the guns were single pieces of plastic. They were painted black and after being dry-brushed with aluminium they were rubbed with graphite powder and looked reasonable. The real SPAD’s propeller was built from laminations of wood and this was simulated by painting
Painting of the camouflage colours on the main components was completed, but it all looked rather lifeless at this stage.
After decal application the wing ribs were highlighted and a gentle application of oil washes brought life to the model.
Cabane struts were installed with care being taken in their alignment, as any mistakes here would cause problems with the top wing later.
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
PERFECT PROPELLERS
Biplane propellers were generally constructed from laminated wood and, with care, this can be replicated quite convincingly in scale form.
After an acrylic base coat was applied, W&N Burnt Sienna was painted by hand to mimic a laminated wooden unit.
W&N Burnt Umber was used for the other laminations and, once dry, the propeller received a coat of clear orange.
The completed propeller is seen after its hub was painted Steel, with a thin oil wash for added colour depth. All wing struts were installed and the rigging completed before the top wing was attached. The use of EZLine prevented broken rigging during this tricky phase.
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,alternating strips of W&N Burnt Umber and Burnt Sienna over a basecoat of XF-55 Deck Tan (see panel).
Mainplanes Building the wings was going to be somewhat more involved as not only were there two bays of struts per wing (unusual for a single-seat fighter) but each pair of struts had a cross-member and hence two sets of cross-braces. The struts were varnished wood, so after a base coat of XF-55 Deck Tan they were painted W&N Burnt Sienna with a flat brush to create subtle wood grain. Once the oil paint was dry, all struts received a gloss coat, in this case Johnson’s Klear. The struts on the prototype were reinforced with taped strips of linen which were then doped in place. On the model this was simulated by painting a mix of XF-55 Deck Tan, lightened
with XF-2 White and a spot of XF-3 Yellow with a fine brush for a matt finish. The finished struts then received a W&N Sepia oil wash to create depth. Biplanes need rigging and the material of choice was EZ-Line (available from Little Cars, www.little-cars. com) so the strut cross-braces were rigged first before the struts were installed on the wing with tiny drops of Superglue. This was a tedious job as the struts were too thin to drill and therefore all wires were butt-joined to the struts. All struts were then set aside for final assembly. The aileron actuators on the SPAD were a complex mechanism of levers and pushrods and the plastic parts in the box were not great – over scale with loads of flash. Attempts to neaten them ultimately failed, so they were discarded and a set of replacements were scratch built from Evergreen styrene rod.
The exhausts needed to be fitted at this stage otherwise the top wing would have made life much more difficult.
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
The model’s top wing has been put in place. Care taken earlier with strut alignment made this process far less painful than anticipated.
Complex colours The chosen paint scheme was quite involved as the camouflage pattern comprised six different shades, which were matched to Lifecolor paints (French Khaki, Tan, Sand Yellow) and Tamiya (XF52 Flat Earth, XF-19 Sky Grey and XF-69 NATO Black). The whole model was initially primed with grey Vallejo Acrylic Primer and then the six camouflage colours were masked and airbrushed – tedious but necessary as the pattern was hard-edged. This modeller’s last attempt at airbrushing Johnson’s Klear ended in disaster, so the model received two coats of thinned Klear applied with a large, flat sable brush for a mirror finish, in preparation for the decals. Charles Nungesser’s aircraft were adorned with his elaborate personal insignia: a black heart with coffin, skull and crossbones and two candles (unfortunately slightly out of register on the decal sheet) and these settled beautifully with just a hint of MicroSet and Sol. The same could not be said of the tri-coloured triangle behind the
cockpit, which disintegrated as soon as it came off the backing sheet. Reference material showed the aircraft with and without this triangle, so in the end it was decided to ignore this hiccup and not to hand paint this marking. The rest of the decals went on without bother and in fairness to Eduard this was the first time that one of their decal sheets misbehaved. At this stage the model looked pristine, and so the next step was to mask the wing ribs (all 196 of them) and airbrush a very thin mix of X-19 Smoke around them to bring highlights to the wing surface. The next step was to weather the model slightly with a thin Sepia and Paynes Grey oil wash. Once these were dry, the whole aircraft received a coat of Vallejo Acrylic Satin varnish, which reduced the contrast somewhat and provided a subtle sheen.
Undercarriage components were duly masked, painted and then awaited installation on the finished model.
Slight adjustment to the locating slots ensured that the undercarriage fitted perfectly.
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REVIEW BUILD SPAD XIII (LATE)
Disaster! Installation of the fin and rudder left a huge glue mark….time to slowly walk away and take a deep breath. Note that the decal was slightly out of register.
Final assembly The first stage was to attach the cabane struts, followed by the pre-rigged wing struts, making sure that the tops of all 12 struts were aligned correctly and styrene glue was used for this operation, as it provided plenty of time for adjustment. This only left the flying and landing wires which were made from EZline, attached with a tiny spot of Superglue. Before attachment of the top wing, the exhausts were painted and given a rusty look with the aid of pastels and pigments (Dark Mud, Black Smoke, Rust and Old
Aileron actuator parts were out-of-scale and not therefore useable, so a replacement set was scratch built.
Rust). The top wing was then attached without issue. Next were the machine guns, which exhibited a tight fit in their slots so no glue was actually used. Just the undercarriage needed to be completed. Painting the tyres XF-60 NATO Black was easy thanks to the wheel masks provided, and the undercarriage struts settled well after just a little adjustment. Finally, with the addition of the propeller, the installation of the aileron actuators and the application of oil streaks underneath the aircraft, the model was complete.
The underside received weathering with oil paints to simulate dirt and grime. This is always worth considering as almost all Great War aircraft flew from grass fields.
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A colourful fighter Eduard did a great job with this rendition of a popular Great War fighter, especially in the way the fuselage assembly was engineered. On the other hand, the resulting model was rather small and, with a fairly high parts count
and complex strut arrangement (and rigging requirement) made it less suited for the beginner. More experienced modellers, though, will end up with a beautiful replica. ❚
Here’s the finished model in all its glory...the complicated camouflage only served to give it more appeal.
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OUT AND ABOUT MILITARY ODYSSEY 2013
WARFARE I THROUGH THE AGES
A huge amount of German armour was on display, from motorcyle and side car combinations, transport vehicles and combat machinary.
For those with a bit of money, the main trader hall had everything from memorabilia to books, models and even replica weapons for sale.
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f you’re a military history fan, arguably one of the best weekends of the year is the Military Odyssey Show, held every August bank holiday weekend on what used to be RAF Detling airfield, Kent. This was the event’s 13th year and, as the name implies, it sends the visitor on a journey through 2,000 years of military history, with numerous groups staging battle re-enactments from the ancient world of 753 BC to the modern era, supported by restored and original vehicles from many of those years. Even a Viking longboat was on display and World War Two was particularly well represented, with Allied and German armour well to the fore, but equipment used in conflicts from the Somme to Vietnam, Afghanistan and elsewhere was also to be found. From a modelling perspective it gives one the chance to get up close and personal with a huge amount of armour and military hardware, with all the
photographic and research opportunities that go along with it; memorabilia and model kit traders were also eager to help one spend one’s cash. The August bank holiday is notorious for being a little unpredictable weather-wise and Saturday was no exception…torrential rain forced the Battle Of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster, Spitfire and Hurricane flypast to be curtailed – the aircraft flew right over the author’s house on their way but the low cloud over Maidstone meant that dedicated fans who braved the weather were unable to see them. On the Sunday and Monday, however, the rain went elsewhere and over the three days, it is estimated around 12,000 people attended, with 98 groups displaying their activities and 400 traders on site. If one hasn’t visited this event before, it is a hugely enjoyable day out for all the family with plenty to see… weather permitting of course! ❚ Kevan James
The amount of United States hardware to be seen was staggering; if the US used it, it was to be found displayed such as this pair of M8 Greyhound armoured cars.
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10/09/2013 11:20
SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB
OFF ROAD
LEGEND T
his kit has been around for quite some time and was released in several versions. Its latest incarnation is the Long Wheelbase Land Rover which is an ideal subject for either building as intended, as an Army vehicle or,
with minor adjustments and a little imagination, a civilian Land Rover as depicted here. Italeri’s offering was relatively simple and could be tackled by those with limited experience, and enhanced by those who would like to progress their finishing skills. Humbrol’s The front bodywork built and ready to paint; filler was used to smooth the contours at the front and along the upper wings.
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Weathering Powders were employed to demonstrate a simple and effective ‘well-used’ finish. The kit was broken down into four light grey styrene runners and one in clear; the latter appeared to come from one of the earlier releases, having cab windows
Alan Firbank improves Italeri’s LWB Land Rover and demonstrates Humbrol’s new Weathering Powders with built-in grilles. All parts were cleanly moulded with only a small amount of flash in evidence. For those wishing to produce the intended military version, there were two markings options supplied, one used by the IFOR mission in Bosnia in 1993 and a A coat of light grey was applied to the inside of the front bulkhead and all other interior surfaces.
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB Internal framework for the canvass cover was missing from the kit so new items were made from plastic rod. The frames supported the cover and provided strength to the fragile parts.
Gluing the roof to the sides of the canvass cover at their correct angles was one of the more challenging parts of the build.
