70 REVIEWS
KOREAN WAR HERO
Eduard’s 1/48 Sabre
HOT HATCH Belkits’ 1/24 VW Polo R WRC
Mar 2017 Issue 76
SOUPED- UP
STRINGBAG
Detailing Airfix’s re-released 1/72 Swordfish
TINY DANCER 1/72 Zlin Z-50 from Brengun
£4.40
POCKET-SIZED SCOUT Tamiya’s 1/48 Humber Mk.IV
NOTIONAL FIGHTER 1/48 F-20 Tigershark from FMK
EDITOR'S DESK WELCOME
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WELCOME TO ISSUE 76
T
his month I’d like to say a big welcome back to our contributor Jen Wright, whom we lost for a few months due to a visit ‘down south’, and by this, I don’t mean a
holiday in Brighton! Her Royal Air Force duties carried her off to the Falklands, and I must say I’m quite jealous as it’s one place I’d love to see, as 1982’s conflict over the islands fascinates me to this day...and I’ve always wanted to see a penguin in the wild. Jen’s splendid Swordfish build in this issue is just one of a short series before the summer, in which we embellish Airfix re-releases with aftermarket and scratch-building activity. I feel this is something many modellers would like to see, as they wish to make their builds more involved than AMW’s usual from-the-box test-shots, covered just before their initial release.
Recent favourites, as well as a few older kits, will get the full-on treatment before Airfix’s brandnew toolings for 2017 grace our pages…and what a treat that will be, with subjects such as the Sea Fury and British Phantom. I’ve also enjoyed this month’s 1/48 Eduard F-86 Sabre, built beautifully by José Pires, with accompanying history by Warren E Thompson. The wonderful array of period photos showing the Sabre in Korea, with all those flashy yellow and black fuselage, tail and wing bands (and cool nose art) reminded me instantly of the 1958 film The Hunters, with the two Roberts – Mitchum and Wagner. The movie seems slightly cheesy now, but I loved it in my
youth and it inspired more than one F-86 build I can assure you. Speaking of classics, the Mosquito is very much in my mind at present, as the AMW team is working on another bookazine in our Scale Modelling series, which offers five builds of de Havilland’s finest, along with a host of history, exclusive scale drawings, period photos and colour artwork. It’s out next month, so if you love the ‘Mossie’ don’t miss it!
Chris Clifford, Editor
[email protected]
SUBSCRIBE AND SAVE! Subscribe to Airfix Model World and make great savings on cover price! See pages 74-75 for details. Editor: Chris Clifford Assistant Editor: Stu Fone Editor's Secretary: Tuesday-Maria Osborne Contributors this issue: Wayne Dippold, Glenn Sands, Toni Canfora, José Pires, Warren S Thompson, Jennifer Wright, Ian Grainger, Mike Grant, Garry Tobiss, Peter Johnson Art Editor: Tom Bagley Group Art Editor: Steve Donovan Group Editor: Nigel Price Production Manager: Janet Watkins Commercial Director: Ann Saundry Group Advertising Manager: Brodie Baxter Advertising Manager: Sarah Jarman Advertising Sales Executive: Elizabeth Ridge Classified Sales Executive: Hollie Keeling Ad Production Manager: Debi McGowan Group Marketing Manager: Martin Steele Marketing Manager: Shaun Binnington Subscriptions and Mail Order: Liz Ward Managing Director: Adrian Cox Executive Chairman: 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). 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/9.00-5.30 Monday-Friday GMT +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. Readers in the USA can place subscriptions by visiting www.airfixmodelworld.com or by calling toll free 800-428-3003 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. All items submitted for publication are subject to our terms and conditions. These are regularly updated without prior notice and are freely available 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.
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The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2015 was 12,524 print and digital copies monthly.
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CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?
REGULARS 06 News
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
68
The latest happenings in the world of plastic modelling.
12 Show Scene At-a-glance model show calendar.
74 Beat the price increase Subscribe to Airfix Model World and make great savings on cover price! See pages 74-75 for details.
76 On the Shelf Fifteen pages of reviews highlight the latest modelling and reference products from around the world.
98 The Plastic Surgery Quiz AMW’s team of contributors, history writers and industry contacts regarding your own modelling mysteries.
SHOW SCENE 24 Middle Wallop model show BUILD VW POLO R WRC 56 INTERMEDIATE
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Airfix Model World
BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I 48 ADVANCED
CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
16
FEATURES 16 Intermediate Build – Northrop’s Notional Adversary Wayne Dippold has plenty of ‘what-if’ fun with Freedom Model Kits’ F-20 Tigershark Aggressor, in ‘Sundowners’ guise.
24 Out and About – Rotor Town! Bad weather outside failed to dampen the spirits of visitors to last November’s Middle Wallop show. Glenn Sands reports.
26 Intermediate Build – Pocket-Sized Scout
34
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
Toni Canfora flies the flag for 1/48 scale military modelling, courtesy of Tamiya’s recent Humber armoured car.
34 Intermediate Build – Korean War Hero Eduard pleased many by repackaging Hasegawa’s 1/48 Sabre with its own aftermarket products. Here, José Pires adds even more detail and classic Korean War markings.
42 In Focus – Ace-Making Blade The Korean War success of the legendary F-86 Sabre is detailed by Warren E Thompson. You’ll love the period imagery, which is the perfect reference for Eduard’s kit.
48 Advanced Build – North African Invader With the imminent re-release of Airfix’s 1/72 Fairey Swordfish in mind, Jen Wright explores aftermarket detailing and adds Operation Torch markings.
56 Intermediate Build – Hannover Hot Hatch Belkits’ new 1/24 VW Polo rally car kit is put through its paces by Ian Grainger.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
26
64 Photo Focus – Rally Star Airfix Model World’s Ian Grainger got close to a real VW Polo rally car at last year’s Goodwood Festival Speed, to provide splendid reference photos.
68 Intermediate Build – Tiny Dancer Mike Grant achieves enviable results with Brengun’s 1/72 Zlin-50 aerobatic aircraft kit.
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NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
SOVIET SPY
GOOD KITS of the mighty MiG-25 have been a rare commodity, but now ICM has bucked the trend with an all-new RBT recce subtype in 1/48 scale. The Ukrainian firm offers a very creditable product with kit 48901, a trailblazer for other recce versions and P/PD interceptor kits from the same manufacturer, expected later. ICM has paid attention to the detail of this brutish-looking aircraft, in that the cockpit looks excellent, with a beautifully moulded instrument panel that has open dial spaces, to accept a glazed portion mounted behind the panel itself. The ejection seat is a worthy effort too. Other highlights are details inside the air intakes, full intake trunking, multi-part exhausts and separate
control surfaces. The kit isn’t perfect, however; apparently ICM measured the example in the Kiev Museum, which is, in fact, an RB/ RBT hybrid – this has an early RB nose and later RBT intake lips (the top panels need to be cut back on the kit). There’s also a slight issue with the nose cross-section profile, which should be perfectly round instead of the partly squared-off shape in the kit. But help is at hand as aftermarket firm Cold War Studio is soon to release a corrected nose. The rest of the kit’s airframe is impressive, though, and the type’s giant centreline fuel tank is also provided. The decals exhibit fine printing and offer schemes for two Soviet, Libyan and Iraqi aircraft. www.icm.com.ua
GROUP C COMEBACK
ENDURANCE CAR fans can now celebrate the re-introduction of Hasegawa’s 1/24 Porsche 962C, in Omron Racing colours. The firm’s 962 is generally well regarded, and this boxing (20280), represents the #55 vehicle driven in the snappily titled All Japan Sports Car Prototype Endurance Championship (JSPC for short), by the trio of Vern Schuppan, Eje Elgh and Keiji Matsumoto. This threesome pushed the car to first and third places at the Fuji 1,000km and 500km respectively, in 1989. Hasegawa’s kit comes via six white styrene runners (body shell coloured the same), and one in clear, plus rubber tyres and a reprinted
decal sheet, although the latter, frustratingly, does not have fully gloss carrier film. Despite the kit’s 1980s vintage it’s fared rather well, with just the occasional moulding blemish on the body. And while quite not up to the standard of current releases, it still offers reasonable detail…but can always be improved with photoetched metal upgrades. Hasegawa has re-released other Group C racers from the 1980s, which should also delight auto modellers no end; see p.84 for in-box reports on the Jaguar XJR-8 and Toyota 88C. All these are imported into the UK by Amerang: www.amerang.co.uk
NOCTURNAL SWALLOW
FRESH MILITARY HUES USA FIRM Mission Models has launched a new acrylic paint range, which includes additives and weathering shades. Marketed under the moniker of MMP, the paints are odourless, non-solvent based and triplepigmented for superb coverage. Fine, lightfast organic pigments ensure maximum opacity and each
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Airfix Model World
shade is airbrush ready, although they can be diluted with the firm’s own thinner for varying effects, and MMP’s Polyurethane can also be added to retard drying time. Initial stocks centre on a core of 53 military shades, primers and weathering colours. We’ve trialled them and the results are excellent. Mission has also just secured a UK importer, Tiger Hobbies. For further details visit: www.missionmodelsus.com www.tigerhobbies.co.uk
IT APPEARS that Revell has left no stone unturned in the quest for detail on its 1/32 new-tool Me 262 ‘Schwalbe’ night fighter. The kit (04995), depicts the B-1/U-1 sub-type and is absolutely rammed with fine features. A full gun bay with four Mk.108 cannon is provided, but that’s just part of the story as all looks great with the well-appointed cockpit, complete jet engines (separate nacelle panels offered, and open
lightening holes), and there are varied-position control surfaces and flaps. The wheels are also excellent, and the FuG 218 Neptun radar aerials are impressively delicate (although RB Productions has already issued metal versions if one seeks extra refinement). Two colour schemes are provided, both for aircraft from the Luftwaffe’s NJG 11. Look out for a full build in AMW soon. www.revell.de/en
OIL IN A BOTTLE CREATED AS an artist’s tool, oil paints are used increasingly by modellers for weathering and panel washes, and AMMO MIG has introduced a new twist. Its Oilbrusher range replaces the familiar metal tube with a bottle and includes a thin brush applicator, but effects are still created with a broader brush wetted with white spirit. Initially, there are 21 colours, including primary and skin tones, along with darker hues for washes and filters. www.migjimenez.com
DOTTIE ABOUT THE ‘JUG’
HASEGAWA’S 1/32 P-47D Thunderbolt has received the Eduard treatment, as the Czech firm has boxed it as part of its new eduART series. This format means that besides the kit styrene, photoetched (PE) metal and resin
details, and masks, one also receives a superb limitededition print of the box art (by Romain Hugault). Here, it’s an imaginative cartoon-style scene inspired by nose art painted on one of the three bubbletop aircraft represented
on the decal sheet. The machine in question is ‘Dottie Mae’, a P-47D 229150/K4-S, of the 405th Fighter Group, flown by Lt Larry A Kuhl. The Hasegawa ‘Jug’ is a cracker, but it’ll be even better with Eduard’s included PE, which comprises a large plain brass fret that carries engine embellishments, flap endplates, a whole new seat, mesh grille screens and more, while the pre-coloured frame offers a mass of cockpit details and seatbelts. Tape masks are also included, and the resin cache comprises beautiful new wheels and hubs. For further details on kit no.11103 visit: www.eduard.com
LAPLAND FIGHTER WITH A quartet of 1/32 cannonarmed hurricanes under its belt, Fly has now turned its attention to the eight-gunconfigured airframes. Three styrene runners, two photo-etched metal frets and most of the resin parts are common to all of Fly’s Hurricanes, but there is a new five-piece wing, accurate short fuselage, main undercarriage legs and Rotol spinner for this Mk.I variant (32016). As always, Fly’s resin casting is first-class, with the circular exhausts (replacing the Mk.II’s fishtail items) complementing the existing components. Airframe surface detail reflects the type’s raised rivets accurately, while panels are represented
with fine engraved lines. Four schemes are supplied, with a choice of HC-454, a late-war Finnish machine, and three RAF aircraft: L1926/DU-J, 312 (Czechoslovakia) Squadron, 1940; V6685/RF-J, 303 (Polish) Squadron, 1940, and
P3144, 69 Squadron, 1941. A full complement of data and warning stencils is included, and the decal colours are sharply delineated and in perfect register. Further information is at: www.fly814.cz
NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
{in brief}
SPECIAL EARLY-WARNER for adding context and decoration to a base for the model. Hasegawa’s usual crisp engraving is fully evident, as is the choice of flaps up or down. The colour scheme is a belter, with full-colour tails and impressive nose art on aircraft 166505/600/NF, shore-based at NAF Atsugi, Japan. Hasegawa kits are imported into the UK by Amerang: www.amerang.co.uk
SMART HART Finland’s Arctic Decals has released 1/48 markings for a highly attractive civilian Hawker Hart. Designed to fit Aeroclub’s Hawker Demon (with relevant conversion work), the scheme in question on sheet 48-018 is that of G-ABMR/91; a handsome Mk.II Hart, which was 13th off the production line and used as a demonstrator/camera aircraft by Hawker itself. This livery has it in dark blue (Tamiya X-4 is suggested by the instructions), with gold codes and white ‘91’race numbers, as worn in 1951’s King's Cup event. For further details visit: www.arcticdecals.com
FRESH LEGS
HASEGAWA’S E-2C Hawkeye 2000 has been re-boxed with new decals and a cloth unit patch in a limitededition package. ‘USS Ronald Reagan CVW-5 CAG’ (52142) offers the company’s superb 1/72 amended styrene to portray the improved 2000 sub-type, with more modern propellers and new airframe
details. For Hawkeye novices, the kit is unusual for the maker, in that it has moulded instrumentation detail and suitable decals, for extra choice. The jewel in this particular crown, though, is the included official aircrew patch for the US Navy’s VAW115 ‘Liberty Bells’, which is a boon for seasoned collectors, or simply
I’LL BE BACK
New additions to Scale Aircraft Conversions’ white metal landing gear range are as follows: 1/72 • 72132 Fw 190 (Eduard) • 72135 Eurofighter Typhoon (Hasegawa) 1/48 • 48316 P-40C Landing Gear (Bronco) • 48317 F2H-2 Banshee (Kitty Hawk) • 48318 F-14 Tomcat (Tamiya) • 48320 Curtiss P-40B (Airfix) • 48321 AH-64D Apache (Hasegawa) • 48322 F-4 Phantom (Zoukei-Mura) • 48323 Super Etendard (Kitty Hawk) 1/32 • Sopwith Pup (Wingnut Wings) www.scaleaircraftconversions.com
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Airfix Model World
RUSSIA’S TERMINATOR BMPT armoured fighting vehicles have garnered plenty of attention from kit manufacturers, and Tiger Model has now released the upgraded BMPT-72 variant. Compared to the original BMPT design, this version is intended as an upgrade for basic T-72s, rather than being a new-build vehicle, and this is reflected in the configuration of the turret and associated hull mounting. All these features have been captured accurately by Tiger Model’s Terminator II (4611) and, given the vehicle’s lineage, it’s unsurprising that it shares the hull, running gear, side skirt armour and individual-link tracks with its superb T-90 (see Feb 2017 Reviews). The all-new turret and upper hull armour is supplied on four replacement runners and
three wonderful slide-moulded components (comprising turret ring adapter, and upper and lower turret halves), which are provided dryassembled in protective packing. With more than 15 different runners, it’s a relief that Tiger Model’s signature labels are also included! Further delights include turned brass gun barrels, braided wire tow cable, two track jigs, and a photo-etched brass fret. The latter includes display mounts for four 9M120 Ataka (AT-9 Spiral-2) anti-tank missiles. Four schemes depict various prototype vehicles in different camouflage at Arms Expositions in Russia and Kazakhstan between 20132015 and at the VE Day 70 Years Victory Parade in 2015. For further information, visit: www.tiger-model.com
RISING SUN SHIP HUES ITALY’S LIFECOLOR has released two paint sets for Imperial Japanese Navy (IJN) ships from World War Two. The six-bottle packages feature a wide array of shades, useful for any number of IJN vessels. Set 1 (CS 36), provides the following: Sasebo Grey, Kure Grey, Yokosuka Grey, Maizura Grey, Linoleum Deck and Antifouling Red. Set 2 (CS 37) is billed as a Late War affair, which has these colours with aircraft carriers more in mind: Camo Green Type 1, Camo Green Type 2, Beimatsu Deck Tan, Hinoki Deck Tan, Camo Green Type 21 and Camo Green Type 22. The shades are satin-finish acrylic, come in 22ml bottles, and are available from The Airbrush Company: www. airbrushes.com
NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
SAUCER SURPRISE
MMD-SQUADRON’s first foray into kit production is unusual to say the least, taking inspiration from ‘what if’ tales of German flying experiments during World War Two. Accompanied by a neat alternative history, its 1/72 Haunebu II flying saucer (SQ0001) looks as if it has just escaped a 1950s B-movie, and comprises 14 styrene runners (including one for clear parts), although several contain