Longer chassis The first four stages of the build covered the construction of the chassis. There was nothing too complicated but it was important to carefully follow the build sequence on the instructions. Life
was also made easier by painting the parts before progression to the next stage. The exhaust was painted with Humbrol Aluminium, while Tamiya Semi-Gloss Black was used for everything else. Rubber gators on the prop-shaft were picked out with Tyre Black (any very dark grey would suffice) and the telescopic sections given a coat of Xtracolor Oily Steel. The exhaust was just slotted in temporarily at this stage, and not finally glued until very much later. As supplied, the exhaust was about 5mm too short at the back end. It should be seen protruding under the rear bodywork behind the back wheel. The chassis was finished with the addition of the cab floor, sprayed Humbrol 40 Light Grey. After peeking inside parked Land Rovers, this colour was selected as being one of those suitable. From this point Italeri’s instructions were used to show where all of
The completed dashboard was painted in dark grey rather than black. A warning sticker and instrument faces from the decal spares box finished the job.
the parts belonged, but the build sequence was changed radically to something much more practical.
Inside and out While the light grey was in the airbrush, all other relevant parts were coated with this same
MODEL SPEC
Field Ambulance from 1984. In both instances the colour scheme comprised a pattern of Dark Green and NATO Black. As supplied, the kit was fine but with one major exception, the wheels. For those looking for a more convincing finish, these units would need to be replaced because wheel and tyre detail was poor on Italeri’s parts. This was especially obvious on the spare wheel on top of the bonnet. A set of Accurate Armour resin Land Rover wheels were used to replace those in the kit. At a little over £10, it was thought a useful addition and good value.
LAND ROVER 109’ LWB By:
Italeri
Stock Code: 6508 Scale:
1/35
Price:
£24.99
Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB
The rear bodywork was ready to receive different shades of green, inside and out.
There was no comparison between the kit wheels and Accurate Armour’s resin replacements.
shade (contrasting greys could be added later). Following test-fitting of the main parts, it was found that the front bodywork could be built as a separate sub-assembly so it was added to the chassis later. This build sequence made painting much easier and the addition of the wheels was also deferred. All panels around the front went together well but a significant step between the front wings and the front panel needed to be filled and smoothed to achieve the flowing lines of the real vehicle. The hole for the air filter in the left front wing was missing so was drilled, with the air filter part used as a guide for positioning. A diagram that showed the angle of the windscreen was not much help, so the doors were built so they could be used as templates for fitting the windscreen. The doors were dry-fitted to their locations and then the windscreen could be glued in place, by using the upper door parts to achieve the correct angle. There was no need to fit the clear windscreen panels until later. The finished front end clicked into place on the chassis and was left unglued for the time
being, while interior parts were gathered for painting and gluing. Firstly, the dashboard was painted with Tamiya XF-63 Panzer Grey rather than black; the latter would have simply been too dark to give a realistic finish. Sadly, there were no instrument faces supplied on the decal sheet so aircraft instrument face decals were popped into the appropriate holes on the dash, with a coat of gloss varnish to simulate glass covers. Dry-brushing was used to highlight the few knobs and buttons on the dashboard and, after painting, the steering column and wheel were added to the dash and the assembly set aside to be positioned later. All other internal parts such as the seats, foot pedals and gear levers were painted and set aside. Humbrol 87 Grey was used for the basic colour of the seats with a dusting of dark grey to simulate accumulated grime, mostly on the driver’s seat, then the outer passenger seat with the centre seat being the cleanest of the three. Fitting the seats was left until the rear bodywork was in place, but after gluing them in and while taking photos it became
The chassis underside with various parts picked out in metallic colours. Much of this would disappear under a layer of grime.
Here’s the completed chassis with the light grey-painted centre section, on which the seats would eventually be positioned.
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB Test-fitting the front bodywork to the chassis proved that they mated perfectly.
obvious that the void in the upper rear of the seats should have been boxed-in with thin plastic card. Hindsight is wonderful! With regard to the rear bodywork, again, the instructions showed probably the most impractical build sequence in this area. After parts were prepared and the rear bodywork floor was test-fitted with the chassis, it was obvious that a sub-assembly would be the way to go. All of the parts fitted well and were glued together, apart from the tailgate which was left off until later. All major sub-assemblies were test-fitted on the chassis and very minor adjustments made before pressing-on with the main paintwork.
Pick a colour A short visit to the Land Rover Defender website provided colour options for the bodywork and Holly Green was selected, based on nothing more than having a good selection of dark green paint in stock. Firstly, the inside of the rear bodywork and inner back door were coated with Xtracolor X111
Olive Drab. This brand generally dries to a glossy finish, to give an ideal surface for subsequent applications of weathering materials. External surfaces then received two coats of Humbrol 105 Dark Green, followed by Humbrol’s new Clear gloss varnish. Faded black was used on the radiator grille and the panels on each front wing before headlights were glued into their holes. Silver, applied to the radiator grille framework with the side of a flat brush, completed the front of the Land Rover. It was a shame that the indicators and side lights front and back were not provided as clear parts, but drops of red and orange made them look reasonable.
Three seats ready for painting. The slightly narrower centre seat is seen on the right.
Front and rear body sub-assemblies were trial-fitted with the chassis.
Canvas challenge Building what looked to be a straightforward cover for the cargo compartment proved as easy as erecting a tent in a gale. Sadly, the cover lacked any internal framework and a rolled-up rear section. When the back is open on the real vehicle, most owners roll up the canvass and it would
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB
The colour of the cover was compared with the bodywork. Italeri’s canvass texture was certainly worthy of mention.
The still-clean rear of the Land Rover and a new number plate were ready to accept decals.
All of the ‘sticks’ added to the cab floor. It is obvious here why the middle seat was only used in desperation.
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have been useful if Italeri had provided a part to replace the lowered back canvass. The internal framework was less of a problem. Building the cover was one of the most difficult areas and was best done when the rear bodywork assembly was available to use as a template in order ascertain correctly the angles of the cover sides. The main difficulty was the lack of locating points and the fact that at first sight one needed at least three hands to do the job; very little plastic held the roof to the canvass sides but strips of masking tape replaced the need for a third hand. Masking tape applied inside was used to hold the sides to the roof. Then, while holding the sides against the rear bodywork with one hand, a brush loaded with glue was run along the joins between the roof and both sides with the other. When the side-to-roof joins were firm a more generous application of glue was applied along the inner seams. Three sets of frames were added inside the canvass, replicated with plastic rod. Internal frames are an obvious part of the real vehicle and the plastic rod added strength to the canvas cover. The end of each rod sat on the top edges of the rear bodywork to support the canvas cover. Humbrol 78 Green coloured the cover’s exterior and matt faded Olive Drab was used inside, with the frame being brush-painted
with Xtracolor X111 to match the rest of the interior. A dusting of dark grey, mainly along the lines of the framework and on the canvas sides, simulated accumulated grime.
All together now As the intention was to show this Land Rover in a ‘used’ state, the weathering process started on the windscreen ‘glass’ panels. By using the length of the windscreen wiper blades as a guide, an arc of masking tape was cut out with a compass cutter. With the tape affixed to the windscreen, a very light dusting of earth paint was sprayed onto the transparent part. After moving the masking to the other screen another dusting was applied and the resulting arc of clean windscreen looked just right. Before the two main parts were fixed to the chassis, the underside of the bodywork was sprayed with dark grey. Wheels would not be fitted for a while so any wheel arch dirt could be left for the time being. The front bodywork was glued to the chassis, windscreen glass was fitted, followed by the dashboard assembly and fire extinguisher. The glass panels were (thankfully) a good fit and only needed a dash of Humbrol Clearfix to hold them in place. A little simulated mud went into the foot-well before the foot pedals were fixed in place and more mud was applied to the pedals and the passenger’s foot-
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB well. A drop of glue was applied to the stub of the exhaust, which protruded through the engine bay floor and to where the silencer and chassis framework met to secure the exhaust. Next, the rear bodywork was clicked into place and glued underneath. The three seats were added, with the grubbiest item behind the steering wheel. Contrasting grey was applied inside each door panel and muddy marks added where dirty boots catch the insides of the doors. To add variety, the driver’s door was posed open and the window wound-down a little. The door hinges were very substantial (just like the real thing) and the door hung securely when open. Removal of a portion of the driver’s window was easy with a sharp blade, steel ruler and a strip of masking tape to protect the ‘good’ part of the window. The passenger door was glued in place and the driver’s door pushed into position (closed) until weathering was completed. Before the finished doors were added, two mats were cut from thin card, painted tyre black and muddied with Tamiya Diorama Paint before being glued to the
floor. The bonnet was then the final large part to add.
Replacement wheels Accurate Armour’s set of five wheels was a work of art compared to those in the kit. The only small minus point was the spare, which should have had three nuts to hold the wheel to the bonnet as on real Land Rovers. A small strip of plastic card attached to a length of rod was used to simulate a way of attaching the wheel to the bonnet. Each resin wheel was attached to casting plugs, which were removed cleanly before the wheels were painted. Standard paint does not adhere well to ‘as-it-comes’ resin, so the parts were washed before a primer coat of paint was applied; offwhite was used for the wheels and tyre black for the tyres. A coat of Modelmates’ Weathering Liquid Mud Brown was applied to the main wheel hubs, to begin the wheel weathering process. Excess Mud Brown was removed with a wet cotton bud to reveal a well-used wheel then, a lightlysprayed application of earth paint to the spare wheel was all that was required. Accurate
WEATHER NG NOTES
Humbrol Weathering Powders are available in eight colours and come in 28ml screw-top bottles. The contents of the black bottle resembled photocopier toner and, like toner, a little goes a long way…on and around your workspace! With the old adage ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, it’s recommended that readers study Humbrol’s web-based videos. The powders can be mixed to give a wide range of shades, with black and white to darken and lighten to suit. These powders are versatile when used in conjunction with Humbrol Clear or Humbrol Matt Cote and Humbrol Enamel Thinner. For non-permanent weathering use powder and Clear mixed to a suitable consistency. Paint the mixture on the model and allow it to dry. A rub with a finger will show that the ‘paint’ is stuck to the surface. Now for the clever bit – the paint can now be removed with water. Use a wet paintbrush, cotton bud or similar to remove as much of the wash as necessary. Stop when you are happy with the result or apply more wash if you have removed too much. The weathering can then be sealed with clear varnish if desired. For permanent weathering, mix the Weathering Powder with Matt Cote and enamel thinner to a chosen consistency. However, remember if one selects this method, the weathering application will be a permanent fixture. This would be useful for applying thick, muddy deposits to tank tracks and wheels, for example. When the deposit is dry, a coat of gloss Clear will give the mud a wet look. Modelmates’ Weathering Liquids are also useful. They come in various colours, in jars and spray cans. Each can be mixed to give different shades and are best applied to a gloss surface (most weathering materials work best on gloss surfaces). The water-soluble dye is brush painted/sprayed onto the area to be weathered, and left a very short time to dry. Then, with a damp cloth, cotton bud or finger end, the colour can be removed to a suitable degree. For example, the dye can be left in panel lines on aircraft models or to emphasise detail on armour subjects. A coat of the firm’s Moss Green can be used to simulate moss which accumulates in the cracks of cobbles or paving slab groundwork. When one is happy with the finish it can be sealed with the appropriate clear varnish top coat. Video demonstrations on how to use Modelmates’ products can be found on: www.modelmates.co.uk. Tamiya Diorama Texture Paints are available in several shades such as Light Sand, Snow, Dark Earth, Soil, etc. The 100ml pots contain a very thick, coloured medium which can be applied neat using an old brush or blade. Also, it can be diluted with Tamiya thinner as needed but do not attempt to airbrush it. Straight from the pot, the paint can be used in ‘globs’ to simulate muddy deposits or thinned and brushed to replicate thinner layers of grime.
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB
The front of the Land Rover and its dashboard seen completed. The wiper sweep on the windscreen looked just right.
Armour provided the correct wheel span for the 1/35 Land Rover, as a guide for how much axle needed to be trimmed from the kit parts. With two lines drawn on a sheet of paper, the axles were trimmed until the wheels were separated by the correct distance. After Tamiya mud was applied inside the wheel arches, the four wheels were glued with cyanoacrylate (CA) to the axles.
Final trim
Doors inside and out, one window up and one partly lowered. Note the contrasting internal panel to break up the overall light grey. A few streaks of mud would follow.
On the runners there were two styles of front and back bumpers. The shaded set on the instructions was more usually seen on civilian Land Rovers, so one could choose between the two versions. After a coat of faded black overall, with a white number plate, suitable lettering from spare decal sheets provided a personalised registration. Yellow-painted plastic card was used for the rear number plate. More faded black was applied to the door mirrors and aluminium foil represented the mirrored surface. The dropped-back door was
fiddly to attach; its thin hinge pins needed treating with great respect and the two supporting arms had no location points. A generous application of CA to the hinges made the door attachment solid. Finally, two or three drops of CA also secured the spare wheel to the bonnet.
Everyday grime Weathering of the Land Rover’s exterior was relatively easy but one does need an airbrush that can be adjusted to give a fine spray pattern. A wide choice of colours could be used depending on the terrain where the vehicle was ‘used’. Here, Tamiya XF-60 Dark Yellow was employed. An important note is that rust does not occur on Land Rovers, as the body panels are made of aluminium, so one will not see oxidised patches. There was no substitute for studying a few examples of the real thing to see where dirt and dust accumulates, so paint could be applied accordingly. Sometimes the airbrush would spatter when With the front assembly glued in place, the model progressed in worthy fashion.
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SKILLS SCHOOL LAND ROVER 109’ LWB The model is finally seen on its wheels. Note the mat and a little mud in the passenger’s foot well.
Four well-used wheels and a clean spare to sit on the bonnet; Placing the spare in the back was considered but plenty of other goodies were found to fill that area.
starting to paint; this is usually an annoying and undesirable feature…but for once it was useful. During spraying of the outer body panels, the model was inverted and the underside received dirt. It was then time to add the driver’s door and mirrors. The rear of the Land Rover would receive a generous application of wear-and-tear, in a bid to portray a vehicle used by someone engaged in groundwork or building. This was a great opportunity to try out Humbrol’s new Weathering Powder range. To replicate wear on the painted surface, aluminium paint was applied lightly with a small sponge and a brush, where paint would be worn away to reveal the bare metal. Next, a small amount of Humbrol’s Weathering Powders were blended with Humbrol Clear to produce a cement colour. A fairly thin wash resulted and that was painted liberally around the inside of the back of the Land Rover. When the wash was dry, a small piece of moistened kitchen towel was used to remove most of the wash. The colour remained in the nooks and crannies as it would be in the back of a busy builder’s Land Rover. The great feature of this weathering is that if one is not happy with the result, it can be washed off and attempted
TOP T P A set of Compass Cutters is one of those items that is good to have in your toolbox. They are cheap to buy and easy to use. They may be used only very occasionally but make the job of cutting circular or arced masks so easy.
again. Humbrol has made a series of excellent instructional films showing how to use its weathering products (www.humbrol.com).
Realistic load The idea of having cargo in the back of the Land Rover resulted from the left-over shovel and pick axe. They looked lonely in there, so a quick search provided further items. Any modeller who regularly builds 1/35 models will have plenty of spares bits and pieces. Firstly, a resin oil drum was suitably painted. Two small lengths of florist’s wire were then used to make tie-down loops to secure the drum, with a length of rope left over from a ship model. The yellow crate, traffic cones and helmet were from 1/32 Fujimi kits. This modeller thought about placing the builder’s helmet on the middle seat, but it looked too big in that situation so it went into the crate. The bucket was a 1/35 accessory made from turned brass with an etched metal handle, finished with aluminium paint.
Muddy footmarks all around the floor helped with the presentation of a working Land Rover.
Rabid desire It is rare that a kit provokes the urge to build it immediately. This Land Rover was intended to be used as an experimental piece to test Humbrol’s recently issued weathering products…but as the project progressed, enthusiasm quickly grew for the model as a whole. Although basically an old kit, Italeri’s Land Rover can still be turned into a really presentable model. The lines looked good, although the icing on the cake was ❚ the replacement wheel set. Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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ON THE ROAD THE AUSTRALIAN MODEL EXPO 2013
Jamie Degenhardt of Brisbane displayed this beautiful 1/48 Tamiya Fw 190A-8, and took 1st in the Medium Scale Aircraft-Propeller-Axis competition.
T
he Australian Model Expo celebrated its 30th anniversary this year, which by anyone’s standards is a significant milestone. Held at the Sandown Entertainment Centre, just outside Melbourne, the threeday event encompassed all aspects of the hobby. Although the 2013 event didn’t set any new records, there were still approximately 600 models entered into the 63 competition categories (by
200 competitors), 20 individual/ club displays and 23 traders who ensured that there were plenty of goodies on offer, at discounted prices, to tempt even the hardiest shopper; brisk trade was obvious for the entire three days. Public attendance was also similar to previous years (6,000 plus) with families and modellers being very much in evidence. The competition categories were again well supported, with the real stand-outs
for the largest number of entries being the Figures, Trucks and Junior categories, of which the latter bodes well for the continued future of the hobby. Ian Hill won the WOW! Factor and People’s Choice awards for his magnificent U-boat diorama entitled ‘The Last Patrol’, while Ernie Hastas – a first time entrant – won the muchcoveted Best of Show accolade for his extraordinary 1/25 scale Mack truck 1988 Captain Bligh
Superliner II’, which had to be viewed at close quarters in order to appreciate just how much work had been done. The Australian Model Expo was again a resounding success, thanks to the dedicated band of volunteers, who ensured that every aspect of the show ran as smoothly as possible. For more information and photos visit: www.modelexpo.com.au ❚ Rene de Koning
New Zealander Ray Thorpe’s 1/35 Tamiya T-55 Enigma had an amazing finish and deservedly won 1st in the AFV Large-Modified-Post 1950 competition.
Stephen Ballantyne’s outstanding 1/35 Bronco Sd.kfz.6/2 secured a 1st in the Single Model Dioramas section.
Perth’s Jason Hudson entered his impressive 1/48 Academy CH-53E to win 1st in the Rotary Wing Aircraft heat.
This magnificent 1/35 YS Masterpieces Thorneycroft 55’ Coastal Motor Boat won 1st in the Ships-Powered Large category, for Brisbane’s Brent Simpson.