just one or two large pieces. Exterior detail is rendered as a combination of raised rivets and engraved panel lines, and careful weathering will yield a spectacular finish. All five turrets (main upper and four ventral) feature fully articulated guns, and there are separate wheel wells for the four sets of landing gear. The interior isn’t neglected, with a full crew compartment and seating for all nine operatives… there’s even an access ramp/ ladder leading to the central hub. A single RLM 62/75/78 splintercamouflage scheme is offered, which gives the completed model a menacing appearance, with notional markings for one of five machines assigned to Haunebu Geschwader, Neu Schwabenland, Antarctica in 1944. This is a cracking subject, and one which will provide plenty of inspiration for speculative derivatives, and MMD-Squadron is to be commended for selecting this as its first kit. www.squadron models.com
WHISPERING DEATH
ALL-NEW STORM
MANY WERE surprised when Revell announced the release of a new-tool 1/72 Eurofighter Typhoon, given the quality of its existing single- and two-seat offerings. Initial announcements were for a ‘Batch 3’ airframe, which caused confusion as Typhoons are ordered/delivered in Tranches and Blocks, but the eventual release (03952) is now described as a single-seater. Inevitably, one must compare this with the previous offering, and the five styrene runners feature improved refinement, notably on the exterior panel lines, ejection seat, mainwheel doors and exhaust nozzles…yet several parts appear identical. An inner wing pylon and third fuel tank is now included
(allowing greater options for equipment fit), but the intakes still lack any form of inner blanking plate, the fourth wing pylon is (still) missing, and there is no airto-ground ordnance. While the changes will hopefully ease construction, the reduced parts count and decal choices (just one instead of nine) do raise questions over its increased price (£17.99 compared to £13.50), although it’s still better value than Hasegawa’s alternative. The single option is for 30+90, TaktLwG 71 ‘Richtofen’, and is adorned with a stunning red/ black livery to celebrate the unit’s re-establishment as an independent formation. www.revell.de/en
‘WOLVERINE’ ROUND-UP
AIRFIX’S NEW-tool 1/72 Beaufighter Mk.X can now be converted to an Australian Mk.21 version, courtesy of High Planes Models. Set LO72014 offers hedgehog exhausts, a new instrument panel, bulged nose fairing for the Sperry autopilot gear, and hollow gun barrels for the four .50 cal Browning guns…all in pale yellow resin. There’s also a new gunner’s canopy in clear resin, and comprehensive decals for three aircraft from the 1944-45
period, S8-50/DU-H, A8-24/EH-C and A8-186/DU-I, which wear overall Foliage Green camouflage. This is a simple conversion, which demands just basic cutting of the kit fuselage, and the filling of one panel line and four underwing gun cartridge ejector chutes. The instructions are excellent, in that they provide quality line drawings and colour profiles for painting and decal placement information. For further details, visit www.hpmhobbies.com
IBG’S STUNNING 1/35 KTO Rosomak armoured personnel carriers have highlighted modern Polish vehicles, and Toro Model and Lifecolor have been quick to respond. The former has released three upgrade sets: civilian temporary registration plates (35026) for vehicles training in Poland, road priority symbols (35023), and a singlepiece resin conversion to replicate the turretless variant (35025). To reproduce the type’s black/ brown/green camouflage, Toro has collaborated
with Lifecolor to release a three-bottle set (MSTM02) along with a separate light tan interior shade (TM 010). More information is at: www.toromodel.com.pl
www.airfixmodelworld.com 9
NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES
GRUMBLE AND GARGOYLE COMMANDER
IN ADDITION to German World War Two subjects, Modelcollect is rapidly establishing a reputation for high-quality 1/72 scale modern Russian military equipment. The 54K6E ‘Baikal’ air defence command post is commonly associated with the SA-10 Grumble and SA-20 Gargoyle surface-to-air-missile systems, and Modelcollect’s offering
(UA72095) is a superb miniature. There are seven crisply moulded styrene runners, two photo-etched brass frets and eight hollow vinyl tyres. The majority of the parts (and the decals) is shared with previous releases of the ‘Bereg’ coastal defence gun (see p.83) and BM-30 ‘Smerch’ rocket launcher (see Sep 2016 issue) as all are based on the MAZ-543M chassis. This means the modeller is treated to a well-appointed drivers’ cab and an intricate powerplant and drivetrain, while new components are supplied for the rear command section (with a choice of open/closed doors), additional generators, raised communications mast and a SATCOM antenna. Three schemes are supplied, for an overall green, and twoand three-tone camouflage vehicles, and it will make an excellent diorama when posed with Modelcollect’s Grumble or forthcoming Gargoyle transporter-erector-launchers. For more details, see: www.modelcollect.com
FOURGON FANCIES
BRITISH SIGINT
UNTIL NOW, it’s hasn’t been too easy to build an accurate RAF RC-135W Rivet Joint signals intelligence aircraft. S&M Models has come to the rescue, though, with its useful conversion for Minicraft’s modern 1/144 KC-135R kit. In product SMC44-15, the RC-135W’s large cheek pods are supplied in resin, as is the rear under-fuselage fairing and the vast array of antennas synonymous with the type. A new radome is also present, along
with other parts such as wing pitot tubes and fairings to go on top of the fuselage and underneath at the rear. S&M also offers a full set of engines to improve upon Minicraft’s styrene examples. Completing the package is a well-printed sheet of decals for airframe ZZ664, of 51 Squadron at RAF Waddington, UK; the jet’s 100th anniversary marking is also present, along with full stencilling, walkways and the like. For further details, or to order, visit: www.sandmmodels.co.uk
AGRICULTURAL ABODE
A NEW brand has been quick off the mark with decals for Heller’s 1/24 Citroën Fourgon H delivery van. Acute Concepts has been involved in the hobby for some time, having designed instruction sheets, decals, colour profiles and instructions for the likes of Alley Cat Models. Now, though, the firm has launched its own Motobitz label for auto decals and accessories, and offers these highly attractive sheets designed to fit Heller’s vintage gem.
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Airfix Model World
Among the liveries are French Fire and Police examples, two Service Citroën vans, Café Moto in New York City’s Brooklyn, Michelin Tyres and our personal favourite, a Dublin, Ireland-based Guinness transport. The markings themselves exhibit superb printing, and all come with colour instructions, painting notes and even dashboard dial and gearbox shift placard decals. For further information, visit: www.motobitz.uk
RURAL DIORAMAS will be all the better for this superb 1/35 building from Czech aftermarket specialist Plus Model. The Farmhouse (487) comprises six ceramic lower wall pieces, a resin pulley wheel, a multitude of laser-cut wood sections and
pre-trimmed square ‘beams’, and a thick cardboard back plate (with pre-cut holes for the beams). While most construction stages are easy to follow, those for the building front need extra consideration, as it’s apparent Plus Model altered several parts to facilitate assembly. However, with a modicum of care, it’s a relatively quick build, and (given the materials employed) could be added to a diorama with minimal painting. Thanks to the lasercut wood and exceptional wall sections, it will respond well to washes and weathering, as the components will absorb the tones just as real items do...chipping and stripped wood effects will be affected similarly. For further details, visit: www.plusmodel.cz
Scale Aircraft Conversions White Metal & Resin Aircraft Parts Since 1990
48320 CURTISS P-40B LANDING GEAR (AX) (replacement for 1/48 Airfix) MSRP $13.95
48322 F-4 PHANTOM LANDING GEAR (ZM) (replacement for 1/48 Zoukei-Mura) MSRP $16.95
48323 SUPER ETENDARD LANDING GEAR (KH) (replacement for 1/48 Kitty Hawk) MSRP $16.95
72135 EUROFIGHTER LANDING GEAR (HAS) (replacement for 1/72 Hasegawa) MSRP $12.95
Extensive inventory of aircraft landing gear with 500 + sets and growing!
scaleaircraftconversions.com
SHOW SCENE DIARY DATES
s re
hows on
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Mo
SHOW SCENE
At-a-glance model and airshow calendar
Southern Expo 2017 Date:
March 18-19
Hosts:
Peter Bagshaw, Robin Bellamy
Address: Hornchurch Sports Centre, Harrow Lodge Park, Hornchurch Road, Hornchurch, Essex, RM11 1JU
MAR 4 Hosts: Address:
Times: Prices: Tel: Email: Web:
MAR 5 Hosts: Address:
Times: Prices: Tel: Email: Web:
ALDINGBOURNE MODELEX Aldingbourne Modellers IPMS Aldingbourne Community Sports Centre, Olivers Meadow, Westergate, Chichester, West Sussex, PO20 3YA 10am-4pm Adults £2.50, under-16s free N/A aldingbournemodellers@ gmail.com Aldingbourne Modelex (Facebook)
EAST OF ENGLAND MODEL SHOW 2017 Peterborough Scale Model Club The Voyager Academy, Mountsteven Avenue, Walton, PE4 6HX 10am-4pm Adults £3, under-15s free 01733 321617 peterboroughscalemodel
[email protected] www.peterboroughscale modelclub.co.uk
KEY
E MODEL DISPLAY
) MODEL COMPETITION J TRADE STANDS
MAR 12 Hosts: Address:
Times: Prices: Tel: Email: Web:
MAR 19 Hosts: Address:
Times: Prices: Tel: Email: Web:
Times:
Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm
Prices:
Adults £3, senior citizens £2, children £1
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
www.southernexpo.co.uk
EAST MIDLANDS MODEL SHOW
MAR 25-26
FANTAZMAGORIA 2017
APR 8
WELLING 2017
East Midlands Model Club The Leisure Centre, Argents Mead, Hinckley, Leicestershire, LE10 1BZ 10am-4pm Adults £4, children and concessions £1.50 N/A eastmidsmodelshow@ hotmail.com eastmidsmodelclub.co.uk
Hosts:
Film & TV Model Club
Hosts:
Welling Model Club
Address:
The Locomotion Museum, The National Railway Museum, Dale Road Industrial Estate, Shildon, DL4 2RE
Address:
Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, Welling, Kent, DA1 2PG
Times:
10am-4.30pm
Prices:
Adults £2, juniors and OAPS £1
Tel:
N/A
Email:
josephperera335@yahoo. co.uk
Web:
TBC
APR 8
SCALE MODEL EXHIBITION
Hosts:
IPMS Dorset and Poole Vikings Model Club
Address:
Parkstone Grammar School, Sopers Lane, Poole, BH17 7EP
Times:
10am-4pm
Prices:
Adults £3.50, children £1
Tel:
01202 743494
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
www.poolevikingsblog. wordpress.com
STOKE-ON-TRENT MODEL SHOW Stoke-on-Trent Model Club (IPMS) Sir Stanley Matthews Academy, Beaconsfield Drive, Blurton, Stoke on Trent, Staffs, ST3 3JD 10am-4pm Adults £2, concessions £1, under-16s free N/A
[email protected] Stoke-on-Trent Model Club (IPMS) Facebook
m
Times:
Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-5pm
Prices:
Free
Tel:
N/A
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
www.fantazmagoria.co.uk
APR 2
SHROPSHIRE MODEL SHOW
Hosts:
Shropshire Scale Modellers
Address:
RAF Museum Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire, TF11 8UP
Times:
10am-4pm
Prices:
Free
Tel:
N/A
Email:
[email protected]
Web:
www.shropmodels.org.uk
AIRCRAFT DISPLAY
MILITARY DISPLAY AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY
REFRESHMENTS FREE PARKING MAKE AND PAINT
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
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
NORTHROP’S NOTIONAL ADVERSARY Wayne Dippold sees the sun rise on Freedom Model Kits’ F-20B/N ‘what-if’ fighter
I
MODEL SPEC
t’s not often a modeller is given a truly blank canvas on which to work. Usually, models are built to represent a known article and
great care is given to achieve an accurate representation. That was not the case with Freedom Model Kits’ (FMK) recent F-20B/N; this jet never existed. Undoubtedly this will bring angst to many a rivet-counter on contest tables, because they will be unable to say something is wrong. Here, it was completely in the builder’s
hands to decide how to complete the subject. The F-20 was first developed by Northrop as an alternative lightweight fighter to the F-16 and destined for the export market. While possessing certain advantages over the Falcon (notably cost), bad timing and party politics killed the programme, with just three single-seat airframes produced. Freedom’s first kit on this subject was the F-20A, which was an accurate model of the prototype. The follow-on kit was a what-if modeller’s dream…a twin-seat variant that allowed the builder's imagination to flourish. Northrop F-20B/N By:
Freedom Model Kits
Stock Code:
18003
Scale:
1/48
Price:
£29.99
Available from: www.freedommks.com
The Wolfpack Design aftermarket resin nozzle set (left) was a more detailed option over the kit parts.
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What’s included? Inside the tightly packed box were eight runners of light grey plastic, one clear frame, ten poly caps for wing stations, a small photo-etched (PE) metal fret and a large sheet of very colourful decals. Three of the four main runners were common to the F-20A boxing, while another provided parts exclusive to the B/N. Surface detail was a thing of beauty; panel line and rivet detail was well represented and not too heavy. It should be noted
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
colour painting guide was also included, but just Mr. Color paints were referenced and it was up to the modeller to research shades from other manufacturers.
DECAL OPTIONS
Let’s dive in
that the weapons selection was smaller than on the single-seat kit with just AIM-9s provided. The plastic was rather soft, which seems common among Asian manufacturers today, but did not pose any problems during construction. Small ejector pin towers were prominent on many small parts, and required additional clean-up, but the 15-stage instruction sheet was clear and easily understood. It was decided that several assemblies would be completed more easily by alternate methods. A three-page, full-
Cockpit parts were well detailed and quite suitable right out of the box; the only deviation here was to replace the kit seats with a set of Aces II versions from Quickboost (QB 4810). The jet never existed so who is to say they were wrong? The interior pieces received Model Master (MM) 4755 Dark Gull Grey FS36231 acrylic, followed by a wash of 4606 Raw Umber and dry-brushed with 4795 Panzer Schwarzgrau. Instrument shrouds received Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black, were dry-brushed with 4672 Light Ghost Gray, while the seats were painted with matt black…with detail rendered in various appropriate shades. It was decided to try the provided cockpit decals and whoever designed the artwork was spot on, as the coloured portions of the decals fitted the moulded detail perfectly. The grey hue on the decal was somewhat different than that used to paint the cockpit, so individual sections of the decals were cut and applied separately. The decals conformed to the raised detail with little more than pressure from warm, damp kitchen paper. Vallejo 26.650 Matt Varnish muted the sheen, and its gloss varnish simulated glass on the instruments. In a deviation from the instructions, it was decided to mate the forward and aft
FMK offers five colour schemes on the large decal sheet, all fictitious of course, but based on actual F-5F schemes. The options include: VF-45 ‘Blackbirds’, 2 x VFC-111 ‘Sundowners’, Republic of China Air Force adversary, USAF adversary Both long and short shark nose radomes were included.
Separate control surfaces allowed the modeller many options in wing configuration.
Little ejector pin towers were present on many parts, and had to be removed for the components to fit.
“SURFACE DETAIL WAS A THING OF BEAUTY” www.airfixmodelworld.com 17
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
“SEPARATE CONTROL SURFACES ALLOWED THE MODELLER MANY OPTIONS IN WING CONFIGURATION”
The kit exhaust nozzle mounts had to be sanded to allow the Wolfpack resin exhaust to slide into place.
After mating forward and rear fuselage sections a sizable gap was present. Superglue and a scriber solved the problem.
Plastic discs were punched and used to fill ejector-pin marks on the gear doors…the only noticeable blemishes on the kit.
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Airfix Model World
fuselage segments, which gave full fuselage halves as opposed to front and rear sections. This method did reveal a nasty seam that had to be filled, but this route was undoubtedly much easier than trying to fit a completed forward section to the rear. No gun bay detail was provided, but cut lines on the inside of the panels allowed a choice of adding aftermarket accessories. It was decided to use Wolfpack Design’s (www. wolfpack-d.com) resin exhaust (WPD48205), which was a near drop-in replacement with just the attachment points for the kit exhaust needing sanding, to allow the part to slide in after assembly. No additional weight was necessary to prevent tail-sitting, due to its longer fuselage. The cockpit was glued to one side of the fuselage with Tamiya Extra Thin Cement, which gave ‘wiggle’ time to mate the fuselage halves. An option was given for a long- or short-nosed radome and it was decided to use the former. The top portion of the nose (part NB 6) was then attached, but required sanding before attachment to fit properly. Additional time spent here saved much extra work later, by not having to contour and re-scribe after assembly. The wings were then assembled as per the instructions. In turn, this structure would be mounted to the fuselage and the intakes then added, but it was found that this procedure would mean misaligned joins. Stepping back for a minute or two, it was decided that seam correction, and its effects on the extensive surface detail was an unwelcome
addition to the proceedings; enter the trusty X-acto knife. The top portion of the wings was cut carefully from the bottom and all the glued portions neatened with a file. The intakes were then joined to the fuselage individually and fitted perfectly without filler, and then the upper wing portions were joined to the fuselage, needing just a hint of filler along the root. The lower section was then attached and,
with persuasion from lockjaw pliers, everything came together well; but all this probably would not have been necessary if things went to plan.