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10/09/2013 11:25
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT BOOKS
THE RAF’S RECKONING losses in airmen reaching an unsustainable level, and their aircraft and airfields decimated as a result of 24-hour Allied bombing. Often, it was the most exciting feats of bravery, determination and daring that were marked by the catastrophic losses. Approximately 62% of the 125,000 men who served as aircrew in Bomber Command during the war became casualties. Of these, 52% were sustained while flying operations and a further ten per cent while on nonoperational flights in Britain. It should never be forgotten that RAF Bomber Command played a hugely significant role in
securing victory for the Allies, carrying out mass raids by day and night that eventually culminated in them ‘beating the life out of Germany.’ The first-hand accounts capture an authentic commentary of the times, in a superb series that will become a Bomber Command classic. GS
BOOK SPEC
This is the fifth release in a series that provides a comprehensive insight into
all aspects of RAF Bomber Command in World War Two. It begins in late September 1944 when the Allied Bomber Offensive was at its height, and winds through to the end of the conflict. The crews’ personal narrative puts you at the centre of each intense and harrowing episode of aerial combat, as the pilots of Bomber Command attempted to stave off fears of tragic injury and death from fighters, flak and operational pressure during raids on German cities, waterways, ports and oil installations. This continued until the Luftwaffe and the Nachtjagd effectively ceased to exist, their fuel supplies exhausted, their
BOMBER COMMAND REFLECTIONS OF WAR By:
Martin W. Bowman
ISBN:
9781848844964
Price:
£25.00
Format:
A5
From:
Pen & Sword
BOMBING TO WIN?
BOOK SPEC
The twin-engined He 111 was the mainstay of the Luftwaffe’s bomber arm at the start of World War Two. Accompanied by the Ju 87 Stuka dive-bomber, it provided the aerial striking power for all the Blitzkrieg HE 111 KAMPFGESCHWADER ON THE RUSSIAN FRONT By:
John Weal
ISBN:
978-1-78096307-5
Price:
£13.99
Format:
A5
From:
Osprey Publishing
campaigns, sweeping aside all before it throughout the first 12 months of hostilities. Although it was found wanting when faced by the resilient RAF pilots and their aircraft during the Battle of Britain, it gained new renown on the Eastern Front. The He 111 bomber was in action against the Russians from the first day of the war until the last, bombing a range of targets including the cities of Moscow, Leningrad and Stalingrad. It played a part in all the major battles and was employed in a wide variety of roles, including operations as a strategic bomber, torpedo-
bomber (over the Arctic Ocean and Black Sea), train-buster, interim night-fighter and, latterly, as an auxiliary transport. For the 100th book of the Osprey Combat Aircraft series, the publisher has certainly chosen a great topic. As one has come to expect from Osprey this title is packed with previously unpublished photographs and stunning side profile artwork, although I’m still of the opinion that one four-view would be welcomed, and text that flows effortlessly with telling operational successes and disasters of what was the
backbone of the Luftwaffe’s bomber squadrons. An outstanding work for all those interested in World War Two aviation battles. GS
MIGS AND MORE IN THE MIDDLE EAST
For centuries the Middle East region has been not only a cross-roads between East and
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Syria and the UAE, plus Iran and Egypt, over the period from the early 1950s to date. While Iran and Egypt are not in strict geographical terms in the Middle East, they are included here as they fought all their wars in this theatre. Each nation is reviewed individually with an overview of the types used, their service record (including combat in conflicts of varying intensities) and extensive tables of individual aircraft with serials, construction numbers, versions and notes. The whole book is a rich source of intriguing colours, markings and modifications combined with a
mass of previously unpublished information, supported by more than 410 photographs, 150 colour profiles and insignia; all serve as inspiration to modellers and an enduring reference for aviation historians. GS
BOOK SPEC
West, but is a hugely important source of natural resources, notably oil. Not surprisingly, in the years following World War Two the Soviet Union sought to extend its influence in the area by the provision of arms and equipment including combat, transport, training and utility aircraft, even going so far as to provide personnel in support of continuing conflicts. This is the second title in a trilogy from Crecy on Soviet and Russian types operating with foreign states. The authors review in detail the aircraft types used by nine countries – Iraq, Israel, Jordan, Palestine,
SOVIET AND RUSSIAN MILITARY AIRCRAFT IN THE MIDDLE EAST By:
Yefim Gordon and Dmitriy Komissarov
ISBN:
978-1-9021092-8-2
Price:
£34.95
Format:
A4
From:
Crecy
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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10/09/2013 11:26
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT BOOKS
JACK OF ALL TRADES
The Junkers Ju 88 was probably the finest bomber to serve in the Luftwaffe, but its design, construction and
terms of offence and defence – of the Luftwaffe for much of World War Two. This first volume of a major two-part study and with the benefit of 40 years of study and archival research into the Ju 88, William A. Medcalf assesses the evolution of this important and elegant aeroplane, and its gestation at a time of monumental political change in inter-war Germany. In this context, the story follows with the design and development of the Ju 88, its prototypes and early flighttesting, its series construction, its mass manufacture and the production of its engines and
other equipment, as well as its performance when compared to its German and foreign contemporaries, competitors and enemies. A brilliant work and although expensive it's the very best title to be published to date on the Ju 88. GS
BOOK SPEC
speed meant that it could be adapted as a night-fighter, heavy fighter, torpedo-bomber and reconnaissance aircraft. This high-performance aircraft – planned and viewed as a ‘Schnellbomber’ (fast-bomber) by the Nazi political and military hierarchy – entered service in limited numbers during the campaign over Poland in 1939, but subsequently flew with distinction on every battlefront on which the Luftwaffe operated throughout World War Two, from the early Blitzkreig campaigns of 1939/40, through to the Mediterranean and the vast theatre that was Russia. Indeed, it was the very backbone – in
JUNKERS JU 88 VOLUME ONE By:
William A. Medcalf
ISBN:
978-1-906537425
Price:
£60.00
Format:
A4
From:
Ian Allan Publishing
BOUNCING BOMB LEGEND
BOOK SPEC
We Brits tend to like our heroes to be saintly, but the reality is that no-one is perfect and it often takes someone with an irascible, stubborn character to get the job done. These personality traits can arguably be attributed to Guy Gibson, the now legendary leader of GUY GIBSON: DAMBUSTER By:
Geoff Simpson
ISBN:
978-1-78159055-3
Price:
£19.99
Format:
241mm x 164mm
From:
Pen & Sword
1943’s ‘Dambuster’ raids. In this interesting book, the author does much to pull apart the enigma of Gibson, whose abrupt and sometimes condescending manner did not endear him to some of his subordinates; he didn’t suffer ‘fools’ lightly. But there’s still respect and reverence shown in the writing because, after all, Gibson did pull off an astounding mission and did much to make it work… his actions being awarded the ultimate accolade, The Victoria Cross. While most know Gibson because of the Dambusters, his early career is examined, and the fact
that he became a competent bomber pilot and commander who was eventually filtered to the RAF’s fledgling night fighter arm to impart his, by then, ample knowledge of operating after dark. His association with Bomber Command’s notable leader, Arthur Harris is also studied and it’s obvious that this high-ranking officer played a major part in Gibson’s elevation and success. The pilot’s troubled childhood is also described, and the book’s employment of a noted psychologist to explain Gibson’s behaviour is an unusual, but welcome, addition. The fact that Gibson’s bloody-mindedness
may have contributed to his (and his navigator’s) death in a de Havilland Mosquito makes the whole story even more engaging. CC
RISING SUN SPECIALISTS various pilots and their aircraft are explored with information on units and air bases, lists of casualties, air combats and aces, along with black and white photographs, line drawings and maps. Camouflage and markings notes with the aircraft illustrations are invaluable for ensuring accuracy on anything from the Ki-44 and Ki-61 to the earlier Ki-27. With many appropriate kits available and the various after-market decal sheets, one can employ this publication to very good measure and have a lot of fun in the process…after all, half of
the enjoyment in modelling lies in the research. With the pilot biographies for inspiration and more than 340 pages, this book is a splendid reference and vital for anyone thinking of ‘turning Japanese’. CC
BOOK SPEC