Gap filling A sizeable gap was present along the bottom of the fuselage/wing juncture. Stretched sprue and Tamiya Extra Thin Cement filled this easily and, when dry, the area
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
The fit of the cockpit decals was exceptional. These were cut into sections and applied individually.
was sanded and re-scribed. The vertical tail fitted superbly and was attached without glue after painting, but a small scrap of styrene was placed inside the fuselage to support the front of the tail. Remember to paint the small rectangle at the bottom, as this blocks the open vents on the fuselage. FMK moulded all flying surfaces individually, allowing the modeller to determine how they would be positioned. In this case,
Careful decal placement and detail painting produced a cockpit that was more than adequate staright from the box.
all were attached in a neutral position except for the ailerons, which were given a slight droop after removal of the mounting tabs. Plenty of detail was provided on the undercarriage, which included retraction links. Landing gear bays and struts were painted XF-2 Flat White, followed by clear gloss varnish. All parts then received a pin wash of Burnt Umber oil paint. Main gear doors were left
After assembling the wing in accordance with the instructions, dry-fitting revealed large gaps would be present when mated to the fuselage. It was decided to cut the wings apart and take a different direction.
After separation, the top wing portions were glued directly to the fuselage…which produced a much more manageable seam to fill.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 19
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
“THE ATTRACTIVE SCHEME SHOWN ON THE BOX ART WAS CALLING…BLUES AND GREY 'SNAKE' CAMO”
While the provided kit seats were an adequate representation of the F-20A originals, it was thought if the jet had gone into production, newer seats would be used. Quickboost F-15 Aces II seats were deemed suitable replacements.
closed on this build, but FMK also provided open versions, either of which would be correct judging by reference photos of the F-20A. The doors (36/37) attached to the struts, but had very noticeable ejector-pin marks, so sheet styrene discs were made with a punch and die set to fill the blemishes (and were then sanded smooth). With the major assemblies completed, attention turned to cockpit transparencies. All clear pieces were dipped into Pledge with Future Shine (formerly Johnson's Klear) to add to clarity, and masked with Tamiya tape. MM 4755 Dark Gull Gray FS 36231 was applied to represent the inner framing colour. One odd trait was the canopy actuator arms for the front cockpit were visible from the outside of the canopy through the clear portion, so be sure to paint this section of the arm. A disappointing aspect was that the forward fuselage was decidedly not F-20-like, but a near copy of the F-5F. F-20s had a blown canopy and rounded front windscreen…parts that were included with the company’s original F-20A kit.
They were never that colour The completed Wolfpack nozzle was ready for insertion into the fuselage, after Alclad Dark Aluminium and Jet Exhaust were applied.
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Airfix Model World
This was the part of the build that every ‘what-if’ builder lives
for; bringing the plastic to life. Well, at least getting paint on it! The attractive scheme shown on the box art was calling… blues and grey 'snake' camo. Unfortunately, the colour schemes portrayed on the painting diagrams showed the snake livery in all shades of grey. Undaunted, and keeping in mind the jet never really existed, Air Superiority Blue FS 15450, Medium Gray FS 35237 and Light Ghost Gray FS 36375 were the way to go. To get the process going, Tamiya Fine White Primer was decanted and then applied to the model. Certain seams became apparent and were treated, then re-coated with primer. After sufficient drying time, the model was buffed with a drip-type coffee filter, the abrasiveness being equivalent to approximately 1,500grade Wet and Dry. After a wipe with a tack rag, the model was then ready for paint. Model Master enamels were used for the colour coats, with all but Air Superiority Blue
available from its standard line. By mixing 2131 Russian Flanker Medium Blue with 2030 True Blue at a 6:1 ratio, a suitable ‘close enough’ colour was achieved.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
To paint the ‘Sundowner’ scheme on the tail, a photocopy of the decal sheet was used to make paper templates.
With the remaining paper template as a guide, the tape masks were applied to tail, with great care taken to align the sunburst correctly. Insignia Red through the airbrush and hey presto… Sundowners!
The templates were then transferred to blue painter's tape and masks cut.
Paint was airbrushed freehand in lightest-to-darkest order starting with 1728 Light Ghost Gray, followed by 1721 Medium Gray, and then the Air Superiority Blue mix. The landing gear and airbrake doors fitted into their closed
positions well, making masking with tape unnecessary. The radome was painted matt Black. Wanting to have the Sundowners tail with Navy Fighter Weapons School emblem, but not the AF code, meant using the kit
decal for the tail was out and the red sunburst had to be painted. A photocopy of the decals was made and the white portions were cut out to serve as templates to cut masks, from blue painters’ tape. To
aid alignment, the red portion of the paper templates were positioned on the tail and the tape simply applied inside the cuts. With the tail already white from the primer, 1705 Insignia Red FS 31136 was applied. The
A small piece of sheet styrene was added and then trimmed flush, as a support for the front of the vertical stabiliser.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 21
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
Model Master Dark Gull Gray FS 36231 simulated the interior framing of the canopies and windscreen, before an overall primer coat.
After application of the camouflage, the radome was painted Model Master Interior Black, and the tail was positioned temporarily to receive two coats of Tamiya X-22 Clear before decaling.
“FABER-CASTELL PITT ARTIST PENS WERE USED FOR PANEL LINE ACCENTUATION”
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Airfix Model World
model then received two coats of X-22 Clear in preparation for decals. FMK’s markings were outstanding and adhered superbly, with just warm water needed to release them from the paper, and just pressure with warm, damp kitchen paper to help the markings conform to surface detail. The ‘00’ tail numbers were cut separately from the sheet and applied with the decal’s red colour, matching the paint exactly. Other items were custom-made on a laser printer, such as the arrester hook stripes and canopy jettison warning stencils. As a fun aside, crew names and callsigns were added to make this modeller and his best friend the flight crew. And why not? The fuselage portion of the exhaust area was painted with Alclad Aluminium ALC-101, while the Wolfpack Design resin nozzle received ALC-313 Jet Exhaust and the nozzle ring was coated in ALC-103 Dark Aluminium. Panel lines were highlighted with FaberCastell Pitt Artist Pens in varying shades of grey. Panel lines were then simply drawn onto the airframe, and any excess was then removed with paper towel to leave just the panel lines highlighted. After drying, two coats of matt varnish were applied, harmonising all colours with a uniform sheen apart from the radome, which was coated in satin varnish.
Fiddly bits Landing gear struts were painted gloss white and along with the gear bays, were given a pin wash of Citadel Nuln Oil (grimy black) before installation. All moulded
As an additional touch, True Details’ resin flight helmets were used. The red stars are from the kit decal sheet.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-20 TIGERSHARK
lights were covered in Bare Metal Foil and appropriate clear colours applied, then trimmed to size. This method produced a very convincing tinted glass look. MV Lenses were used in the lower forward fuselage, as the kit parts were undersized. Aggressors generally carried a captive acquisition AIM-9 round and an APX-95 TACTS pod, both of which were supplied in the kit. Model Master 2030 True Blue FS 15102 coloured the body and fins of the AIM-9 and XF-19 Sky Grey was applied to the TACTS pod. The seeker head on the AIM-9 received ALC-313 Jet Exhaust. Noticing little red stars on the decal sheet, the thought of adding a couple of flight helmets came to mind. After a product hunt, resin flight helmets by True Details (48546) were found and, once white paint and red star
decals were applied, the crew had suitable ‘bone domes’.
What a hoot! Freedom Model Kits continues to produce fine replicas of interesting subjects, which go together reasonably well. Panel line detail was sharp and consistent, although some modellers may consider it overstated. The parts fitted well, requiring little to no filler and any difficulties in the build were entirely self inflicted. For those with a passion for ‘what if’ subjects, FMK really pulled out the stops out with its F-20 series, and there’s no need to follow the prescript of a known prototype; modellers have the opportunity to truly build what they want. They can even make themselves, best friends or even mere acquaintances the pilots! ❚
MV Products’ miniature lenses were used to replace the undersized kit clear parts for the navigation lights.
Bare Metal Foil was applied to the tail and wing navigation lights and then over painted with either red or blue-green Tamiya clear paint. The foil mimicked the look of a reflector under the paint.
Faber-Castell Pitt Artist Pens were used for panel line accentuation, as they have a useful brush-type point.
A strip of tape was used as a guide for equal placement of the separate 20mm gun barrels.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 23
OUT AND ABOUT MIDDLE WALLOP SHOW
Airfix’s ‘Shackleton fever’ is still gripping modellers, but soon to be replaced by Victor fever not doubt! This MR.2 built by Tony Adams was one of several superb examples.
Rotor Town! T
he Aircraft Enthusiasts' Fair and Model Show at the Museum of Army Flying, Hampshire, is the modeller’s last chance for bargains before the winter ‘build hibernation’ begins in earnest. Despite high-winds and driving rain that lashed the south coast last November 20, a steady stream of aviation-minded individuals negotiated flooded roads to the event. But it was worth the drive to enjoy digging through boxes of second-hand books and piles of kits, and study displays from local
clubs from Salisbury, Gloucester, Langley Moor County Durham and Aldingbourne. Many visitors still had ‘Shackleton fever’ with a number of 1/72 Airfix and Revell examples on display. One Revell AEW.2 on Romsey Modellers’ stand captured the slightly weathered overall Dark Sea Grey exterior perfectly – inspiration for a winter build perhaps? South Hants Military Modelling Society had an impressive selection of AFVs on display, and one innovative diorama showed Allied officers in the summer of 1944 inspecting a captured V-1 flying bomb on its transport dolly. Once again, the Middle Wallop show felt like a large club with like-minded individuals, from local counties, exchanging modelling techniques and ideas. All this against the backdrop of a Lynx AH.7! What more could any enthusiast want? Glenn Sands ❚
model clubs in the region, in a less crowded environment than one finds at Telford’s Scale ModelWorld. The museum is always expanding and new displays have been added to the collection, including an interactive exhibit with astronaut Major Tim Peake who, now safely back on Earth, is test-flying Apaches for the Army. But with any show such as this it’s the models that are the focus, and there were plenty to drool over with displays from Poole Vikings, Newbury Scale Model Club, Romsey Modellers and British soldiers swarm over a captured German V-1 flying bomb to gain vital intelligence on the weapon. An accomplished yet simple diorama on the South Hants Military Modelling Society display. (All photos Glenn Sands)
Romsey Modellers had numerous impressive 1/48 aircraft models on display. One of the most talked about was this beautifully finished Eduard P-39L Airacobra, in the markings of the 91st Fighter Squadron, with the name ‘Wild Flower’ on the cowling. Battle of Britain-era Hurricanes always look impressive, especially with ‘operational weathering’. Tony Adams from Romsey brought along this highly detailed Mk.1, posed as if waiting for its next dogfight. Note the red doped gun ports.
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Airfix Model World
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
photo-etched (PE) metal – and some brands even specialised in the scale. I personally feel the strength with 1/48 is that the kits are almost as detailed as their bigger 1/35 cousins, but quicker and easier to build. The surface area is obviously smaller, which makes painting faster, and one can devote extra care to areas which, in larger scales, would have taken several sessions to complete. All these are important factors to consider, particularly for those whose ‘bench time’ is at a premium. Lastly, the models need less shelf space, which is a boon for those who wish to build a large collection.
Embracing the feedback
POCKET- SIZED
SCOUT
even within the most conservative parts of the modelling community. Due to the increased interest, many aftermarket companies began to release accessories and update sets – resin as well as
Some of the criticism Tamiya received about early models in this range, was that they seemed to have been scaled down rather quickly, simplified, and then put into production. There may be some justification for this condemnation, but the kits have since evolved and many, such as the Humber featured here, are all-new designs that have not been made by Tamiya in 1/35 at all. There may be fewer parts, but one explanation is that several components are moulded as one piece, which would not have been possible in 1/35, as that scale demands a higher level of parts breakdown, and is not necessarily a sign of a short-cut. Humber armoured cars were used in various versions during World War Two, and the type made its debut in Mk.I format from late 1941; the Mk.IV built here was
Toni Canfora sings the praises of 1/48 armour with Tamiya’s sweet little Humber Mk.IV
W
hen Tamiya launched its 1/48 range of vehicles about a decade ago, it met a significant amount of scepticism. Many AFV modelers wrinkled their noses and thought it was a
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Airfix Model World
scale solely for aircraft modellers; and aircraft builders wouldn’t be charmed just because it happened to be a typical aircraft scale. Tamiya stood firm, however, and soon had an impressive series of vehicles that slowly gained ground,
The hull was built from four major components, as well as pieces for the front and back. Surface detail was beautiful.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
The fit was excellent but care was necessary to align everything properly.
Despite the fact many components were moulded together on the bottom plate, the detail of the chassis was excellent for the scale.
Fenders and stowage boxes fitted well, and needed no filler or modification. The thin plastic of the former was impressive and gave the model a realistic look.
A small drill was used to hollow the lifting hooks on the front hull and back plate... an easy job that made a big difference.
introduced in 1944. The biggest change with the Mk.IV was that it was equipped with a 37mm gun, instead of the 15mm weapon employed in earlier machines.
suspension design, where the front arms were located on the hull side and ran down through the fender to the axle, and this detail has been
Body construction
MODEL SPEC
Assembly started conventionally with the hull, which consisted of four plates; because of the complex geometry, care must
be taken to align the plates correctly as described in the instructions. The chassis bottom plate was moulded in one piece, but the surface was well detailed and the drive shaft, steering and exhaust pipes came as separate parts. The Humber had a rather unorthodox
replicated perfectly. The items themselves were very thin and even though PE would be easier to work with to replicate damage, there was arguably no need to
British 7 Ton Humber Armoured Car Mk.IV By:
Tamiya
Stock Code:
32587
Scale:
1/48
Price:
£13.99
Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net
“THE FIT WAS EXCELLENT” www.airfixmodelworld.com 27
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
“THE GUN BARREL WAS MOULDED IN ONE PIECE”
The gun barrel was moulded in one piece, so there was no visible seam. Smoke dischargers were thinned with a sharp blade.
Splendid surface detail on the turret; small rivets, accurate folding hatches, and a thin raised edge around the top hatch.
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Airfix Model World
replace them. Ammunition boxes, fuel cans and fire extinguishers ensured a pleasing array of detail on top of the fenders, equal to that of a 1/35 model, with very crisp moulding. As usual, there is always room for improvement, such as replacing the styrene handles with finer wire versions, but it was decided to keep this build simple. A small facelift was conducted with the lifting hooks on the hull, as these were moulded solid instead of hollowed, but this was remedied easily with a drill. The wheels were rendered in traditional Tamiya style, whereby the entire wheel and tyre (except the inside of the rim) were moulded in one piece. This made assembly quick and easy and a slight mould seam was all that needed to be addressed. The wheels were truly an example of modern production technology,
The external tools were glued on the vehicle before painting. Note how the tool holders were shaped correctly, and different for each implement.
Styrene rod of more true-to-scale thickness replaced the stems on the kit’s side mirrors. The result was a much more crisp and realistic appearance.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
Tamiya Grey Surface Primer gave the model a solid base for the paint to follow.
After just a few sessions the model was complete and ready for painting. At first glance it was hard to tell the difference between this and a 1/35 version.
with exceptional detailing…right down to the smallest bolt-head.
Tools and turret Humbers had several tools mounted on the hull side, and these were depicted accurately in the kit. They were glued in place at this stage, rather than being painted separately, but this procedure is a matter of taste. Rods for the side mirrors were replaced by thin styrene rod for a more in-scale appearance. The build then moved on with the turret, which comprised an upper and lower part, a frontal armour plate with the gun mantlet, as well as separate turret hatches. Once again, the fit was flawless and the only modification was to thin the plastic on the smoke grenade launchers, and one of the hatches was split in two to be posed open. After just two evening sessions the model was ready for paint. Although no metal parts were used on the build, the model received a light coat of Tamiya Grey Surface Primer to give the paint better grip. The green was mixed freehand via several colours from the Tamiya acrylic range, and diluted with Mr. Hobby Leveling Thinner for slightly slower drying. A couple of lighter layers then followed on the flat upper surfaces. Tamiya decals have been notoriously thick over the years, but those supplied in this kit performed reasonably well with the help of setting solution. Sadly, the only marking option was for the 1st Polish Armoured Brigade,
and after research it was clear that this unit never used the Humber in combat. After training in Scotland, it later handed over its Humbers to a Canadian unit and received other vehicles in time for the Normandy campaign. The red and white band on the front hull plate came as a decal, but since it had such a prominent location it was painted to avoid any visible traces of decal film. The green topcoat was mixed from the Tamiya acrylic range. A first dark layer was followed by progressively lighter hues.
www.airfixmodelworld.com 29
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV The red and white insignia on the front plate was painted rather than being represented by the kit decals. This eliminated the risk of visible carrier film/silvering, or that the decal would hide the delicate bolt detail.
Finally, a thin layer of clear varnish sealed the surface in preparation for weathering. The tyres were hand painted with Vallejo acrylics, as were the tools.
Weathering The model first received two layers of dark brown wash, mixed from diluted oils to accentuate the surface detail. This was repeated subsequently in certain
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areas, to vary the effect and help to accentuate smaller details. When dry, small paint chips were replicated with a very fine sponge, dipped in diluted Vallejo dark grey acrylic paint. This was carried out in a very subtle manner to avoid an exaggerated effect. In certain areas, such as hatch edges, a graphite pen was used to imitate shiny metal. It was then time to bring on the dust
and dirt, again via washes. Dots of earth tone oil colours were placed on a piece of cardboard to allow some of the oil to dry, making them less shiny. They were then mixed with turpentine and applied where dust would most likely accumulate on a vehicle, such as corners, and around bolt heads and rivets. The effect was built gradually by fast-drying the wash with a hairdryer, and then a new layer was applied in selected areas to create variation. Small dots of oils were also placed directly onto the model and wiped off vertically (with a moistened brush) to simulate streaks. When the dust had settled, so to speak, darker washes were again applied to simulate areas were the mud was still wet. As a closing step, the
earth-coloured mix was spattered onto the chassis from a brush, using the tip of a finger.
Finer detail and context The two antennas were made from styrene rod, painted black and fastened with cyanoacrylate glue, while the turret searchlight lens was painted silver, followed by clear gloss varnish to simulate a glass surface. Most AFV models benefit from at least one crew figure, as it gives the model a sense of scale, and brings it to life. Tamiya’s Humber included a commander, posed in the turret and holding binoculars, and the anatomy and detail was surprisingly good for the scale. I’m not a master figure painter, but a few highlights and shadows in the right places can do much to bring a figure to a decent standard. Vallejo’s 70.921 English Uniform was used for the jacket, and tones of black and grey for the beret. The flesh was painted with Andrea Miniatures’ Flesh paint set (ACS-001), which comes highly recommended for the less experienced figure painter. As much as a figure helps bring a model to life, a base truly completes the story and transports the model further to reality in term of setting. Suddenly, a story is being told, regardless how small. Initially, the thought was to place this Humber on a base depicting a Normandy landscape, but as it was discovered that the Polish unit used them purely for training, the mission changed slightly. After a browse through reference photos and general imagery of the Scottish landscape, I came to
INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
the decision to make a small stone wall as a backdrop, and a narrow road in front of it. The basic shape of the base was cut from a block of foam insulation board. To make the scene more interesting, the road section was cut at an angle to create a slope rather than flat terrain. The sides of the base were covered with thin wood veneer and painted dark brown, which looks much better than just the painted foam board. The stone wall section was cast in plaster, via an old model railway rubber mould with a suitable pattern. This was cut to the correct dimension and fixed in place with regular PVA white glue. Next, a thick mix of plaster covered the road section and the area behind the stone wall and fine sand was pressed into the surface before drying. Another light coat of sand was then sprinkled over the surface, and diluted white glue was dripped over it to make
“PAINT CHIPS WERE REPLICATED WITH A VERY FINE SPONGE”
The rest of the insignia came from the kit decals, which performed well. A coat of clear gloss sealed the surface.
Brown wash was brushed over the entire surface, and accumulated quickly around the moulded surface detail. Further washes acentuate even the smallest features. The tools were painted with oils and Vallejo acrylics via fine paintbrush.
The tyres were hand-painted with Vallejo acrylics. It’s recommended to use dark grey rather than pure black.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD HUMBER Mk.IV
it set. Larger stones were finally placed along the roadside and in the centre of it. The stone wall was painted with Vallejo acrylics, in various grey nuances, and then a couple of washes further accentuated the detail. Airbrushed medium brown tones were then added to the road section, before individual stones were picked out in grey and beige with a fine brush, to enliven the otherwise bland surface. Joefix Studio’s (sic) has a wide selection of grass tufts and other types of vegetation and, after careful selection, they were added one by one in a random pattern on the slope behind the stone wall. The colours looked a little dull on some of them, so a few were airbrushed with a more vibrant green, which also created extra variety (for further details of the range, visit: www.joefix-studio.be). At this stage the base itself was ready, but to add more interest to the story, and to give more height to the overall scene, a small road sign was made from brass rod and sheet styrene, then painted black. Its lettering was created on a computer via a regular office printer, cut to shape and glued in place. A light wash and a few rust streaks completed the task.
“A SMALL SIGN HELPED TELL THE STORY...”
A refreshing change
compared to 1/35, offers possibilities to make more complex dioramas, or collections of vehicles, which would otherwise make a significant hole in the wallet, as well as occupying the modeller for a very long time. Tamiya’s Humber has definitely prompted thoughts of building other subjects in this ‘aircraft scale’. ❚
After the brown wash, lighter versions of the same followed to simulate dust and mud; oils were used for this.
This was a very rewarding project in many ways. Construction of the high-quality kit was a joy, and it was completed very quickly. It certainly gave an ‘energy boost’, which can sometimes be a welcome change for modellers stuck in more complex and timeconsuming projects. Secondly, the speed of the builds in this scale,
Small scratches and chipped paint were replicated with a fine sponge dipped in diluted grey acrylic paint. Care should be taken not to overdo this.
The procedure was repeated over the entire model for a dusty look. Darker washes followed for greater variety, and to simulate wet mud.
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BONNY GROUNDWORK Making an authentic base for a model is not difficult, but just takes thought and the right materials. Here’s how it was done…
A piece of foam board was cut to shape and the sides covered with thin wood veneer. Both were easy to work with.
The sides were painted dark brown and a cast section of plaster stone wall was glued to the base. Note the slight angle of the road section.
The ground was covered with a mix of thick plaster and fine sand, as well as fine gravel to represent stone along the roadside. The completed base. Vegetation came from the Joefix Studio’s range and was partially repainted for more variation in the green tones.
A small sign helped tell the story. It was made from brass rod and sheet styrene, and the sign itself created on a laser printer.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
KOREAN WAR
HERO B
uilt in huge numbers, the Sabre was unquestionably one of the greatest aircraft of all time. Facing a technologically equal enemy during the Korean War (in the MiG-15), the type achieved some of the greatest and most
symbolic victories in the history of air combat. As testimony to its excellent design, the Sabre formed the backbone of NATO’s fighter force in Europe during the 1950s, broke world speed records and even fought the world’s first airto-air missile engagements, when
The ejection seat and rear bulkhead were provided in resin and photo-etched metal. This was painted in Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black with highlights in dark grey, while the head and arm rest received Humbrol 60 Scarlet.
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José Pires heads down MiG Alley with Eduard’s Ultimate Sabre package
Taiwanese Sabres launched against Chinese MiG-15s in the Battles of the Taiwan Strait, in 1958.
Eduard treatment Inside the box were 87 light grey plastic parts, seven clear plastic components, one pre-coloured
A pre-coloured PE instrument panel was provided, to be placed over the plastic part… highly effective.
photo-etched (PE) metal fret (and another in plain brass), paint masks, nine grey resin items and a decal sheet with markings for five aircraft. The styrene parts were, of course, moulded by Hasegawa and were first issued in 1996, but the quality remains fresh and very little to no flash at all was present. The clear runner suffered from being ‘short shot’ but was deemed fixable (more on this later). As with all its limited-edition boxings, Eduard provided improvements to
the base kit, in this case, mainly addressing the cockpit area. Resin parts for the ejection seat were cast flawlessly, and besides two PE pieces, all the remaining metal was aimed at embellishing the cockpit and canopy areas.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD
MODEL SPEC
F-86F SABRE
Ultimate Sabre By:
Eduard
Stock Code:
1163
Scale:
1/48
Price:
€67.45
Available from: Eduard, www.eduard.com Undercarriage legs and bays received extra detail, via scrap styrene, copper wire and small pieces of plastic tube. This intake was removed as it was not present on the airframes active during the Korean War. Plastic card was used to blank the orifice.
The decal sheet offered five highly attractive colour schemes, exclusively for natural metal aircraft, and was printed perfectly by Cartograf. The first step was to wash all the resin and plastic parts with soap and water, before rinsing and letting them dry.
This process eliminated mould release agent still present on the parts and contributed to good paint adhesion. Hasegawa’s cockpit was reasonable via the plastic parts alone, but the resin and PE provided by Eduard transformed it into a real focal point. To install these bonus items,
several details present on the plastic parts were removed as per Eduard’s instructions. Vallejo 74.602 Black Primer then followed, as well as two layers of Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black. Highlights to this were achieved with Lifecolor UA 030 Dark Grey. Then, simple dry-brushing with different shades of grey was carried out on the side consoles. The Sabre utilised an ejection seat also built by its manufacturer, North American Aviation; it was reproduced exquisitely by Eduard and demanded careful assembly before black primer was airbrushed to harmonise the different media. Tamiya XF-69 NATO Black was used on the entire seat. The highlighting process was the same as described previously, and preceded the painting of the arm and head cushions with Humbrol 60 Scarlet. After ample drying time, the pre-coloured
“RESIN PARTS FOR THE EJECTION SEAT WERE CAST FLAWLESSLY ”
The compressor and exhaust fans received several layers of Vallejo Model Air 71.062 Aluminium and a dark oil wash, to enhance the contrast and depth of the plastic detail.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
PE seatbelts were glued in place and satin varnish was airbrushed in preparation for a dark enamel wash, which helped to accentuate the depth the piece. This treatment was extended to the cockpit parts as well, before matt varnish muted any shine.
Body closure Several sub-assemblies had to be constructed before the fuselage
halves were mated. The structure representing the intake trunk was built and the ejector pin marks dealt with. Also at this stage, the compressor fans and exhaust nozzle for the J47-GE-27 engine were painted in aluminium and treated to dark oil wash. When dry, these were subsequently enclosed both on the intake trunk and exhaust nozzle. The wheel wells were also dealt
with at this primary stage, and the front bay had to be glued to the underside of the intake trunk. Moulded kit detail was enhanced with a mix of different material such as copper wire, wire insulation channel, and plastic scraps. Main undercarriage bays and legs were also detailed as described. Black primer followed suit, before Vallejo Model Air 71.010 Interior Green was sprayed as the base colour. Details
were picked out with Vallejo Model Color tones, and AMMO MIG’s A.MIG 1618 Deep Brown Panel Line Wash created shadows. An important accuracy point was the necessary removal of an intake structure for extra cooling of the engine, moulded on the starboard side of the fuselage just in front of the airbrake bay. Hasegawa probably added this detail as it is present on licence-
The air intake was a simple affair, which accepted both the cockpit tub and nose gear bay. The entire sub-assembly fitted snuggly in the starboard fuselage half; note the weight added to prevent tail-sitting.
Just a smear of putty was needed where the wing underside structure met the fuselage. The area around the cockpit sill was detailed with PE parts and plastic strip. This was a weak point on the donor kit.
The airbrake bays were painted Interior Green and the details picked out with Vallejo acrylics.
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The intake lip seam needed neatening and Mr. Dissolved putty made short work of the task.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
built Mitsubishi machines, but it was not seen on US Sabres present in Korea. Therefore, the space was filled from the inside with plastic and sanded to shape, while the edge of the fuselage surrounding the exhaust nozzle was also thinned for a more trueto-scale appearance. Finally, as per the instructions, ballast in the form of fishing weights was glued on top of the intake trunk, which prevented the Sabre from becoming a tail-sitter. With sub-assemblies readied and the fuselage halves prepped, these were brought together with Tamiya Extra Thin Cement, which worked very well with Hasegawa styrene. The air intake needed blending with the fuselage, though, so Mr. Dissolved putty was applied in several layers (with sanding in between) until a perfect transition was achieved.
of Alclad’s range of metallic lacquers. The front and main landing gear legs were sprayed with ALC-101 Aluminium, the doors received ALC-119 Airframe Aluminium and airbrakes ALC-115 Stainless Steel. When dry, these components were weathered with ink pin washes. The selected inks were ComArt’s 21031 Blue Grey Smoke and 21041 Old Oil, applied with a fine brush and neatened when dry via cotton bud moistened with saliva. The wheels were represented by styrene items and were of good quality; the tyres were painted with XF-85 Rubber Black and the provided masks duly applied before the rims were painted and weathered. Finally, the tyres were weathered with A.MIG 3011 Airfield Dust pigment, fixed in place with matt varnish. The drop tanks were also built and detailed with Eduard PE
Overall view of the fuselage with the seam work done, re-scribed were necessary and ready to receive paint. The main undercarriage bays were masked with wet tissue paper and Maskol.
Pressing forward The mainplaines consisted of a full under-wing piece, completed by two upper wing halves. Fit and alignment was nearly perfect, just requiring a dab of filler on the wing root join and front edge. Undercarriage, doors and speed brakes were sprayed with X-1 Gloss Black in preparation for the metallic colours to followed, courtesy
“THE MAIN UNDERCARRIAGE BAYS WERE MASKED WITH WET TISSUE PAPER AND MASKOL ” www.airfixmodelworld.com 37
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
The fuselage received a primer of Tamiya X-1 Gloss Black, which served as the prescribed undercoat for the Alclad metallic lacquers. The canopy suffered from a moulding defect on the rail section, but plastic card and patience solved the problem.
Both the canopy and underwing fuel tanks received Mr. Paint MRP-3 Super Silver Metallic to good effect.
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Airfix Model World
The chosen base colour was Alclad ALC-101 Aluminium. Masking tape was used to section distinct panels, before the application of other various metallic shades from the same range.
items. When satisfied with the seam neatening, these were primed and received several thin coats of Mr. Paint MRP-3 Super Silver Metallic. This is similar to Alclad2, so the same protective features must be observed, namely good ventilation and a respirator mask. A small moulding hiccup was evident on the canopy though; it seems it suffered from being short-shot, which crippled the starboard frame. Nevertheless, it was salvaged with plastic card, Micro-Mesh pads and patience. When satisfied with the remedial work, it was dipped in Johnson’s Future floor treatment and, after allowing several days for curing, the same painting process used on the drop tanks was employed.
Prepping the surface The windshield was masked with items supplied in the kit (which fitted perfectly) and was subsequently attached with PVA glue, fairing the join with a watermoistened Q-tip. Behind the cockpit, and rails for the canopy, were then detailed with Eduard’s PE and an assortment of scrap plastic…this effectively addressed one of the kit’s shortcomings. NATO Black was then airbrushed, followed by several highlights in German Grey. The paint was then sealed with gloss varnish, in preparation for a dark wash mixed from Lamp Black and Burnt Umber oil colours. With the cockpit and adjacent area masked, the entire airframe was polished with sanding pads up to 12,000-grade and
INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
“THE ENTIRE AIRFRAME WAS POLISHED WITH SANDING PADS UP TO 12 ,000 - GRADE ”
airbrushed with several thin layers of acrylic gloss black, which acted as a smooth base for the metallic shades to follow. Any remedial work on the seams was carried out at this stage, and soon the model surface was ready for the main paint. To depict a Korean War airframe, a natural metal finish was clearly the order of
the day. With the black base cured completely, several Alclad2 metallic shades were airbrushed. The base layer comprised ALC-101 Aluminium, applied at 12psi (0.8 bar). When dry, selected panels were masked, and accentuated with ALC-102 Duraluminium, ALC105 Polished Aluminium, ALC-106 White Aluminium and ALC-115 Stainless Steel. All this work was guided through the study of several reference
photos of the actual airframe found online, in an attempt to emulate (as far as this modeller’s talent could permit) the actual finish of the real thing. Of note is the necessity to portray the whitish aluminium alloy used on the centre wing panels. It should be almost common sense nowadays, but emphasis must be put on the safety measures used when applying lacquers; again, a decent filter mask and proper ventilation are vital.
Incorporating detail The chosen colour scheme for this build represented tail number 24539, an F-86F-30 belonging to the 336ths FIS ‘Rocketeers’, based at Kimpo Air Base (K-14), circa 1954. The aircraft bore two names – on the port side was ‘Dreaded Gomboo’, a name chosen by pilot Lt Ken Ewing. To starboard the name was ‘Sweet Rose’, the moniker of crew chief Walter Yocum’s fiancée, whom he eventually married. This airframe bore two colour accents of importance. The nose section surrounding the air intake was blue, which was depicted with Tamiya's X-4. Note that in the instructions, the fairing protecting the radar is quoted as light
The model’s surface gained interest as several panels contrasted with others in different metallic shades. Note the central panel on both wings. This is a distinctive feature and was accomplished with alclad2 ALC-106 White Aluminium.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD F-86F SABRE
The radar cover on the intake lip was painted in Vallejo Model Air 71.056 Black Grey.
Decals were applied over Tamiya X-22 Clear, and responded perfectly to Micro Set and Sol solutions.
Reference • Walkaround 21 F-86 Sabre, by Larry Davis (Squadron/Signal) ISBN: 978-0-89747-409-2 • Haynes Owners’ Workshop Manual North American F-86 Sabre, by Mark Linney (Haynes), ISBN: 978-0-85733-094-9 • MiG Alley, by Larry Davis (Squadron/Signal), ISBN: 978-089747-081-0 • Website: sweetrose.yocumusa.com
grey, but after careful study of reference photos, it was deemed it should be painted dark grey, in this case Vallejo Model Air 71.056 Black Grey. The dielectric panel on the vertical tail was then masked and painted with 71.051 Barley Grey from the same range. Main painting was rounded off with two layers of X-22 Clear to seal and protect the paint from subsequent decaling and
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weathering. Although debatable, this modeller chose to apply clear varnish over the Alclad metallic shades, as the desired final finish was not overly shiny.