Japanese aircraft from World War Two are often ignored completely by modellers, apart from those die-hards among special interest groups or keen individuals. It’s a shame because they can make highly colourful subjects in any scale, and the history behind them, and that of their pilots, is fascinating. This Stackpole book offers a wealth of data for anyone considering builds of Japanese Army aircraft, and there’s much inspiration when one reads the biographies of the flyers. From Manchuria in 1931, through Pearl Harbor and to the surrender,
JAPANESE ARMY FIGHTER ACES 1931-45 By:
I. Hata/Y. Izawa/C. Shores
ISBN:
978-0-811710-76-3
Price:
£14.00
Format:
296mm x 190mm
From:
Casemate UK
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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{81} 10/09/2013 11:26
ON THE SHELF BOOKS & DVDS
DESERT UNIFORM DETAIL
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BOOK SPEC
AFRIKA KORPS 1940 - 1943 By:
Daniel Fisher
ISBN:
978-1-61364-345-7
Price:
£29.99
Format:
304mm x 215mm
From:
The Aviation Book Centre
on Deutsches Afrika Korps uniforms and equipment will be invaluable for detail and accuracy. The famous peaked cap is presented in full (and consumes 48 pages of the 76 in total) via colour photographs of collectors’ examples. Some readers may find this study excessive, but with the fact that the caps bore different coloured arm-of-service soutaches, this examination is warranted. The caps vary in quality and bear the results of desert bleaching, as well as the soldiers’ own attempts at creating the veteran look. One example in particular displays embroidery added by its owner while a prisoner of war. The
focus eventually shifts to uniform tunics, and varying shades of tan are exhibited, along with delicious detail such as rank badges, cuff titles, structural darts and stitching, and interior features. CC
BOHEMIAN LIGHTWEIGHT
The chassis of this Czech-built light tank served as the basis for a great many sub-types employed by the German Army during World War Two. Thankfully, many have been produced in kit form by the likes of Dragon and others, so it’s fitting that Squadron Signal affords In Action status to this most famous armoured
fighting vehicle. This hardback firstly focuses on early versions produced for the Shah of Iran and the Peruvian Army, before moving to the Ausf.A/B employed by German Panzer divisions. There is a table of production, broken down into Series, Ausführung, Fahrgestell number, production amounts and dates, followed by individual studies of the vehicles’ drive train, chassis, exterior and interior equipment and armament. Most of the black and white photos are of decent quality, and in particular a shot on P.18, of the prototype floating version of the 38(t) will certainly get the conversion juices flowing. A list of all German units that operated the tank is provided, along with
tables of operational, delivered and lost tanks in Wehrmacht service (and Pz.Kpfw.38s supplied to Germany’s allies). For many, though, it will be the coverage of more developed machines such as the siG 33-armed Grille, Panzerjäger 38(t) and Flakpanzer 38(t) that will be of most interest. Not an exhaustive study, but useful nonetheless. CC
BOOK SPEC
YPRES THE IMMORTAL SALIENT 1917-1918 This DVD follows the same path as the others in the series, by touring the battlefield of today and explaining what went on in that sector.The timeframe covered is quite long and therefore the story told may not be as in depth as some would like it. Messines Ridge success and the clawing mud of Passchendaele are covered and the purposes of the battles or series of battles are explored.The film also covers the German offensive of 1918 which threatened Ypres, but stalled and eventually led to end of the war. In addition to covering the battlefield, the darker side of what happened in the area, to soldiers who were convicted of cowardice, is covered. It is fitting that the film ends with the last post being played at the Menin Gate, having visited the cemeteries of the salient and told the story of their sacrifice. For details visit: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk DD
The number of Afrika Korps products seems to have grown in recent years, with kits and figures offering more. Traditional figure painters also have good products on the market. With this in mind, quality reference material is always useful, and this excellent hardback
PZ.KPFW.38(T) VARIATIONS By:
Charles K. Kliment
ISBN:
978-0-89747725-3
Price:
US $28.95
Format: 217mm x 289mm From:
Squadron Products
DEPENDABLE 'DEUCE-AND-A-HALF' The GMC was the mainstay of US Army thransport throughout World War Two and well into the Korean War. With its straightforward design, the truck was easy to drive, easy to maintain, and relatively easy to produce. The result was a reliable truck that was available in large numbers. Originally built in cargo/ personnel carrier and prime mover
BOOK SPEC
RAF IN THE EARLY 1970S This is the definitive collection of 22 official Royal Air Force archive films, most of them previously unreleased. Presented in chronolgical order these training, information, recruitment and instructional films give an unprecedented and in-depth insight into the breadth of RAF operations and squadrons during the early 1970s.They feature a bonanza of contemporaneous RAF aircraft such as the Vulcan, Jet Provost, Canberra, Harrier, Phantom, Lightning, VC-10, Hercules, Belfast, Comet and Nimrod. For those who were at school and recall seeing this film during a lesson, its like a trip down memory lane. I remember thinking at the time that I was very keen to be a Lightning pilot and intercept Russian Bear-Ds over the North Sea, on the ride home from school. This two DVD set is not only an ideal reference source but also shows how things have changed in the RAF. For details visit: www.strikeforcetv.com GS
THE GMC CCKW TRUCK IN U.S. SERVICE By:
David Doyle
ISBN:
978-0-89747-724-6
Price:
US $74.95
Format: A4 From:
Squadron Products
variants, the chassis was soon adapted for a myriad of specialpurpose trucks by the US services. Since the last CCKW rolled off the assembly line in 1945 it has been the subject of numerous books and articles published around the world. Previous authors have lacked access to the genuine General Motors documentation until now, and such titles have left many unanswered questions. David Doyle has produced an outstanding publication, and the benefit of having access to the historical records is clear with a treasure trove of information - much of it previously unknow or forgotten with the passage of time. For the modeller the images within
this book provide a wealth of diorama possibilities, while for the wargamer it shows the mutitude of variants in service with the US Army, and, ultimately, what's needed for a table-top army. GS
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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10/09/2013 11:27
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FEATURES INCLUDE Barnes Wallis and the birth of the Wellington Detailed directories of RAF and Commonwealth front-line squadrons and support units from the UK to the Far East Breakdown of each and every variant and the incredible roles the Wellington carried out Bomber Command’s stalwart, from early daylight to the ‘Thousand Bomber’ raids Colour schemes, markings and squadron heraldry
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635 Wells Special.indd 83
20/09/2013 14:32
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
SMALL-SCALE ‘SKELETON’
PACIFIC BATTLER
€18.13
Available from: Brengun, www.brengun.cz
Item no:
8224
Scale:
1/48
Price:
€25.95
Available from: Eduard, www.eduard.com
DIVE-BOMBER COMEBACK
TITANIUM TESTER
PRODUCT SPEC
Dragon has done an impressive job of rendering this fascinating, unorthodox experimental aircraft. Two sets of clear runners allow a pair of models to be built, so one can see the internal engine detail. Of course, one could paint the whole subject in the traditional manner, or possibly leave just some sections clear…the fun is there for the adventurous. The components are beautifully moulded, and there is X-3 STILETTO the option to pose the subject with By: Dragon wheels up as well as down. There’s Item no: 4637 even a tiny pilot’s seat to boost the detail level, along with a small but Scale: 1/144 very good decal sheet and superPrice: £14.99 fine metal pitot tubes: The two Available from: schemes are: The Hobby Company, • Douglas X-3, 92892, US Air Force www.hobbyco.net • Douglas X-3, 892, NACA
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PRODUCT SPEC
Price:
October, 1944 • 14, VF-29, USS Cabot, Jan-March, 1945 • Bu.No. 72534, 115 ‘Death ‘N’ Destruction, McPherson/Kingston Jr/Ward, VF-83, USS Essex, 1945
Anyone who read September’s issue, with Toni Canfora’s sublime build of this infamous aircraft, will know it’s a double-edged sword. Superb styrene detail all round (especially in the crew stations and the engine as a whole) is supported by a photo-etched brass fret with cockpit and engine embellishments, and a full set of masks…but one will become unstuck when trying to portray DOUGLAS TBD-1 the complex canopy in its fully DEVASTATOR open state. This boxing updates the markings, being billed ‘VT-6 By: Great Wall Hobby at Wake Island 1942 and, as such, Item no: L4809 one is provided with two styles of Scale: 1/48 colour scheme - one in grey and blue, the other in the older silver Price: £43.99 with yellow/green upper wings. The Available from: two options in detail comprise: Creative Models, • ‘5’, VT-6, Wake Island, 1942 www.creativemodels.co.uk • ‘3-T-14’, VT-6, Wake Island, 1942
PRODUCT SPEC
modeller, although for those adept at ‘metalworking’, it’ll be great fun. There’s even a resin press with which to properly shape the wheel spokes.