Colour and grime As mentioned before, the decal sheet offered options for five airframes, all in natural metal. The decals displayed perfect register and colour saturation, and
performed flawlessly with Micro Set and Sol solutions. The only touch-up needed was on the yellow portion of the tail identification band, which received attention with a small brush and Vallejo 70.953 Flat Yellow. After studying reference photos, the decision was made to implement just very light weathering. Korean Sabres did get dirty, but as far as ‘Sweet Rose\
Dreaded Gomboo’ was concerned, the airframe was kept relatively clean, therefore, just a panel line wash was employed. AMMO MIG’s 7423 Metallic Airplanes & Jets Weathering Set was used to good effect with the help of a fine brush. The patina created by the enamel paints acted as a medium to stain several panels, or even to create subtle depth impressions on the fuselage. Several panels were picked out individually, and the effect was reinforced through several applications of enamel washes. To round off the weathering, several dark grey and dark brown inks were airbrushed on the wing surfaces and fuselage. This managed to enhance several structural details and create extra interest. The inks used were ComArt’s 21041 Old Oil and 21031 Blue Grey Smoke. Final assembly comprised the installation
“EDUARD’S OFFERING WAS EXCELLENT ” Panel lines were accentuated with a wash from AMMO MIG’s 7423 Metallic Airplanes & Jets Air Weathering Set.
of several previously finished sub-assemblies such as the undercarriage components, respective doors, canopy, airbrakes and probes. Where possible, this task was accomplished with PVA glue, as this was a non-aggressive medium for the paint finish. The exception was the landing gear legs, which had their mounting structures masked with Maskol, which enabled the use of Tamiya Extra Thin Cement, and the fuel jettison tube, previously painted scarlet and attached with Superglue.
The ultimate Sabre? As far as this modeller is concerned, Eduard’s offering was excellent. The recipe the company has followed for several years remains sound…load an attractive box with quality plastic and add PE and resin to address possible pitfalls or missing detail, and top it off with great colour schemes delivered on a high-quality decal sheet. With
this product, Eduard delivered just that, which enabled troublefree construction, an enhanced cockpit and gorgeous colour scheme. The end result was a journey filled with modelling pleasure and the depiction of a real history-maker.
❚
When cleaning away excess wash, a patina was allowed to create interest on the surface of the wings and fuselage sides.
ComArt Old Oil and Blue Grey Smoke were airbrushed on the aileron and flap joints, as well as other relevant panel lines. This task was performed with the help of a Post-it note for masking.
IN FOCUS F-86 SABRE IN KOREA
Yellow-nosed Sabres were flown by the 12th Squadron, which also operated the F-86F model, designed to carry bombs. This unit flew most of its missions close to the Yalu River. (Robert Hook via Thompson)
ACE-MAKING
BLA DE
The group headquarters was at Johnson AFB, but the 336th sent a small detachment to Kimpo AB under the guidance of Lieutenant Colonel John C Meyer, and it flew its first mission on December 13.
Bogies in sight The first actual MiG versus F-86 engagement took place on December 17, with 336th commanding officer Lt Col Bruce
Hinton being credited for one enemy aircraft. By the end of December, the 4th Group had flown 234 sorties while engaging 76 MiGs, and the final total showed the F-86s had confirmed six MiGs destroyed plus two probables, against just one F-86 lost; a sobering reminder of what was in store for the MiGs until the war ended. By late February 1951, the rush by Chinese ground troops
Warren Thompson recounts the Korean War successes of the legendary F-86
N
orth American’s F-86 was the first massproduced jet fighter in the USAF inventory; its first flight was on October 1, 1947 and it became operational in 1949. When production ended, North American had produced a total of 9,860 units (all models combined. It held its own in the Korean War and populated four fighter/fighterbomber wings to do the job; 4th Wing, 51st Wing, 18th FBW and 8th FBW. It was also used as a photoreconnaissance asset in Korea, but it was the 4th Wing that had the
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honour of being the first to take it into combat in December 1950. On November 8th, 1950, General Hoyt Vandenberg offered to send the 4th Fighter Wing to Korea. The unit’s component squadrons were the 334th stationed at New Castle AFB, 335th at Andrews AFB and the 336th at Dover. The pilots of the 4th were some of the most experienced in operating the Sabre. Their aircraft were loaded on the deck of the USS Cape Esperance and on November 29 it pulled out of San Diego for the two-week trip to Yokosuka, Japan.
Seen at Kimpo AB, shark-mouthed ‘Peg “O” My Heart’ was a member of the 336th Squadron. Note the Rocketeer emblem painted on the side, along with ‘Tiger’ above the teeth. (Jeff Dibrell via Thompson)
IN FOCUS F-86 SABRE IN KOREA
This Sabre is returning from a mission in 1952. The “Rocketeer” emblem on the side shows it's from the 336th FS. This particular aircraft is an F-86E, which had replaced the F-86A. (Houston Tuel via Thompson)
German and Czechoslovakian markings, were a giveaway. Still, the supreme training of the Sabre pilots meant they could hold their own in any dogfight.
A useful upgrade In late July 1951, it was time to ship the older ’A’ models out of Korea, and this duly ushered in the F-86E. The move was due mainly to the Russians and their allies improving their tactics; their timing was
Here’s what the F-86E instrument panel ooked like at the time...state of the art back then. (Walt Copeland via Thompson)
forced the F-86s to operate from Japanese bases. But by the end of April, the 334th and 336th Squadrons were able to commence operations from Suwon AB in South Korea. On May 20, 1951, 50 MiG-15s crossed over the Yalu looking for a fight. There were a few scattered Sabre flights aloft locally and they all converged on that area. Among the F-86 pilots was Captain James Jabara, who had already claimed four MiGs and was close to being the first jet ace of all time. He arrived at the action with one external tank hung up, but that didn’t keep him from entering the fray. He shot down two of the competition, which gave him six kills to become the first jet ace. In an interview with the press, he stated: “The MiGs
have a much higher rate of climb than we do but the dive speed and manoeuvrability is about the same. I’ve never been out-turned by a MiG. But, the MiGs outnumber us by about four-to-one.” On several occasions, a few of the MiGs had their tail units disintegrate or wings sheer off as they took evasive action. Conversely, when some of the F-86s received one or two hits from the MiG’s 23mm shells, these caused horrific damage to the Sabre but most made it back to base. If one shell should hit a vital area, the result would most probably have been a crash. Keep in mind, for more than 18 months since the first encounter, Russian or Warsaw Pact pilots were flying the MiGs and different colour schemes, such as East
Major James P Hagerstrom’s F-86F ‘MiG Poison’ at K-55 in between missions. Hagerstrom was the only ace from the 18th FBW and was also the commander of the 67th Squadron. (Bob Cassatt via Thompson)
An early group of F-86As from the 334th Squadron, parked at Suwon AB in April 1951. (Al Beaty via Thompson)
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IN FOCUS F-86 SABRE IN KOREA
Captain Ken Palmer’s Sabre named ‘My Hutch’ at Suwon AB, waiting to fly another mission. Note the emblem painted on the side indicating the 25th Squadron of the 51st Wing. The horizontal red band on the vertical stabiliser was used by 25th aircraft. (Ken Palmer via Thompson)
One of the 80th FBS’s F-86Fs, flown by Lt Al Shorrt, peels off to the right over South Korea, just after the ceasefire was signed. The 80th was involved in hitting ground targets as the Chinese conducted their last major offensive.
his experiences while flying with the 25th Squadron: “I usually had either Capt Ivan Kincheloe (10th jet ace) or Col Gabreski (8th jet ace) flying on my wing. We spotted three flights of MiGs about 5,000ft below us. We were not pulling any contrails, so they hadn’t spotted us yet. Kinch bagged one as we dove into the middle of their formation. I
so great that many times they could avoid the Sabres, which put them down around Pyongyang. To counter this, a second F-86 wing was needed, but it didn’t arrive until late 1951, at which time Gen Vandenberg ordered the release of 75 F-86Es to form the second Sabre wing. The two squadrons flying F-80s (16th and 25th) would convert to the F-86E. Col Francis S Gabreski, the famous ace from World War Two, would assume command of the 51st Wing. 1st Lt Joe Cannon recalls one of
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came so close to another MiG that I looked him straight in the face and I remember he had a cloth helmet on. It was my turn to go after a MiG with Kinch covering me. The MiG was headed north to try and get across the Yalu. I gave him a three-second burst and he began to burn. Kinch yelled for me to break left. A second later, the MiG
‘Honest John’ was the personal F-86E flown by the 4th Group’s leader, Colonel Walker M ‘Bud’ Mahurin, a former ace with the famed 56th FG ‘Wolfpack’ in World War Two. (Bill Thomas via Thompson)
IN FOCUS F-86 SABRE IN KOREA
shot my oxygen mask right off my face, blew the canopy away and my left wing was half the size of my right one. I punched out over the coast and the MiG set up a gunnery pattern on me coming down in the chute. Some of them came so close to me that they were swinging me horizontal in the chute. Fortunately, I was picked up by a Navy ship and was returned to K-13.” For most of June 1952, MiG encounters were much fewer so
An element of the 335th Squadron approaches MiG Alley in search of MiGs during autumn 1952. This is the beginning of the mission, because their external tanks are still attached. (Karl Dittmer via Thompson)
the new F-86F Sabre. This would allow both wings to keep flying the bombing missions, but this time they would be able to defend themselves properly against the MiG-15 opposition. It was late December 1952, when the 18th Wing moved into a ‘super base’ at Osan (K-55), Korea, with its new Sabres.
First blood The debut combat mission for the 18th was a fighter sweep flown on February 25; this unit’s commanding officer had already scored two kills and when he started flying the F-86F, he picked up three more, which placed him as the 28th jet ace of the war. In the meantime, the 8th FBW
F-86 Korean War MIG-15 Kills The blue nose marking of the F-86 was brought into the 4th Wing in April 1953, and lasted all through 1954, even after it had repaired to bases in Japan. This F-86 was named ‘Hurricane Carol’, belonging to the 336th FS. (CF Harrington via Thompson)
the count for that month was just 20 shot down at a cost of four F-86 Sabres. The 4th Wing was strengthened, mid-1952, when it got rid of its F-86As in favour of new F-86Es. Some of the ‘A’ models were sent to Japan and converted into RF-86As. Furthermore, in July 1952, the 51st Wing took on a new
look when all of its aircraft had the black and silver checkerboard marking painted on their tails. The newest squadron assigned to the 51st was the 39th, which had flown F-51 Mustangs with the 18th Wing. As 1953 approached, a black cloud for the enemy loomed, as the 8th and 18th FBWs would give up their current fighters for
4th Fighter Wing
Air-to air
Air-to-ground
Total
334th Squadron
142.5
0
142.5
335th Squadron
218.5
0
218.5
336th Squadron
116.5
4
120.5 Total 481.5
51st Fighter Wing
Air-to-air
Air-to-ground
Total
16th FIS*
85
0
85
25th FIS
110.5
7
117.5
39th FIS
101
0
101 Total 303.5
Lt James L Thompson’s assigned F-86 named ‘The Huff’ is parked on the 39th Squadron ramp at K-13 in early 1953. He broke through a bunch of MiGs to shoot down a high ranking Russian officer that had a huge Dragon painted down the side of his aircraft. Hence, the Dragon was duly painted on his Sabre. (Bob Moler via Thompson)
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IN FOCUS F-86 SABRE IN KOREA
started transitioning to the F-86F on February 22, 1953 and on April 7 it flew its first fighter sweep along the Yalu River. By this time, the quality of MiG pilots had dropped and many ejected when the first shots were fired. Russia and its satellite countries had also recalled their pilots, so it was mostly Chinese and North Korean flyers left to make a stand. By this stage, and after much preparation, the USAF was ready for one of the biggest experiments of the war. On January 1, 1953,
A 336th Squadron Sabre returns from an escort mission over North Korea. The drop tanks are missing, so it must have encountered MiG-15s during the mission. (Houston Tuel via Thompson)
This F-86 was the personal mount of Col Harrison Thyng, who commanded the 4th Fighter Wing; he poses above his five kill markings – 5th kill on May 22, 1952 – making him the 16th jet ace of the war. (Harrison Thyng via Thompson)
seven F-86Fs were sent to Japan to begin Operation Gun-Val, whereby the Sabres were fitted with 20mm cannon in place of the .50 cal guns. All seven went to Kimpo and attached to the 335th Squadron. Just a handful of the
pilots were allowed to fly them and among these was Lt Col George L Jones, who would make ace while flying the Gun-Val Sabres (he would secure 6.5 kills, with the last two being in the cannon-equipped Sabre, to become the 30th jet ace
of the war. On May 18, one of the most unusual dogfights of the war took place. Six F-86s from the 39th Squadron encountered several MiGs in what should have been a routine flight. As the mêlée ensued, Lt James L Thompson noticed one of the MiGs had a huge Dragon painted down the length of its fuselage. Every time a Sabre would attempt to engage the ‘Dragon MiG’ several others would swarm in to defend it. Lt Thompson waited until all the MiGs were occupied before making his move. After several tight turns and violent manoeuvres, he got
Commanding Officer of the 8th FBG at Suwon, Col Wilmot, had his personal jet ‘Miss Tena’ at the front of the 35th FBS flightline. This was taken in early 1954. (James Carter via Thompson)
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in one long burst into the MiG's engine. The enemy pilot was seen to eject, giving Thompson his first confirmed kill of the war. This incident was recorded in the Star and Stripes News and ensured sensational attention around K-13. It was speculated by USAF officials that a high-ranking Communist general had been flying the MiG. After the mission, one of the groundcrewmen, Airman 2nd Class James W Manley, promptly painted a dragon down the port side of ‘his’ Sabre. It became one of the most colourful fighters in Korea and Thompson would go on to get one more MiG before the war ended. ❚
Pennine Models at Haworth
Large stock of rare items (enquire for details) Broad range of plastic kits available including: • Aircraft both military & civilian • Cars & trucks • Military, armour & softskin • Railways: rolling stock, buildings and people • Scenics and paint • Boats from over the ages • People (including soldiers from romans, vikings to modern day)
Wednesday to Sunday 11am - 5pm 33/35 Mill Hey, Haworth, Keighley BD22 8NQ Tel: 01535 642367
[email protected]
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
Jen Wright delves into her bag of tricks to detail Airfix’s re-released Swordfish
NORTH AFRICAN
A multitude of small pockmarks marred the surfaces of all three major fuselage parts. Airfix is aware of this apparent mould damage, and steps are being taken to remedy the problem. The fuselage part in the background had already been repaired...
...fixing it was simple via paring and scraping with a scalpel. This method was chosen over just sanding, to lessen the chance of losing surface detail.
Airfix Model World
irst released in 2012 to wide acclaim, Airfix’s Swordfish probably needs almost as little introduction
as the real item. Nicknamed ‘Stringbag’ for its ability to carry almost anything, the Swordfish was one of those
Fixing strips of Wet and Dry paper to a wooden skewer, with cyanoacrylate (CA) glue, provided a custom-sized sanding tool for the internal areas. This was used to smooth damaged areas, and remove ejector pin release marks. The complex interior was split into smaller, more manageable, assemblies for painting and adding the PE embellishments. Here, the pilot’s seat was thinned around the edges with a curved scalpel for a better scale appearance.
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INVADER F Much of the added detail on this occasion came from Eduard’s Swordfish Mk.I PE detail set (73432). As well as a small fret of pre-coloured self-adhesive parts, numerous un-coated components were supplied. When completed, the extent of PE enhancement was obvious, and the fact it was so simple to incorporate is a credit to Eduard. As is often the case with its pre-coloured PE, the tone was mismatched slightly in the case of the interior green.
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
FROM BRIGHT TO DRAB For its re-release, Airfix has provided two contrasting schemes, with a pre-war airframe and that flown by Lieutenant Ian Swayne and Sub-Lieutenant (A) J Buxall during the Fleet Air Arm attack on Taranto harbour: • P3992/G5K, 825 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Glorious, 1939 • P4154/4M, 815 Naval Air Squadron, Operation Judgement, HMS Illustrious, 11-12 November 1940
Basic interior colours have been applied. Note the overpainting of the green on the precoloured PE. This was done with a paintbrush and Mr. Color’s C364 Aircraft Gray Green. The pinkish appearance of the fabric interiors represents bleed-through of the ‘red oxide’ coating.
Assembling delightfully realistic instrument panels with Eduard’s pre-coloured and self-adhesive PE is so simple, it’s almost embarrassing! The finishing touch was a drop of Microscale’s Micro Krystal Klear into each dial for a glass effect.
enigmas of World War Two. Regarded as obsolete before the outset of hostilities, it proved so versatile that it outlasted, and outshone, its own replacement; serving with distinction until the war’s end. Since AMW has
previously featured the model in standard guise, the brief was to add detail and see where the kit could be taken. To that end, a large Eduard photo-etched (PE) brass set (73432) was added, along with a set of anti-submarine bombs from CMK (CMK7352) and Mark 1 Ltd’s superb markings (see panel). The diminutive size of the work so far is gauged easily from my intruding digits. This aircraft operated from an escort carrier and from desert strips in North Africa, so some attention was paid to effect a suitably grubby internal appearance.