PRODUCT SPEC
Here’s what could be an incredibly satisfying project for experts in working with photo-etched metal. Brengun’s diminutive DH.2 comes with a resin fuselage, propellers (choice of two- or four-bladed), tyres and engine, but the real meat lies in the very busy brass frets which provide a multitude of parts with which to AIRCO DH-2 STRIPDOWN render the wing and tail ribs, and the rear framework booms…the By: Brengun idea being that one displays the Item no: BRS144018 aircraft without its skin. It’s a novel Scale: 1/144 idea but only for the experienced
Eduard’s original version of this fighter comes with extra parts with which to render the late version, with its revised cowling, wing guns and windscreen. The parts are generally outstanding across the five green styrene runners, and one in clear, while there are also resin wheels/tyres with separate hubs, tape masks and plain/pre-painted photo-etched metal. This medium provides detail for the cockpit, engine and bomb tailfins. The four US Navy schemes in detail are: • 32, VF-12 or VBF-12, USS Randolph, May, 1945 F6F-5 HELLCAT LATE • 99, Lt. Cdr. T. Hugh Winters Jr, By: Eduard VF-19, USS Lexington,
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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10/09/2013 11:28
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
BITE OF THE TSETSE
EASTERN FRONT FIGHTER
NIGHT HUNTER
With a detailed engine, this kit is a treat. The powerplant has refined moulding, and the top and bottom wing halves are moulded as onepiece items. Thoughtfully, if one doesn’t want to show the engine it doesn’t actually have to be fitted, thus promoting a better fit all round. Open and closed canopy options feature, but there is no moulded YAK-3 instrument detail. Three schemes By: Zvezda are included: Item no: 4814 • White 12, Lt. S. Nosov, 150th FAR, Scale: 1/48 Soviet AF, 1945 • White 6, 1st FAR ‘NormandiePrice: £17.50 Niemen’, Lt. Marcel Albert, 1945 Available from: • White 15, Capt. S. Rogovoy, 1st The Hobby Company, AS, 64th, Guards Fighter www.hobbyco.net Regiment, 1944
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
Hasegawa’s ‘Mossie’ has long been a favourite. Here, it’s re-released to portray the Mk.18 anti-ship variant with its punishing ‘Tsetse’ 57mm gun; an Army QF 6pdr with an auto-load system by Molins of Peterborough. The kit’s styrene parts are as good as ever, with very fine panel lines and rivets (but just a hint of flash on the exhausts), and one still gets the bomb and rocket armament. The new feature is, of course, the main gun which comes as a turned brass item, along with resin replacement bomb bay cover and muzzle fairing, nose cone and wing tanks. The decal sheet is impressive, with MOSQUITO FB MK.18 its large invasion stripe sections, but ‘ANTI-SHIP ATTACKER’ while just two schemes are shown on By: Hasegawa the instructions there are two further Item no: 02024 options on the sheet • NT225/O, 248 Sqn RAF, June 1944 Scale: 1/72 • PZ468/QM-D, 254 Sqn RAF, Price: £39.99 April 1945 Available from: • NT224 Amerang, www.amerang.co.uk • HR138
FROM NORWAY TO THE TIRPITZ
While not the most glamorous aircraft, the Firefly oozed character. Special Hobby’s kit has much to offer, despite the slightly challenging limited-run format; panel lines are generally fine and and the moulded styrene cockpit detail is respectable...and there are optional cannon barrels. No photo-etched metal is included, but there is a substantial resin main wheel bay and exhausts with hollow ends. Two styles of windscreen are supplied and the decals are good. The three Fleet Air Arm FAIREY FIREFLY MK.I schemes are: By: Special Hobby • Z1905/Q, 1771 Sqn FAA, Item no: SH 48127 HMS Implacable, Operation Scale: 1/48 Athletic, 1944 • Z1830/5-M, 1770 Sqn FAA, Price: €35.30 HMS Indefatigable, Operation Available from: Mascot, 1944 Special Hobby, • Z2116, 731 Sqn FAA, East Haven www.cmkkits.com airbase, 1944
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
This is ProModeler’s original mould which, despite having impressive detail, does have flaws. The undercarriage legs are angled too far forwards, and the engine nacelles aren’t deep enough, top to bottom, which transposes to the spinners and over-wing fairings; this will be hard to fix. That said, if one isn't fussy a presentable G-4 will be the MESSERSCHMITT BF result. The cockpit is excellent, 110G-4 with Schräge Musik cannons, By: Revell while the panel lines and rivets are finely rendered. Two schemes are Item no: 04857 included: Scale: 1/48 • D5+DS, 8./NJG 3, Skrydstrup, Price: £17.99 Denmark, June 1944 Available from: • Wk.Nr.160619, 3C+DK, 2./NJG 4, Revell, www.revell.eu Langendiebach, Germany, 1945
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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{85} 11/09/2013 10:50
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
CARRIER CARETAKER
PRODUCT SPEC
The latest Sea King variant from Cyber-Hobby is for what was to be the final decade of large-scale Sea King operations within the US Navy carrier fleets. Stripped of their anti-submarine gear, the SH-3Gs received a series upgrades to serve as logistical transport helicopters, known for their colourful paint schemes. Cyber-hobby has captured the look of the Sea King fairly well, although the nose does still look slightly 'off'. Finely moulded with plenty of detail, and folded rotors SH-3G SEA KING if desired, it is a high-quality By: Cyber-Hobby product. Three decal options are Item no: 5113 provided for the 1970s Gull Grey and White scheme: Scale: 1/72 • 8987, HC-2, USS John F. Price: £29.16 Kennedy Available from: Amerang • 9718, HC-1, USS Hancock www.amerang.co.uk • 9925, VC-1, Hawaii
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Hasegawa's legendary 1/72 kit gets another change of decals for one of the last units to fly the type in action. While the kit remains unchanged, the moulds have held up well, with just a small amount of flash being present. Once again no weapons are included, which now given its price, is poor. The cockpit is suitabily detailed along with the undercarriage bays as one would come to expect. This is Hasegawa arguably at its very best. Two decal options F-14A TOMCAT VF-211 are provided for VF-211's last By: Hasegawa combat cruise over Iraq: Item no: 02040 • AB101, 'Fighting Checkmates VF-211' CO USS Enterprise, 2004 • AB100, 'Fighting Checkmates VF-211' CAG, USS Enterprise, 2004
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
A second outing for Cyber-Hobby's Sea Venom, this time with the addition of a small runner containing two Blue Jay air-to-air missiles, (a development of the Firestreak), and their pylons; which given the small increase in price evens out we guess? Panel detail is finely engraved throughout and the cockpit only requires some fine brushwork and straps to be more than adequate. Although you'll have to work out SEA VENOM FAW.24 how the instrument decals go By: Cyber-Hobby yourself! There's the option of Item no: 5108 folded wings, but the overall Scale: 1/72 shape of the kit is suspect in certain areas, when compared to Price: £27.49 accurate plans: Available from: Amerang • FD-522, XG607, RNAS Ford, www.amerang.co.uk late 1950s
ONE LAST TIME BABY....?
Scale:
1/72
Price:
£36.66
Available from: Amerang www.amerang.co.uk
SUSPECT SKUNK WORKS?
Despite the veil of secrecy that surrounded the Lockheed SR-71s, enough information has now been released to reveal that Hasegawa has made a slight error with this kit. According to all the official documentation a modified Lockeed A-12, a different variant to the later SR-71, carried the D-21. The former had a different nose profile and shorter tail section. If one can look beyond this obvious error, what is provided is a cleanlySR-71A BLACKBIRD WITH moulded standard SR-71 kit with D-21B DRONE a much improved decal sheet, By: Hasegawa although the cockpits are very Item no: 02041 basic. Two 'assumed' decal options Scale: 1/72 are included: • 17950/507, USAF, Area 51 test site, Price: £33.33 Groom Lake. Available from: Amerang • 06940, USAF, Area 51 test site, www.amerang.co.uk Groom Lake.
PRODUCT SPEC
BLUE JAY INTERCEPTOR
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
86_aircraftkits.GS.CC.indd 86
10/09/2013 11:29
Harrier F_P.indd 1
10/09/2013 16:54
ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS
EARLY WAR GERMAN
EIGHT-TON TRIPLE-A
1/35
Price:
£47.50
Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net
HORSE-DRAWN GERMANS
PRODUCT SPEC
Italeri’s package offers a decent wagon with hooped cover, and the horses are reasonable, but the figures are disappointing in that they lack refinement and have heavy mould seams. Oil drums, tools, signs, a box, ladder and bucket are all useful items, while plastic card is supplied to create the reins, but HF.2 SCHWERER one would be better off using lead HEERESFELDWAGEN foil. A thoughtful product (if a little over-priced) and the figures need By: Italeri improving greatly or replacing. Four Item no: 6517 colour schemes are suggested: Scale: 1/35 • 114th Jager Division, Italy, 1944 • 87th Infantry Division, Price: £19.99 Russia, 1942 Available from: • 5th Mountain Division, The Hobby Company, Russia, 1942 www.hobbyco.net • Unknown unit, Italy, 1944
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PRODUCT SPEC
Scale:
This half-track has a wealth of detail; its armoured cab is well represented, the wheels are good renditions and there’s plenty to enjoy on the chassis. The type’s trademark winch is present, as are mesh screens around the flatbed and one can pose these up or down. Much detail lies in the 20mm Flakvierling, while the tracks are splendid…but they will need to be bent after immersion in hot water. SD.KFZ.7/1 An Sd.Ah.52 ammunition trailer By: Revell features and the well-printed Item no: 03195 decals offer four colour schemes, two of which include: Scale: 1/72 • Fallschirm-Panzer-Division 1 Price: £10.50 ‘Hermann Göhring’, Rome, 1944 Available from: • Heeres-Flak-Artillerie-Abt. 283, Revell, www.revell.eu 24. Panzer Division, Russia, 1944
AIRBORNE ASSAULT
Zvezda’s Soviet airborne fighting vehicle is a mixed bag; while it's respectable in some quarters, it falls down in others. High points include the main superstructure, but smaller components such as the lights, wheels and mantlet are also worthy. The gun itself and missile launcher, though, are a little basic (the latter comes in halves). The tracks are simple, BMD-2 ‘rubber band’ affairs, best replaced By: Zvezda with after-market items. There’s Item no: 3577 barely a hint of flash though, and a Scale: 1/35 clear runner is supplied to provide for turret vision blocks and lamp Price: £18.50 lenses. The decals are thin and well Available from: printed, but there are no unit details The Hobby Company, for the five vehicle options, which www.hobbyco.net include an IFOR example.
PRODUCT SPEC
decals for five colour schemes: • Red 544, 19.Pz.Div., Russia, 1941 • White 731, 2.Pz.Div., Russia, 1941 • White 722, 13.Pz.Div., Russia, 1941 • White 415, 2.Pz.Div., Greece, 1941 • White 402, 2.Pz.Div., Greece, 1941
PRODUCT SPEC
Dragon has updated its Panzer III Ausf.F with more than 70 new parts. There's a 5cm gun and its turret, new running gear/suspension and two styles of cupola with hatches which can be posed open or closed. Items such as engine screens, idler wheel portions and chains for the smoke candle pots come as photo-etched brass, but Smart Kit status means that less metal PZ.KPFW.III (5CM) AUSF.G than usual is included, with items EARLY PRODUCTION such as tool clamps being integrally By: Dragon moulded in styrene. Magic Track Item no: 6639 individual links are included along with
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
88_militarykits.CC.indd 88
10/09/2013 11:30
Javelin F_P.indd 1
10/09/2013 16:57
ON THE SHELF NAVAL KITS
MARITIME LIFESAVER
A CLASSIC UPDATED
KENNEDY’S ELCO
four sections. A real of twine is supplied for rigging and a bonus is the large sheet of paper signalling flags, while the decal sheet is beautifully printed. The two Atlantic colour schemes are: • HMS Snowberry, May 1943 • HMS Campanula, December 1942
By:
Revell
Item no:
05112
Scale:
1/72
Price:
£119.99
Available from: Revell, www.revell.eu
SCHNELLBOOT!