“SCRATCH -BUILDING HAS QUITE A MYSTERIOUS AIR ” www.airfixmodelworld.com 49
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
Sometimes easy improvements are possible without recourse to after-market items. The over-scale and distorted tailplane struts were removed at this early stage and their mountings were drilled for later replacement with wire. A slight deflection was incorporated onto the elevators.
More PE was added to the engine and the cowls. Despite the tiny size of some parts, they were easy to apply and really accentuated the area. The addition of the strut supports on the forward casing removed the keying system, so care was needed with subsequent alignment. Despite the interior being aligned correctly, it was discovered the forward end of the cockpit floor impeded the lower fuselage part, causing a gap at the sides. This was corrected by sanding the cockpit floor, and removing a raised rib from the hatched area on the lower fuselage.
There were several examples of the surface panel-type detail in the PE set. These kick steps were a good addition and were used as directed, while the access hatch in the nose was recessed slightly into the kit’s surface. This particular Swordfish was fitted with the later, enlarged oil cooler, which wasn’t included in the kit. A piece of plastic card was added to increase the depth, and scribed to represent the fins; with a tiny slice of lead foil for the shield. Note also the raised cowling fasteners were removed, being replaced by circular indentations from a beading tool.
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Deviation from the instructions (for ease of painting), meant all the wings were left separate initially. Snipping the end of the tab as shown allowed the wings to be slid into position later, while 0.3mm wire was set into the leading edge to represent mounts on the real aircraft.
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
STRINGBAG SCHEMES Decals were provided in the form of a ‘Baker’s Dozen’ set from Mark 1 Ltd. These come with a beautifully illustrated booklet depicting each scheme in colour as usual, but with the added bonus of a photo of the actual aircraft featured in each instance, plus other reference images. The chosen livery represented an aircraft from 833 NAS during Operation Torch in North Africa. The photograph supplied with the markings depicted the aircraft at rest on a desert airstrip, although other sources indicate it was also operated from HMS Biter, a Royal Navy escort carrier. www.4pluspublications.com
Work on the main wing parts was restricted to sanding the surface to remove any blemishes and adding PE trim tabs. The panel line denoting the leading edge slat was also deepened, while the lower wings were drilled for all the pylons before assembly. Six weapon pylons and a pair of light bomb carriers were supplied in the kit, but the latter were replaced completely with PE items, and were an immense improvement, while not being overly tricky to assemble. Folded sway braces for the pylons were also a worthwhile upgrade.
“MORE PE WAS ADDED TO THE ENGINE AND THE COWLS” www.airfixmodelworld.com 51
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
With all parts ready for paint (bar masking), it still looked like a kit! Biplanes can be very tricky to paint and decal effectively if they are fully assembled. Thankfully, Airfix’s product is so well engineered that it’s perfectly sensible to paint it at this stage.
Care was necessary when masking, to avoid damage to the fragile interior. Here, a mixture of tape, Blu Tack and Maskol was employed, with Bare Metal Foil for the transparencies. The three skewers were the perfect size to use as a handle when inserted into the fuselage.
MODEL SPEC
Interior Gray Green was applied to the canopy first, and as a gentle pre-shade for the underside Sky. Mr. Hobby H-74 was added for that accent, and then a quick and rough fin flash was masked and painted.
AMMO MIG Masking Putty acted as a mask for the underside; large pieces of this material can be formed and stretched to cover any shape or size, and took just seconds to do. Mr. Paint’s MRP-117 Dark Slate Grey was added where needed, including the fin, with the previously mentioned fin flash over-sprayed carefully, but left just visible.
Fairey Swordfish Mk.I By:
Airfix
Stock Code:
A04053A
Scale:
1/72
Price:
£18.99
Available from: www.airfix.com
“A LIGHT-COLOURED FILTER WAS USED TO ENHANCE THE PAINT FADING” 52
Airfix Model World
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I
After airbrushing MRP-114 Extra Dark Sea Grey freehand, shading was carried out with lighter ‘shadow shade’ variants of the two colours. After blending with the original tones, this was the result. Tamiya’s XF-21 Sky was used as a darker variant on underside areas.
SCRATCH -BUILT EXTRAS
Like a defence against the dark arts lesson in the Harry Potter books, scratchbuilding has quite a mysterious air. As an avid reader of anything model related, I have studied entire volumes on the subject, and come away none the wiser! My best advice to the modeller is to build an arsenal of apparently useless bits of wire, foil, plastic and leftover PE. These torpedo sights* were bent from fine lead wire (from a fishing shop) via a plan traced onto masking tape from my iPad. A boarding step and tailplane struts were made from 0.5mm brass wire (www. albionalloys.co.uk). In contrast, the wing strut-mounted ASV aerials in the finished shots were produced with the wire stripped from thin computer cabling. Little touches of finesse such as this help to make models look like tiny versions of the real thing, rather than toy-like representations. *Observant readers will note that only at this late stage was it realised the centre section struts were not meant to be painted Sky!
Mr. Paint (www.mrpaint.sk) shades made a debut for the author on this model, since the colours in question are quite hard to obtain in acrylic form. They performed very well, with good adherence to the surface, drying to a smooth surface, which was very tough and quite glossy.
After a light coat of X-22 Clear, the decals were added. These performed wonderfully, being very thin and flexible, and conformed to the surface of the model with minimal effort. Kit decals were used for the wing walkways.
Since a faded and dusty appearance was desired, a light-coloured filter was used to enhance the paint fading already achieved. AMMO MIG’s 1502 Dark Grey for White was applied by brush as shown. This was left to dry naturally; no buffing or cleaning-up was required. www.airfixmodelworld.com 53
ADVANCED BUILD SWORDFISH Mk.I A combination of AMMO MIG’s A.MIG 1614 Neutral Brown wash and AK Interactive’s Streaking Grime colour were employed to depict oil and other fluid stains and streaks on the underside. This was applied by brush and blended or feathered into streaks as required, not forgetting other dirty areas such as the hand-holds and tread plates on the undercarriage. The final stage of weathering was minor shading. This comprised a roughly equal mix of brown and black paint, diluted to around 90%. Being so thin, the opacity of the colour is easy to control, so smudges, dirt and exhaust streaks can be applied. It’s also useful for the shading of panel lines, but wasn’t in this case.
RIGGING ESSENTIALS The most likely thing to deter a modeller from building a biplane has to be rigging; all too often viewed as a black art. It’s actually very simple if this method is followed. The material on the bobbin is Uschi van der Rosten Lycra thread (available from Albion Hobbies), in the standard gauge. This is the biggest it produces, but is still less than half the thickness of Aeroclub thread, and because of that, it’s far more suitable for smaller-scale models. Apply the thread by first making a tiny dot of CA in the required location, and then offering one end of the thread into it. When the glue has cured (with or without accelerator), stretch the thread to the second attachment point and repeat the process. It does seem sometimes as though six hands would be helpful, but with practice this method is all but foolproof.
Once happy with the weathering, a final matt varnish coat was applied. Another debut appearance was made here by Mr. Hobby’s H-20, which, when thinned 50:50 with isopropyl alcohol, performed admirably. Because of the earlier diversion from the instructions, aligning the wings was slightly more troublesome than it would otherwise have been, bearing in mind the excellent self-jigging arrangement provided by Airfix. In lieu of this, Lego bricks were used to hold the lower wings while the glue set.
Safe landings After finding the mould damage at the beginning of the project, there were concerns as to whether this kit would build well; having had previous good experiences with the floatplane version. In the event, the lack of comment about fit issues should be mute testament to the quality of this experience. No filler was used or required anywhere, with nothing more than a hint of Mr. Surfacer used to finish seams. The addition of the Eduard PE, and the brilliant decal set from
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Mark I gilded what was already a great kit, and were very worthwhile additions. Adding the resin weapons was a personal choice, as the kit supplied bombs, smoke floats and a torpedo. Since one of the major aspects of the Swordfish’s role during Operation Torch was antisubmarine warfare, the addition of the depth charges as armament seemed appropriate. All in all, this is still an excellent kit, which is entirely suitable for ❚ first-time biplane modellers.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
Rallying’s all-conquering VW Polo R WRC is put through its paces with Ian Granger’s build of Belkits’ comprehensive 1/24 scale kit
V
olkswagen Motorsport began competition in what is now the World Rally Championship (WRC) in 1978, employing different versions of the Golf until the company’s withdrawal in 1990. With the acquisition of the Skoda marque, VW returned in the late 2000s with the Skoda
Fabia in S2000 guise. In recent years, Belgian rally kit specialist Belkits had released a 1/24 kit of this car, so it was no surprise it would continue the partnership with its latest offering, VW’s Polo R WRC. The real vehicle has dominated the sport since its full introduction in 2013, winning a record number of rallies and three
The body was suspended on a Tamiya Spray Works Painting Stand for the application of Vallejo’s 73.600 White Primer, airbrushed at 15psi (1.03 bar).
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consecutive constructors’ titles and drivers’ championships for Frenchman Sébastien Ogier. This trend continued during the 2016 season, with a fourth ‘double’ on the horizon!
The people’s choice With its world-beating record, it would have been a travesty
had a kit of this notable vehicle not been released. Replicas of the cars driven by another wellknown driver named Séb (Loeb) were produced by Heller (Citroën Xsara, C4 and DS3) during his decade of dominance, so this was a ‘must have’. When AMW’s sample arrived, the builder was amazed at the quality on offer. A comprehensive haul of 133 parts, with crisp, flash-free modern mouldings filled the large (and deep) box. The body shell was supplied in its own separate mini-box, to avoid crushing of the delicate roof pillars. A further seven bags contained a runner each; five in white, one clear for the glazing, and another chrome-plated item for the headlamp inserts. There was a bag containing vinyl items, five tyres and two under-body protection flaps, to simulate ‘kaylan’ stone guards. Two small photo-etched (PE) metal frets provided various grilles, seatbelt hardware and the brake disc rotor faces. Comprehensive decals for the 2013 Rallye De France (Alsace) included options for all three competitors (Ogier, Latvala and Mikkelsen). A 20-page full-colour instruction booklet supplied photographs of the real car(s) during the rally in question. The final items came in a Ziploc bag, with scale metal aerials and supports for the night-stage lamps, plus self-adhesive VW emblems and mirror glass…what a fantastic effort! However, during construction it was realised a was bag missing from the review sample. This should have contained black fabric for the seat belts and
Holes for the damper reservoirs and rear anti-roll bars were drilled in the wheel arches, despite the unhelpful lack of locating marks on the mouldings.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
Rather than use a spray can, or decanted paint, Tamiya’s standard X-2 White acrylic was selected for the main body shell top coat.
Tuner Model Factory Twill Gradients Carbon Fiber Decal Black/Silver (Small size), simulated the door card coverings.
The front ‘grille’ and rear venturi panel (shrouding the exhaust) were also treated with carbon-fibre decals, on this occasion from Pit Wall.
Scale Motorsport’s Carbon Fiber Plain Weave Black (SKU 1424), adhered well to the complex shapes of the double-wicker wing, which dominated the rear of the car.
white (paper-style) self-adhesive masks for the glazed items, but this didn’t detract from the build, as they were replaced easily from the spares box.
the paint still wet and then re-measuring. This was felt to be an unnecessary process, especially when considering the attention to detail on the rest of the kit’s components. It was decided early in the build not to fit the rally pod lights, so the holes in the bonnet were not drilled. In a further deviation from the instructions, the
Shakedown
MODEL SPEC
Locating holes for the aerial mounts required careful drilling in the roof of the body, but thankfully, Belkits provided moulded dimples as a guide. Unfortunately, the same could not be said of the locating VW Polo R WRC – 2013 WRC Champion (Rally de France) By:
Belkits
Stock Code:
BEL-005
Scale:
1/24
Price:
£39.99
points for the hydraulic damper reservoirs and anti-roll bars in the chassis/wheel arches. The instructions gave ‘precise’ measurements but actually, a degree of estimation was required. The easiest method was to mark the approximate locations, by painting the part ‘pins’ in black, touching the areas to be drilled with
external roof vent was attached to the main body moulding, before primer application. The body was mounted on a Tamiya Spray Works Painting Stand, for application of Vallejo’s 73.600 White Primer, which highlighted any areas of imperfection, such as mould lines or sink marks Despite being moulded in white styrene, components on
OVIDED R P S T E R F L A T E “M S VARIOUS GRILLE ”
Available from: The Hobby Company, www.hobbyco.net
www.airfixmodelworld.com 57
INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
E DECAL R IB F N O B R “CA SED ON THE WAS U ILLE” FRONT GR
several runners required painting in tones at the opposite end of the spectrum. To this end, 73.602 Black Primer was airbrushed at a relatively low 15 psi (1.03 bar) over the appropriate parts, mainly those comprising the suspension and interior details.
Service
were set aside to dry for almost a week before subsequent handling, as acrylic paint can be prone to marking when it’s still not hardened entirely. At this point, the builder decided to tackle one of the more onerous tasks, with Tamiya masking tape employed to construct templates on the rear wing/ spoiler, front grille, rear exhaust shroud/aero, and door cards. Once complete, different styles of carbon-fibre decal sheet were applied. The double-wicker rear spoiler received Scale Motorsport’s SKU1424 Plain Weave (www.scalemotorsport. com) as this conformed better to the complex contours, but Pit Wall’s 24C-1 carbon fibre decal (www.pitwall.fr) was used on the front grille and rear exhaust-shrouding venturi. Lastly, Tuner Model Factory’s T2M-6011-A Twill Weave (www. tunermodelmanufactory.com) was applied to the door cards. The seats were primed in black, but it was decided to make them appear more realistic by applying Tenco Proto Spray Fabric, from a ‘rattle’ can. Tamiya tape masked the rear shells of the seats, so the kit’s carboneffect decals could be applied to a smooth surface later. Other items receiving the ‘fabric’ treatment were the dash and grip areas of the steering wheel circumference. This operation proved extremely messy and it was advisable to carry it out away from the modelling bench, in the fresh air. Replacement black ‘cloth’
Of the two PE frets supplied, one (containing various grilles) was airbrushed with Vallejo 73.602 Black Primer, while the fog lamp blanks also received carbon-fibre decals.
The chassis underside and interior tub were also primed in white, with Tamiya X-2 White Gloss selected as a top coat for the body shell and chassis. Several light layers were applied, to provide a high shine, and the body and other components
Seat hardware was fabricated with the kit’s PE buckles, combined with Tuner Model Factory’s self-adhesive black seatbelt cloth.
Alclad’s ALC-111 Magnesium, along with decals for car #7, decorated the superb vinyl tyres, before the Michelin logos were sealed with Johnson’s Klear.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
Cooling ducts for the front brakes were a realistic addition to the suspension components.
Tan-coloured under-body fuel cells straddled the transmission tunnel, while the rear differential was housed within the suspension unit.
A representative engine sump, complete with securing bolts, was moulded at the front of the chassis.
The exhaust had an unorthodox location above the suspension, unlike a road car, since the suspension components are more commonly changed on a rally machine.
seatbelts were selected from aftermarket offerings; in this case, Tuner Model Factory's T2M2011-B1, which came as a 145 x 85mm self-adhesive panel. A series of 2mm-wide strips were cut, and then attached to the kit’s PE buckles and fixings. The ‘Schroth’ harness manufacturer logos were sourced from the same company’s T2M-6001; being self-adhesive, they sat well on the belts. PVA glue was employed to attach the PE mounts and belt cutters, before the seats were put aside for later.
by Finn Jari-Matti Latvala was selected, primarily as most modellers would favour Ogier’s machine, and secondly as the
All the logos and sponsor decals were supplied, so at this stage, one had to select which vehicle to build. Car #7, as driven
French tricolour flag was slightly out of register. The chassis components were painted and constructed as
Scrutineering Belkits supplied five wheels, including a spare. Tamiya X-10 Gun Metal was suggested as the ideal tone, so for added realism Alclad ALC-111 Magnesium, airbrushed in thin coats, proved more than adequate. The cleverly designed vinyl tyres allowed assembly in just the correct orientation, simplifying the task greatly. www.airfixmodelworld.com 59
INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
Unfortunately, most of the complex chassis and suspension detail would be hidden after the under-body protection was fitted.
A complex roll-cage arrangement dominated the interior, and proved challenging to construct, due to its fine tolerances, multiple joins and locating points.
The seatbelts attached to the rear of the cage, as with most modern WRC machinery; however, the spare wheel fixing arrangement was unusual and did not match references. The rally car’s cockpit built into a rather neat sub-assembly, and was practically a minikit in its own right.
per the instructions, with no drama whatsoever. To accentuate any moulded detail, the front brake cooling ducts were drybrushed lightly with Citadel Codex Grey. The exhaust muffler
and tail pipe received a layer of Mr. Color Super Metallic SM05 Super Titanium, which was buffed to a brilliant shine once fully dry. PE ‘faces’ for the brake disc rotors breathed life
PEN R E IN L T N E M MAIN “0.5MM TPUIG E H T D E T A ACCEN INES” L T U H S Y D O B
into these items by covering the plain styrene surfaces, and were then muted with a wash of XF-56 Metallic Grey. Careful painting of the suspension springs with red and
yellow, followed by a light wash of Citadel Badab Black, really set these components apart. A similar wash treatment was applied to the integrally moulded engine sump, highlighting the raised bolts. However, it was a shame that so much detail would be hidden by the under-body protection. The only slightly taxing part of this stage proved to be the front suspension, and the builder’s attempts to fit the steering rack components. It was slightly fiddly (because of the multi-part design), when compared to contemporary kits.
Time control Returning to the ‘office’, construction proceeded smoothly for the most part, but the spare wheel mounting was slightly awkward. The kit’s arrangement, with the wheel fitted upside down to the floor, with an unusual ‘bag’ in the centre, could not be found in any references. Trial and error revealed the best way to achieve
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
success was to first fit the holding straps to the PE ‘eyes’, then glue these in position from the opposite side with cyanoacrylate glue. Several splendid features were provided, including mapreading lights (fitted to the roll cage), corrugated ducting under the co-driver’s dash and even a cordless drill (mounted behind the driver’s seat on the real car, but not shown on the instructions). There were items, such as the jack and battery, illustrated at ‘optional’ mounting points that may, or may not have been accurate. During these stages, few problematic areas emerged; tolerances for the multi-part roll cage were very fine, and this demanded a patient approach to assembly, ensuring all components were aligned properly. This was also true when building the steering column. Another pitfall was the forward location of the shift lever, which aligned naturally to fit in the incorrect location under the dash, forcing it through the wrong hole in the bulkhead, until the builder’s initial error was discovered! Notwithstanding these minor issues, cockpit detail was nothing short of remarkable, and a rival for any of Tamiya’s Impreza and Lancer Evolution rally kits from the 1990s and 2000s. Unusually for a kit of this genre, the wheels and tyres fixed directly onto the brake disc hubs–
these were cemented in place, rather than connecting via poly-caps to allow rotation. With everything aligned and seated correctly, the chassis was then mated to the cockpit interior. Before continuing work on the body, the black surrounds for all the glazed parts required painting…Citadel’s Abbadon Black was chosen for this task. As mentioned previously, masking templates were absent from the review sample, so these were fashioned from Tamiya tape instead; a task that posed no real issues for the more experienced modeller. Fine work was required on the black areas of the headlamp inserts, to ensure the correct chrome items were left unpainted, but the rewarded effort was evident.
Special stage Once the detail painting had cured sufficiently, it was time to apply the colourful decals. Featuring little carrier film and acceptable print-register (other than certain national flag markings), these provided a pleasing look to the 2013 works car. The decals adhered well to the complex curves of the kit, with the aid of Microscale’s
decal solvents, as this was just strong enough to soften the markings, but without causing damage. Carbon-effect decal was employed around the bonnet vents in thin strips too. Judicious use of an old hairdryer helped to speed the process, as it provided a gentle heating effect where necessary. After the decals had dried fully, careful drawing with a Pentel 0.5mm pigment liner
Belkits did not provide fully detailed locations for several items, including the jack and battery, making them estimations rather than exact representations.
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INTERMEDIATE BUILD VW POLO R WRC
The rally car’s aggressive stance was apparent after the completed chassis was attached to the upper structure.
Decaling proceeded relatively easily, with the markings adhering well to the complex body contours, helped by gentle heating from a hairdryer and Microscale setting solutions. A combination of carbon-fibre decals for the bonnet cooling mesh cut-out surround, and chrome headlamps, were particularly effective in completing an accurate rendition of the vehicle’s appearance.
The detailed underside was covered by a combination of solid plates and ‘kaylan’ stone guards…in a neat touch, the latter were supplied in black vinyl.
pen accentuated the main body shut lines. With the main glazing held in situ with PVA on the roof and
side panels, to avoid fogging the clear parts, the fit was excellent and there were locating pins to aid alignment. The interior of
OMPLETE C E H T S A W “THIS GE FOR THE RALLY PACKA LLER” CAR MODE
the roof vent and chrome-plated plastic front and rear lamp inserts, and the radiator with its PE grille, were also attached
at this stage. Again, deviating from the instructions, the lower chassis/interior assembly was clipped onto the body, rear first. The fit was snug, and at one point felt as though something was bound to snap, but fortunately all ended well. Completing this operation out of sequence protected the finish, as the chassis became available for handling during the final build, rather than the body, plus the rather brutal method of attaching the body avoided damage to any delicate parts.
Flying ‘Finnish’ Penultimate work on Latvala’s car included the use of X-27 Clear Red on the rear lamp covers, while delicate painting was required for the black backing circle on the rear hatch VW logo. The latter raised the question (as the decals were otherwise comprehensive) of would it have hurt to include this particular item? Before the small fittings were added, increasingly fine grades of Tamiya Polishing
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Belkits’ handy pre-cut metal rods were a superb choice for the communication aerials, which had drill location points for their bases moulded into the roof.
compound gave the body a deep, satisfying lustre. Unfortunately, the under-body protection plates hid all that lovely chassis detail, but was required for accuracy. Finally, the various roof aerials, metal stickers/logos, grilles, wipers and remaining glazed items were all fitted with PVA where necessary. Notably, the main front intercooler/radiator grille required careful bending at its extremities to ensure a proper fit. As the kit’s body fasteners appeared rather flat, they were replaced with Tuner Model Factory’s T2M-5013 Hood Pins (Type C). Last, but by no means least, the prominent rear doublewicker spoiler was attached, completing the model.
We love V-dub! So how does one summarise such an important kit of an allconquering subject? This was the complete package for the rally car modeller, with excellent quality at an affordable price. It contained many after-market parts supplied as standard and an excellent subject choice. Although not aimed at the absolute novice, the fit and general quality should not deter someone with just a few previous automotive builds under their belt. Belkits is on a winner with this offering, and having been supplied with its next release, a 1970s Ford Escort RS1600 Mk.1 (BEL007), it won’t be long before it finds its way ❚ onto the modelling bench!
The VW logo was supplied as a self-adhesive item, but the kit’s body fasteners were replaced with Tuner Model Factory Hood Pins, as the former appeared rather flat.
Similar upgrades were applied to the vehicle’s rear, but it was a shame the circular backing for the VW logo wasn’t supplied as a decal, as this required careful painting with matt black.
PHOTO FOCUS VW POLO R WRC
swagen lk o V c e p s 4cess a 201 d. c a o t e t a al of Spee iv tun t r s o e f F s d a o w AMW 16 Goodwo 0 2 e panion h t m t o a c t C c R e f W r e p Polo R rovide the p s t o h s il g These deta est offerin t la ’ s it lk e ild of B for the bu
Red Bull’s driver, Jari-Matti Latvala, was happy to pose with his ‘mobile office’. (All photos Ian Grainger)
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PHOTO FOCUS VW POLO R WRC
Close study of the headlamp units reveals the various reflectors and LEDs fitted. Note how these lack a black surround as seen on the 2013 schemes.
Points of interest for modellers; the tail light cluster design, location of the rear hatch fastener and alignment differences of the main body and bumper shells.
The bonnet cooling vents comprise wire mesh, held in place by twill-weave carbonfibre surrounds. These interior views were shot through the plexi-glass windows, since the car was locked and the driver had no key!
The huge, tarmac-specification brake discs and Alcon callipers were visible behind the multi-spoke forged magnesium rims. The side panels and vanes of the rear wing had a prominent carbon-fibre weave pattern. www.airfixmodelworld.com 65
PHOTO FOCUS VW POLO R WRC
A carbon-fibre blanking panel fitted over the lower fog lamps on the front of the car.
The complex curves of the double-wicker wing, which dominates the rear of the car.
The striking 2016 livery differed from that of 2013, as featured in this issue’s build, but 2015/2016 versions were announced by Belkits at the time of writing. The #97 sticker was for Goodwood only.
The rear under-body aerodynamic shroud was also fashioned from carbon fibre. The triangular panel next to the a-pillar was fashioned from carbon-fibre, while the door mirrors were colour coded, with red for the driver.
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Airfix Model World
B-17G FLYING FORTRESS Key Publishing’s first reference book in the new Combat Machines series is a detailed 84-page study of the famous B-17G bomber, timed perfectly for the release of Airfix’s new 1/72 kit of the type. Written by Malcolm V Lowe, the development and history of the B-17G, including its post-war service are covered in full with rare black and white (and colour) photos, more than 30 specially commissioned colour profiles, a two-page cutaway drawing and walk-round images of a restored aircraft. This is a vital research and reference tool for modellers and aviation enthusiasts alike, and seeks to correct erroneous information published in other books. Besides offering vital material about the aircraft itself, Combat Machines B-17G also explores the flight crews, their clothing and Medal of Honor awards, as well as missions flown by the RAF and USAAF’s numbered air forces.
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28/10/2016 15:59
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
Tiny
Dancer Mike Grant proves that great things come in small packages, with Brengun’s 1/72 Zlin Z-50
T
he Czech-built Zlin Z-50 is perhaps most widely recognised as having been flown by The Flying Bulls aerobatic team, sponsored by energy drink manufacturer Red Bull. Ultra-manoeuvrable and with an exceptional roll rate, this little sports aircraft achieved great success in
Additional after-market products by Brengun were used on the model: vac-form canopy (BRL72101), photo-etched brass details (BRL72099) and paint masks (BRL72098).
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aerobatic competitions. Brengun’s kit represents the L/ LR/LS versions, for which five decal options are supplied (Red Bull markings not being one of them). The parts are moulded in an unusual tan-coloured plastic, reminiscent of AZ Model’s kits. Panel lines are recessed and the detail overall is quite
sharp, though some of it looks as if it originated from handtooling rather than the exact precision of CAD engineering. The injection-moulded canopy is thick but clear, and resin wheels are supplied along with a simple photo-etched (PE) brass fret. Several additional upgrade sets are also available from Brengun, and these were incorporated into the build. A much more extensive PE package provided additional cockpit and undercarriage details, the vacformed canopywas thinner and less distorted than the kit part, and vinyl paint masks enabled the complex silver and redstriped scheme, common to this particular aircraft, to be reproduced with (comparative) ease.
Living in a bubble The large bulbous canopy of the Z-50 provided a perfect view of the cockpit, and fortunately Brengun didn’t skimp in this area. Its two-part seat needed minor neatening, and the PE belts were discarded in favour of tape items, referring to photos of the real aircraft to determine the configuration. These were painted blue, as was the edge of the seatback cushion, also fashioned from several layers of masking tape. References showed the sidewalls to be an unusual greenish metallic colour. An initial coat of Alclad Polished Aluminium was followed by a light over-sprayed mix of Tamiya X-23 Clear Blue with a hint of X-26 Clear Orange, which matched the photos quite well. Brengun’s after-market PE set yielded further details, such as a raised plinth behind the seat,
The colour of the plastic and reproduction of the detail was reminiscent of AZ Model’s kits. Panel lines were recessed and crisp with it.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
Basic sidewall detail was moulded on the fuselage halves which, in keeping with many short-run kits, had no locating pins.
Tamiya Bending Pliers were ideal for forming the three-dimensional PE parts, such as this box behind the pilot’s seat.
To hollow the rear of the nose bulges it was necessary to saw off the cowling, which was carried out before the wings were attached.
MODEL SPEC
control levers and very delicate rudder pedals. Acetate film printed with gauges was also included (although I mislaid this and had to create a replacement), which was painted white on its rear face then glued behind the PE control panel. The completed panel was then glued onto the face of the styrene housing. In common with many shortrun kits, there were no locating pins on most parts, so testing the fit of the various cockpit
PE seat harnesses were included on the kit-supplied fret, but they were substituted with tape items. The instrument panel was a sandwich of PE front, film instruments and plastic fascia.
Zlin Z-50 LS ‘Golden Age’ By:
Brengun
Stock Code:
BRP72018
Scale:
1/72
Price:
€12.09
Available from: Brengun, www.brengun.cz
“Panel lines are recessed and the detail overall is quite sharp” www.airfixmodelworld.com 69
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
Decal options • OK-IRF, Ivan Tuč Tuček (silver/red) • OK-IRG, Ing Petr Jirmus (silver/red) • DDR-WTB (silver/red) • DDR-WTA, Ralf Wandzich, 1988 (silver/red) • SP-AUA, Janusz Kasperek, 1982 (red/white/blue)
without modification?) Once a good fit had been achieved, the fuselage was glued together.
“For a model with a 4 ½in (11.4cm) wingspan, it demanded much work”
A pointed grinding bit in a motor-tool quickly opened and thinned the solid rear walls of the bulges.
Injection-moulded undercarriage legs were replaced with this more true-toscale brass item from the aftermarket PE set. Strengthening strips were added from thin portions of masking tape.
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Airfix Model World
Cutting off one’s nose…
elements into the fuselage required masking tape and blobs of Blu Tack to hold things in place during dry-runs. In doing so it became apparent that the instrument panel/housing was too wide for the aperture, preventing the fuselage halves from mating properly. Carving away a section of the raised sidewall detail, and sanding the actual part resolved this, but unfortunately it also meant snipping away part of the PE panel (shouldn’t an aftermarket part supplied by the manufacturer for its own kit, fit
One of the distinguishing features of the Z-50L series is the prominent cowling bulges, which are open at the rear on the actual aircraft. Presumably due to moulding restrictions they were solid on Brengun’s kit, leading to the decision to saw off the nose and open them. It wasn’t a straight cut; the rear lower edge of the cowling was at a slight angle, so this was achieved by sawing vertically from the top, part way down, then sawing at an angle from below until it separated. A grinding bit in a Dremel motor-tool opened and thinned the edges of the bulges. The small nose intake grille (part 16), though, not only wouldn’t fit in its intended location, but was not
The level of cockpit detail is evident here, as well as the unusual green-tinged metallic colour.
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
An initial coat of Tamiya White Fine Surface Primer was applied to the airframe. Due to the complex masking required for the fuselage striping, the horizontal stabilisers were left off.
Decanted from the rattle can, Tamiya AS-12 Bare Metal Silver airbrushed superbly and formed a robust initial coat.
Vinyl masks were a huge help in achieving the complicated paint scheme, although most of the fine straight stripes were distorted and were replaced with masking tape strips.
Reference photos showed varying tones of metal, which was replicated by masking and airbrushing selected panels with Alclad Aluminium.
representative of the real item, so was omitted. But at this stage, the two holes for the exhaust pipes were also drilled. The one-piece lower wing fitted positively with the fuselage, needing just minor work to fairin the rear edge. After a little sanding at the wing root edges, both upper wing halves also fitted well, though the trailing edges were unacceptably thick. Unfortunately, thinning these would inevitably remove the fine raised rib detail on the control surfaces, so it was decided to sand the underside edge alone, leaving the topside detail untouched. The latter could have been reinstated with dozens of tiny lengths of stretched sprue, but the easy path was taken and they were left smooth. Again, typical of short-run models, there were no locating tabs on the horizontal stabilisers; they simply butt-joined to the base of the tail. Fortunately, they were small and light enough to require no reinforcement but because of the complex paint scheme though they were left off until later.
Styrene parts were included for the undercarriage legs, but the additional PE set included a more true-to-scale brass part, which had to be bent to shape carefully. Small ridges on the legs
were supplied as tiny strips of brass, about 0.25mm wide, which required bending twice and gluing in place. I didn’t even need to attempt this to know it was far beyond my patience threshold.
Instead, thin strips of Tamiya tape were wrapped around the legs, trimmed to size and coated with thin cyanoacrylate (CA) glue to seal them. Brengun also provided the
www.airfixmodelworld.com 71
INTERMEDIATE BUILD ZLIN Z-50
option of spatted/unspatted wheels, the latter being resin items with well-cast hub detail.
Seeing red
Brengun’s masks fitted the model well and formed a good seal; just a few areas required supplementary masking with tape.
Rather than attempt to paint the whole aircraft in one session, the upper wings were painted first, followed by the undersides and finally the fuselage stripes. Parafilm was used to protect large areas efficiently.
The Zlin’s wing under-surfaces were a negative image of the upper surfaces…red was transposed with silver and vice versa.