Still a good kit despite its age, Airfix’s German fast attack craft (which depicts an S-7 class vessel) is impressive and can be turned into a great model…with work. The bow cross-section is slightly misshapen and the depth charges and their racks are under-scaled, but any experienced modeller will be able to re-fashion these items with scratch-building materials and suitable reference books on hand. High points, though, include the flak gun base, torpedo tubes and the deck. There are four styrene runners, one in clear, a threepiece hull and a stand, and the five GERMAN S-BOAT figures are slightly better than those By: Airfix in Airfix’s RAF Rescue Launch. This Item no: A10280 full-hull-format S-boat would look Scale: 1/72 great beside Revell’s armoured cabin S-100 in the same scale. Decals are Price: £34.99 confined to Kriegsmarine emblems Available from: and simple hull numbers, which are: Airfix, www.airfix.com S10, S11, S12 and S-13.
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
Italeri’s kit depicts the famous vessel captained by the then future US President, John F. Kennedy, before it was rammed by a Japanese destroyer. On opening the huge box you'll be bowled over by the sheer size of the one-piece full hull (approx. 70cm long) and deck part. After that, though, one could be forgiven for thinking that there isn’t much else to this kit…but that’s not the case. On inspecting the four large runners and one smaller frame, it’s plain that there is still much to work with on deck. The armament is particularly decent…even down to the temporarily-lashed 37mm MTB PT-109 anti-tank gun on the fore-deck By: Italeri section. Cleat acetate is provided to render the windows, and there Item no: 5613 is a photo-etched brass fret with Scale: 1/35 plenty of detailing parts. Just Price: £99.99 Kennedy’s markings (PT-109) are supplied, but an alternative would Available from: have been useful. Two thicknesses The Hobby Company, of twine also feature for rigging www.hobbyco.net and for securing the front gun.
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In its day, Matchbox’s Flower Class Corvette stunned many on its release and the kit still stands up well today. Serious ship modellers will be thankful, though, for Revell’s upgrade treatment which comprises a self-adhesive wood-effect deck, large photo-etched metal fret (with details such as doors, handrails, hatches and portholes), real metal chain and turned brass gun barrels and masts. At 85cm long this model will make quite a statement, but with the additional details and careful working of the styrene components (on eight large grey runners, and one clear), this can FLOWER CLASS CORVETTE be really superb. Full-hull format PLATINUM EDITION is the only option which comes in
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
This re-release will please staunch Airfix fans and naval modellers in general who favour faster, smaller craft. The vessel’s distinctive ‘Whaleback’ cambered deck is present and the kit still stands up fairly well given its age. Seasoned ship builders, though, will find the kit a fine basis for adding scratch-built and/or after-market embellishment. Only a hint of flash appears on the parts carried by three grey runners, but some mould seams are slightly heavy. Clear components come by way of windows for the cabin and vertically-split ‘bubbles’ for the RAF AIR SEA RESCUE gun turrets. No waterline format is LAUNCH offered, just full hull with a stand, and there are also four figures which are By: Airfix reasonable, but better can be found Item no: A05281 on the after-market. Three different Scale: 1/72 English Channel-based boats from 1944 can be portrayed, two with dark Price: £16.99 grey decks and one with a yellow Available from: deck. The hull numbers are: 127, 156 Airfix, www.airfix.com and 130.
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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10/09/2013 11:31
Airfix Quadbike F_P.indd 1
10/09/2013 17:02
ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS FIGURES
EAGLE OWL ARMOURERS
By:
Zoukei-Mura
Item no:
SWS06-F02
Scale:
1/32
Price:
2,626 Yen
Available from: Zoukei-Mura www.zoukeimura.co.jp
PRODUCT SPEC
Dragon’s newly-tooled package has some very pleasing aspects, such as the inclusion of two Fallschirmjäger troops with their trademark kneepads and other airborne accoutrements. The pose of the two soldiers manning the machine gun, with one
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GERMAN BRANDENBURG TROOPS LEROS 1943 By:
Dragon
Item no:
6743
Scale:
1/35
Price:
£16.00
Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net
supporting the weapon on his shoulder while he clutches the bipod, is interesting, but there are some troublesome issues. Firstly, the instructions have errors and are ambiguous in places, which will hamper quick construction. Secondly, the airdrop weapons carrier has its parts mixed up so it can’t be built in its proper form. These matters aside, there is plenty of benefit here, such as extra personal equipment and weaponry…examples of the latter include StG.44, MP40, 98k, MG34, MG42, P38, Luger and Gewehr 43. The figures themselves sport good detail although there are the inevitable mould seams.
By:
Zoukei-Mura
Item no: SWS06-F04 Scale:
1/32
Price:
2,940 Yen
Available from: Zoukei-Mura www.zoukeimura.co.jp
FIVE FOR RUSSIA This double-runner offering has five figures with pleasing facial features, decent uniform rendition and a separate collection of weaponry. In summer battledress, the troops are all posed as if in the thick of the action with weapons readied, while a single soldier is seen drawing back a stick grenade before hurling it towards the enemy. The inclusion of a Soviet sub-machine gun is thoughtful and there are various 98ks with and without bayonets…and sniper rifles. The busy-looking machine gun crew adds urgency to this figure set, which can be employed in a great many ways for earlywar dioramas and/or vignettes.
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SPECIAL OPERATORS
HE 219 A-0 UHU TACTICS – DISCUSSING THEIR STRATEGY
GERMAN INFANTRY DEFENSE By:
Masterbox
Item no:
MB35102
Scale:
1/35
Price:
£11.99
Available from: Masterbox, www.mbltd.info
the other wears his flying helmet. On both, though, accents such as the fur collars are rendered beautifully. Even the map is supplied in resin, although some may wish to replace it with lead foil for proper scale thickness. A textured base is also supplied.
ITALIAN THEATRE
MiniArt’s usual crisp moulding is evident on these figures. The tankers could be used on any number of armoured vehicles, while the paratroopers will lend extra authenticity to vignettes or dioramas. Fallschirmjäger bandoliers on one para’ are well rendered, and there’s a mix of the classic peaked cap and airborne jump helmets. Just two small arms items feature…a 98k and an MP40, but the tank commander does clutch field glasses to add interest and there’s a useful seated driver figure. Mould seams are slight so there will be little cleaningup necessary.
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HE 219A-0 UHU BARREL CLEANING SET
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Here’s another figure set designed to be placed with Zoukei’s large-scale Uhu. Two aircrew members discuss their mission while studying a map. Both subjects are sculpted brilliantly, with a wealth of detail and different uniforms. One man is bear-headed (he holds his helmet in hand) while
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Produced to accompany ZoukeiMura’s stunning He 219, the same firm’s resin armourers are depicted cleaning a gun barrel… but with only a little adaptation, they could be used with various other Luftwaffe fighters. The resin is crisp and the detail noteworthy, with all 20 parts being well cast and having only slight attachment gates for easy part removal. Pleasingly, two types of uniform feature; one ground crewman wears overalls, while the other is dressed in standard two-piece trousers and jacket, the latter wearing sunglasses. A textured base is supplied, which has integrallycast parts, and a separate tool box and bucket also feature in this useful package.
NIGHTFIGHTER AIRCREW
GERMAN PARATROOPERS & TANKERS By:
MiniArt
Item no:
35163
Scale:
1/35
Price:
£8.99
Available from: www.miniart-models.com
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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Quickbuild F_P.indd 1
10/09/2013 16:59
ON THE SHELF DECALS
FLASHY TOUCANS
SNOOPING CANUCK SPITS
TUCANO DISPLAY AIRCRAFT 2012/13 By:
Alley Cat
Item no:
ACD72010
Scale:
1/72
Price:
£7.50
Available from: A2Zee Models, www.a2zeemodels.co.uk
No actual squadron details are presented but full profile, plan and underside colour drawings are provided, along with BS/ FS, Humbrol and Xtracolor paint codes. The decals themselves are top notch, with white backings for roundels and MDC chords for the canopies. The three aircraft are, ZF374, ZF269 and ZF239/RA-F.
Recce fans won’t want to miss this comprehensive collection of large-scale markings for Canadian Spitfires. Conversion work would have to be undertaken on whichever donor kit one chooses, but the instructions do offer scale drawings (and percentages for other scales) of the fuselage camera housing. Pleasingly, some of the aircraft carry nose art for variety, and one cannot fault the extremely detailed decal placement and colour scheme information. Besides two sheets of codes, serials and insignia, another offers a myriad stencilling. Seven aircraft are catered for, there
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PRODUCT SPEC
Special scheme fans have much to like here, with these three eye-catching liveries for RAF display Tucanos. They vary greatly and range from the all-black and red/white/ blue Queen’s Diamond Jubilee machines from 2012, but there is also this season’s inventive scheme which echoes the Dark Earth, Middle Stone and Azure Blue worn by RAF Spitfires in World War Two’s Mediterranean theatre. This sheet will please trainer enthusiasts and those who enjoy special schemes at the same time. Some of the stencilling isn’t quite accurate but this is merely a nit-pick.
BRITISH ARMOUR HERALDRY
UK ARMOURED DIVISION UNIT SIGNS By:
Archer Fine Transfers
Item no: AR77026 Scale:
1/35
Price:
US $8.95
Available from: Archer Fine Transfers, www.archertransfers.com
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By:
Aviaeology
Item no:
AOD32009m
Scale:
1/32
Price:
US $22.69
Available from: Aviaeology, www.aviaeology.com
being a mix of high/low-back and Merlin/Griffon examples, some of which include: • FR.IXc, MJ518/O ‘Helen II’, 414 Sqn • FR.IXc, MJ351/S ‘VioletDorothy’, 414 Sqn • FR.XIV, RM876/H, 430 Sqn • FR.XIV, RN114/RC-W, 430 Sqn
D-DAY DELIGHTS Here’s a fine collection of interesting markings for smallscale military enthusiasts. D-Day specialist Dan Taylor provides subjects for the less-researched Gold Beach, with a tantalising selection of vehicles, such as the Sherman, Churchill and Universal Carrier. In terms of kits, the appropriate items are available from Milicast, Firing Line and Airfix. Mr Taylor’s decals are well printed, with good colour density. Some options include:
descriptions of the units (along with theatres of operation) are printed on the instruction sheet. One will have to do their own research, though, in terms of positioning on the appropriate vehicles. North Africa and the Western Front are both applicable theatres for the units in question.
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
Long renowned for its excellent rub-down markings, Archer now offers waterslide versions in its AFT range, printed by Cartograf…and these are most useful for modellers of World War Two Allied subjects. The sheet offers multiples of the signs displayed by six individual Armoured Divisions: Guards, 1st, 6th, 11th, 79th and 7th. Colour density is splendid, as is the register, and brief
RCAF FR SPITFIRES
8TH ARMOURED BRIGADE & GOLD BEACH By:
Dan Taylor Modelworks
Item no:
DTM-T-76017
Scale:
1/76
Price:
£7.95
Available from: Dan Taylor Modelworks, www.dantaylormodelworks.com
• Sherman Vc, T-148496, A Sqn, 24 Lancers • Sherman V ‘Aberdeen’, A Sqn, 4/7 Dragoon Guards • Universal Carrier, 8 Durham Light Infantry • Churchill Mk.IV AVRE, 6th Assault Sqn RE • Humber Heavy Utility, M4894933, Divisonal HQ, 50 Div.
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
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IPMS F_P.indd 1
17/09/2013 09:55
ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES
Scale:
1/32
Price:
€4.89
Available from: Brengun, www.brengun.cz
FLOGGER FUN
PRODUCT SPEC
Eduard’s set will really raise the bar in the wheel bay area on Trumpeter's MiG-23. Two individual bays in resin are provided, with delicious detail such as pipework, accumulators and more, although the casting blocks are thick so a decent saw is vital. Gear bay doors are provided, along with actuators. Photoetched metal details also feature in this set.
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MIG-23M/MF MAIN WHEEL BAY By:
Eduard
Item no:
648105
Scale:
1/48
Price:
€17.25
Available from: Eduard, www.eduard.com
By:
Brengun
Item no:
BRL32007
Scale:
1/32
Price:
€4.46
Available from: Brengun, www.brengun.cz
By:
Eduard
Item no:
648107
Scale:
1/48
Price:
€11.25
Available from: Eduard, www.eduard.com
GERMAN SILK PACKAGE
WURGER DETAILS Designed to fit Eduard’s Fw 190 A-5, this useful set provides photo-etched metal details such as seat straps, stowage bin cover, instrument panels and pilot’s head armour, along with lovely resin main wheels and a tail wheel unit. The etched brass also offers refinements for the latter resin item, and there is also embellishment for the kit’s gun sight. FOCKE-WULF FW 190A5 By:
Brengun
Item no:
BRL48051
Scale:
1/48
Price:
€10.19
Available from: Brengun, www.brengun.cz
A fitting item to accompany single figures for individual display…or for traditional dioramas and vignettes, this neat resin parachute pack is splendid. It’s a one-piece item, which only needs its thin casting block to be removed by sanding. The strapping and folds are realistic, and with careful painting, washing and dry-brushing it represents an authentic piece of kit. WWII LUFTWAFFE AIRCREW PARACHUTE #1 By:
True Details
Item no: 32511 Scale:
1/32
Price:
US $9.99
Available from: Squadron Products, www.squadron.com
Special Hobby’s P-35 is pleasing but this busy detail set will lift it into another dimension. In photo-etched metal, the single fret provides replacement/ improvement parts such as cowling exhaust doors, aileron control horns, fuselage hatch (with acetate window), D/F loop, cockpit/seat details and a full set of flaps.
PRODUCT SPEC
BRL32005
US BOMB RACKS
AIM-54C PHOENIX
PURSUIT FIGHTER METAL
SEVERSKY P-35 By:
Maestro Models
Item no:
MMP7220
Scale:
1/72
Price:
€12.95
Available from: Maestro Models, www.maestromodels.com
LIBYA LOAD Don’t let the garish blue resin put you off…Olimp’s set is highly useful. No current 1/48 Typhoon provides Enhanced Paveway II bombs, but they are offered here in multi-part form along with their electronics conduits. Also supplied is a Litening III targeting pod, two extra wing pylons and centreline hard point. The final gem is a small decal sheet, which offers RAF serials for an 11 Squadron jet (ZJ932/DB) and ZJ927/QO-M of 3 Squadron.
PRODUCT SPEC
Item no:
Brengun
Whether one has the Academy or Hasegawa F-14, these crisp and well-detailed Phoenix air-to-air missiles in resin will surely better the kits’ styrene examples. Rocket motor sections with their fins are cast as separate items, while a busy, good-quality decal sheet offers comprehensive stencilling and colour code striping to denote live rocket motors and either live or practice warheads. Painting advice is included in the instructions.
PRODUCT SPEC
By:
TOMCAT STORES, BABY!
PRODUCT SPEC
TURNBUCKLES WWI
Anyone who has inspected aircraft pylons will know that they feature a locking mechanism, but this is not often rendered on kit hardpoints. Brengun’s six etched brass items need folding and gluing before use, but this is a simple task and the units will add welcome detail to various World War Two fighter pylons, such as the P-47. Once completed, the brass items fit in between the kit pylon halves, and can properly portray empty units or those with stores attached.
PRODUCT SPEC
PRODUCT SPEC
There are various ways in which to secure rigging on biplanes, but Brengun’s 1/32 etched brass items may be one of the simpler methods. Different styles and sizes are provided, and to attach them, one simply has to drill a hole and insert the part, using cyanoacrylate glue as fixative. It’s then down to anchoring the actual rigging between the turnbuckles themselves.
HANDY HARDPOINTS
PRODUCT SPEC
BIPLANE BITS
EF-2000 TYPHOON UPDATE By:
Olimp Models
Item no:
ORA 48-14
Scale:
1/48
Price:
£15.99
Available from: Olimp Models, www.olimpmodelsgroup.com
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
96_access.CC.indd 96
10/09/2013 11:33
CUTTING MAT CHAT WITH MEL BROMLEY
S&M Models founder Mel Bromley explains his early modelling efforts and how his hobby turned into a business y Father gave me my first plastic kit when I was seven-yearsold, an Airfix Fiesler Storch and as I recall it ended up as more glue than model. I’m sure my parents regret this as I was immediately hooked and very soon built up a ‘stash’ of Airfix polythene-bagged kits. Every Saturday involved a cycle ride to Woolworth’s with pocket money to purchase the latest release. Perhaps I forgot to discover beer and women and carried on modelling right up to date! It’s been mainly post-war aircraft but my taste has broadened to include AFVs and the occasional warship. S&M Models came about when I wanted to build a Silver City Airways Dakota and I was mortified having paid a small fortune for the kit, only to find the provided decal sheet was useless. After a chat with the proprietor of my local kit
{M}
emporium (The Aviation Hobby Shop, West Drayton,) I was pointed in the right direction to someone who would produce and print the decals. I was only going to produce three, but now we have more than 500 laser-printed and ten silk screen sheets. A chance conversation put me in touch with someone who claimed to have access to Chinese moulders and so the Vickers Viscount kit was conceived…a very expensive learning curve! So, S&M moved onto resin casting and we try to produce kits of more esoteric aircraft British industry has created, hence the ‘Alternative V Force’ for example. Our latest venture takes us back to injection moulding with two issues of the Williams Brothers C-46. Okay, it’s not our tool and not current technology but it will be great to see the old girl again. I intend to move all
production to 3D Printing as I see this as a vast new market and way forward. We have not changed plastic moulding technology since the 1930s and it’s about time things moved on. Imagine that in the future one won’t buy a kit, but might be able to purchase a computer file and print one’s own kit at home. Don’t say never, as it can
already be done if one has a 3D printer! I get a lot of pleasure from just sticking the parts of a kit together and I don’t count rivets or worry too much about FS/BS paint codes. Heresy to some, perhaps, but this is meant be fun and that’s why I do it – and if I can make other people happy along the way, so ❚ much the better.
THE NEXT ISSUE IS ON SALE NOVEMBER 7* {98}
Airfix Model World www.airfixmodelworld.com
98_cuttingmat.indd 98
*UK scheduled on sale date. Please note that overseas deliveries are likely to occur after this date.
10/09/2013 11:34
Hobby Link F_P.indd 1
10/09/2013 16:56
Gaijin F_P.indd 1
19/09/2013 10:03
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