“The paint scheme involved many hours of masking and painting”
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Airfix Model World
Four of the decal schemes in the box were natural metal with a complex pattern of sweeping red curves on all surfaces, a difficult livery made even more demanding by the model’s small size. Thankfully, Brengun’s paint mask set simplified matters greatly, although it demanded concentration to avoid mixing up the red and silver areas, particularly since the colours were transposed from upper to lower surfaces. Tamiya AS-12 Bare Metal Silver was decanted from the aerosol and airbrushed on the whiteprimed model. Once dry, the airframe was covered in Parafilm masking material, select panels were cut out with a scalpel, then airbrushed Alclad Polished Aluminium. Masking and painting the whole model in one session would almost certainly have led to mistakes, so it was approached a section at a time. The upper wings were masked and painted first, the vinyl masks fitting where they should and forming a tight seal on the surface. The only shortcoming of the masking set was that all the fine, straight stripes were distorted and wavy, but it wasn’t a huge problem to replace these with thin strips of masking tape. Tamiya X-7 Red, diluted with Mr.Color Leveling thinner, was chosen for the main colour. As noted, the underside colours were a reversed image of the uppers. The aftermarket set provided masks for both silver and red areas for the entire aircraft, which was
useful but mentally demanding when applying them! Slight mismatches in the fit of the masks were supplemented with tape and Parafilm. Painting the fuselage was perhaps the most difficult due to the double red stripes, and the fact that the nose was separate…I honestly can’t remember my logic in not re-attaching the nose before this stage. Two of the masks were cut to the wrong size because of this, requiring some freehand cutting of Parafilm masks on the cowling. The decal sheet was printed beautifully, though. As an example of Brengun’s dedication to accuracy, a separate green ink was printed just on the tiny manufacturer logos for the prop blades. Comprehensive stencilling was also included, although most of it was omitted from the model in the interest of visual simplicity.
Detailed denouement Many fragile items left off for painting could now be attached. PE trim tabs and actuators on the control surfaces; exhaust pipes cut from hypodermic tube and blackened in a candle
flame; plunge-moulded styrene scoop intakes on the forward fuselage; whip aerial from stretched sprue; red and whitestriped pitot on the port wing; the assembled and painted propeller and finally, the PE wingtip angleof-incidence indicators. With so many protuberances it was difficult to handle the model without snapping something, so the Zlin was attached to a small display base. For a model with a 4 ½in (11.4cm) wingspan, it demanded much work, though not due to any shortcomings of the kit. There was plenty of detail, especially in the cockpit, and the paint scheme involved many hours of masking and painting. Whether the kit represents good value for money depends on one’s criteria. With the additional cost of the aftermarket sets, it’s a fairly expensive proposition for a model this size. Conversely, if value is measured by dividing the overall cost by the number of hours spent building it, then it becomes much more reasonable. I enjoyed the project, but if I ever attempt that marathon masking job again, I’ll buy myself a can of ❚ Red Bull…
Due to the complexity of the paint scheme and to facilitate masking, the horizontal stabilisers were not attached until the final stages. Comprising five parts (the spinner came in two), the prop assembly required care in aligning the individual blades correctly.
Aerobatic aircraft tend to be small and light for manoeuvrability, and Brengun’s model captures the Zlin’s compact design very well.
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ON THE SHELF BOOKS
DETERMINED TO FIGHT
Mosquito Attack! By: Tor Idar Larsen and Finn Eriksrud ISBN: 978-1-78155-311-4 Price: £9.29 Format: 157 x 236mm Web: www.fonthillmedia.com The efforts of some combatants to enter World War Two were extraordinary and this book provides a fine example. Finn Eriksrud was
so determined to play his part after the invasion of Norway that he tried twice to join the Allies. Even then, the final route was circuitous in the extreme, and involving a trip via Istanbul, Baghdad and Bombay to Canada, where he trained to be a bomber pilot and eventually converted to fly Mosquitos with the RAF. The book recounts how Finn was posted to Leuchars in Scotland, from where he and his navigator flew dangerous reconnaissance missions over the North Sea to the Norwegian coast. High attrition rates meant that Finn was the only remaining pilot from the original squadron. His Mosquito was eventually damaged in combat, forcing the crew to ditch close to Norway; Finn spent the rest of the war as a POW. This is a fascinating book. It’s easy to read and offers great descriptions of the missions flown and the hardships faced by flight crews. Even after capture, there are some intriguing insights into life as a POW before eventual liberation by the Russians. GT
SENIOR SERVICE HUES
British and Commonwealth Warship Camouflage of WWII Volume 2 By: Malcolm Wright ISBN: 978-1-84832-253-0 Price: £30 Format: 208 x 262mm Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk The first volume in this series focused on various types of Royal Navy vessels, such as destroyers, minesweepers, frigates and coastal craft; it was a splendid and useful work, hindered purely by the small size of its excellent colour illustrations. Thankfully, publisher Seaforth has listened to the feedback and Volume 2 offers larger artwork,
160 pages
191 pages
this time centred on battleships and aircraft carriers. Author Malcolm Wright offers a tantalising array of colour profiles and plan views, all with informative captions that explain colour usage and changes in superstructure/ weaponry, after refits. Opening the book is an interesting text on camouflage schemes/patterns, and individual colours and their applications, and then there follows a page of colour chips with official names and codes (where applicable). There’s also a page full of symbols to explain which aircraft are represented on the ships, and the same for offensive/defensive weaponry. The latter is particularly useful for modellers, especially those new to the genre. The choice of vessels is wide and varied, with famous names such as Eagle rubbing shoulders with King George V and Rodney, and lesser-known ships. There’s a wealth of inspiration here for any naval fan, and the colours and patterns are often highly attractive…and beg to be reproduced in scale form. CC
MIGHTY ‘BUFF’ TRIBUTE
Boeing B-52 Stratofortress Warrior Queen of the Skies By: Jeannette Remak ISBN: 978-1-78155-467-8 Price: £29.99 Format: 248 x 172mm Web: www.fonthillmedia.com The Stratofortress needs no introduction to any aviation fan, and many books have been written about it. Can another tome add to the story? In a word, yes. This engaging volume takes the type from its origins through to the present decade, with a mix of technical details and operational
224 pages
history. Each variant is covered extensively, explaining the differences as well as their roles. The armament and stores they carried in war and deterrence are explained, and design and manufacture are covered at length; there’s also an in-depth chapter on their role in Vietnam. The author then continues the developmental and operational history into the current decade. Airframe, cockpit, electronics and engine upgrades/modifications are included, bringing the ageing aircraft up to fully capable 21st century warfighting standard. An interesting epilogue tells of resurrecting a B-52H from the Davis-Montham 'boneyard' back into service after seven years' storage, exemplifying the robust nature of the design. This volume shines as a reference for the latest incarnation of the B-52, with highquality black and white and colour photos. Technical and operational details will suit all interests, and its easy writing style won’t deter causal readers. While not modelling-orientated, the current photos will help with scale airframe and stores representation. PJ
LARGE-SCALE MASTERPIECES
128 pages
Wingspan 2 Edited by: Toni Canfora ISBN: 978-91-982325-4-7 Price: £22.99 Format: 290 x 212mm Web: www.canfora.se Wingspan 1 was published in 2015 to much acclaim and now, the second volume has finally made it into print. As before, the subjects are all 1/32 aircraft, and highly skilled modellers have ten builds showcased via the full-colour, high-resolution photo format with accompanying text. The aircraft featured are: Mitsubishi M2b Zero (Tamiya), Felixstowe F.2b (Wingnut Wings), Focke Wulf Ta 152H-1 (Zoukei-Mura), McDonnell F-4C Phantom (Tamiya), Kawasaki N1K2-J Shinden-kai (Hasegawa), Junkers Ju 87G-1 Stuka (Hasegawa), AV-8B Harrier II (Trumpeter), Hawker Hurricane Mk. IIc (Fly), P-61A Black Widow (Hobby Boss) and a Bf 109F-4 (Hasegawa). The quality of the builds is of the highest standard, showing what can be achieved not just with the most recent kits,
but also with those more likely to be found in various garage or loft ‘stashes’ around the world. Some projects are relatively ‘out of the box’, while others make extensive use of aftermarket items, providing information on how to integrate multi-media parts. Techniques for painting and weathering with a range of products are explored in detail, and the resulting models are stunning. Wingspan books can be bought direct from Canfora Publishing, or via Panzerwrecks in the UK (www.panzerwrecks.com). Builds for Wingspan 3 are already in progress! GT
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ON THE SHELF BOOKS
HEAVYWEIGHT FIGHTER CLASHES
F4U Corsair vs Ki-84 ‘Frank’ Pacific Theatre 1945 By: Edward M Young ISBN: 978-1-4728-1460-9 Price: £12.99 Format: 284 x 184mm Web: www.ospreypublishing.com Histories of Pacific War air battles tend to favour those between US Navy Hellcats and Japanese Zeros, but those between the F4U Corsair and Ki-84 Hayate ‘Frank’ are equally enthralling, despite being far fewer in number. Thankfully, Osprey has
MONSTER DOZER
80 pages
devoted a volume of its Duel series to chronicle this clash, aided by goodquality wartime black and white photographs, line drawings, and splendid full colour digital artwork and profiles. As well as introducing the two types, the opening chapter sets the scene in terms of the relative manufacturing capabilities of the United States and Japan, and the initial concepts behind both designs. Each machine receives a detailed study of its development, and an overview of the strategic situation in early 1945 acts as an interlude before a comparison of the levels of training undertaken by USMC and Japanese pilots. The main section is devoted to a discussion of combat operations, with revealing insights into the differing tactics employed and the difficulties in obtaining correct kill tallies, due to inevitable misidentification of enemy aircraft during high-speed encounters. In the final analysis, the author highlights the slightly superior performance and far higher numbers of late-war Corsairs, combined with greater combat experience and training of the Marine aircrew as the crucial factors. SF 132 pages
ALMOST DREADNOUGHTS German Battlecruisers By: Robert Brown and Steven Backer ISBN: 978-1-84832-181-6 Price: £14.99 Format: A4 Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk Released under the Seaforth imprint, this slim but busy volume focuses on the eight classes of battlecruiser developed by Germany between 1907 and 1915, and showcases 13 builds of the types. These designs were technically closer to being fast battleships, due to their superior armour protection and this aspect is highlighted throughout the narrative. After a brief examination of each vessel’s career, and accounts of notable World War One actions (such as the Battle of Jutland), modellers are treated to a complete kit and accessories listing, incorporating scales between 1/1250 and 1/250. There is then a stunning collection of models and dioramas, with full-hull and waterline examples and several scratch-builds. These include a 1/350 Lützow and a superb semi-
submerged HP Models 1/700 Hindenberg, the photographs of which appear highly realistic. Finally, the various changes in configuration during the ships’ careers are documented, and there are 1/700 plans for Blücher, Von der Tann, Seydlitz, Goeben, Yavuz (previously Goeben), Derfflinger, and Mackensen. This is an invaluable reference for this type of warship, the longevity of which is underlined by Goeben/ Yavuz, which lasted until 1971 in the Turkish Naval Reserves. SF
STRINGBAG EXAMINATION
M9 ACE Armored Combat Earthmover in Detail By: Chris Mrosko, Brett Avants ISBN: 978-0-9973774-1-5 Price: US $35 Format: 285 x 218mm Web: www.sabotpub.com
Fairey Swordfish 1934-45 (all marks) Owners’ Workshop Manual By: Jim Humberstone ISBN: 978-0-85733-362-9 Price: £21.99 Format: 276mm x 214mm Web: www.haynes.co.uk
The US Army’s M9 armoured bulldozer is the subject of this in-depth photographic analysis, which combines high-quality walk-round and close-up colour photographs to provide superb reference for modellers. A short introduction supplies a development history and vehicle description, followed by three labelled diagrams that locate and identify more than 30 major components. The remaining pages are split into three parts: In Action, On Maneuvres, and Walkaround, with the latter occupying 70 pages. Armour modellers will be delighted by the level of detail provided, with attention paid equally to vehicle features and how the machine is marked, stained and damaged during use.
Fairey’s Swordfish, also known as either ‘Stringbag’ or ‘white lady of the skies’, is the focus of this delightful publication. One of the few designs that remained in service throughout World War Two, it was also unusual in outlasting its intended successor (the Fairey Albacore), thanks to its rugged, if obsolescent, airframe. After a brief introduction to the Fairey company and the type’s development, one is immersed in the Swordfish’s combat exploits. These include famous actions at Taranto, Cape Matapan and against the Bismarck, its involvement in controversial attacks on the French Fleet at Oran and Mers-el-Kebir in 1940, and operations with the RAF. While the period photos are useful, the ‘meat’ of this volume for modellers begins in the Anatomy section, and continues with
While photos of the vehicles on operations will supply plenty of inspiration for dioramas, especially the road- and obstacle-clearing tasks, the close-ups are arguably the most useful as they offer the perfect guide to the earthmover itself. For those who enjoy applying weathering effects, this is manna from heaven. Sabot's books are quickly becoming go-to guides for modern US Army subjects, with more planned, including the M109A6, MIM-104 Patriot and MLRS SF
64 pages
156 pages
a detailed examination of the Bristol Pegasus engine and how the Royal Navy Historic Flight’s aircraft have been restored. Between them, these provide all the close-up and walkaround photographs necessary to satisfy even the most ardent detailer. Final chapters are concerned with operating and maintaining the Swordfish, with an overview of the 12 surviving machines. This is an ideal reference, regardless of which scale of Swordfish is being constructed, but is timed perfectly for Airfix’s 1/72 re-release (see build on p.48). SF
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ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
EXPORT GROUND-POUNDER
Su-25K Frogfoot By: MisterCraft Item no: 070106 Price: £24.99 Web: www.amerang.co.uk MisterCraft kits are imported by Amerang, and the range comprises very basic eastern/central European tooling, as well as better kits needing just cursory aftermarket/ scratch-building help. This Frogfoot falls into the latter category, as it has engraved panel lines (albeit slightly heavy), fair moulded cockpit detail and a respectable weapons cache; it’s the original OEZ plastic, re-released by KP/KoPro, Eduard and Smer. This kit offers colour schemes
1/48
for the export K-model aircraft, as well as a Soviet livery for the sans suffix Su-25; worthy structural features include full intake trunking and busy undercarriage units, and the armament is useful, too: SPPU22 gun pods, AA-8 Aphid missiles, B-8M1 rocket pods and FAB 250/500 bombs, and wing tanks. Decal-wise, the markings have matt carrier film, and some were out of register. The schemes offered include: • Red 32, Soviet AF, Afghanistan, 1980s • Blue 17, Ukrainian AF, 1980s • White 254, Bulgarian AF, 2010 • 071, Gruo Aero 11, Peruvian AF, 2005
AIRBORNE CLASSROOM
1/144
TWIN-BOOM SNOOPER
Fw 189A-2 By: ICM Item no: 72292 Price: £18.60 Web: icm.com.ua Fans of Luftwaffe subjects in 1/48 are still waiting for the release of ICM’s Fw 189s, but those who favour 1/72 will welcome the same company’s kits in the latter scale. Here, we have the A-2 variant, which differed from the A-1 purely by having twin defensive machine guns, although this kit offers the choice of twin/ single rearwards-firing single guns. Noticeable immediately are the exquisite moulding and crisp
panel lines, and the cockpit is creditable, with fine detail on the floor, moulded instruments and machine gun magazines/ammo boxes. The propeller blades are also impressively thin. Crucially, the glazing is not too thick either. There are also separate control surfaces, and well-rendered undercarriage parts. Two interesting schemes are provided (camo and whitewash) via the small but well-printed decal sheet: • V7+1J, 1.(H)/32, Finland, summer 1943 • 5D+CK, 2.(H)31, Rostov-on-Don region, January 1943
COMMEMORATIVE BUFF
Arado Ar 96B By: Mark I Models Item no: MKM14459 Price: £14.99 Web: www.4pluspublications.com Famous as the aircraft piloted by Hanna Reitsch when escaping Berlin in 1945, the Ar 96 was Germany’s principal night, instrument and advanced flying trainer. Mark I’s kit is the first in this scale, and is a great-value offering, containing sufficient parts for two models, each comprising two styrene runners and a singlepiece canopy. Exterior detail is rendered with fine engraved
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panel lines, and there is a decent interior. One can build the B-1, B-3 or B-7 variants, with the relevant structural nuances and different exhaust pipes included. The splendid decal sheet provides four contrasting liveries: • Ar 96B-1, 0122, White 16/KK+16, JFS 3, Germany, autumn 1940 • Ar 96B-1, PH+GQ, FFS A/B 23, Kaufbeuren, Bermany, 1943 • Ar 96B-3, 4296, Black 76, KFS 4, F̊ürth, Germany, spring 1942 • Ar-96B-7, Air Min 120, 435 Disarmament Servicing and Repair Unit RAF, Schleswig, Germany, late 1945
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
B-52G Stratofortress Gulf War 25th Anniversary By: Italeri Item no: 1378 Price: £49.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Italeri’s re-boxing of AMT/Ertl’s B-52G offers parts unchanged from the original release, which is a shame, as it means two schemes cannot be built accurately, due to the kit parts being configured for a cruise missile-carrying airframe (not all Gs had this modification). Considering its age, the parts are well detailed and flash free, with a well-appointed cockpit and wheel
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wells. Modellers wanting to build an iron bomb-laden airframe will be disappointed, as while pylons are supplied for the 12 cruise missiles, the correct Hound Dog pylons, I-Beam adapters and multiple ejector racks for external bomb carriage are lacking. Four liveries are included: • 58-0173, 1708th BW, King Abdul Aziz AB, Saudi Arabia, March 1991 • 57-6515, 801st BW, Morón, Spain, February 1991 • 57-6473, 4300th BW, Diego Garcia, January 1991 • 58-0251, 524th BS, 379th BW, Wurtsmith AFB, USA, 1977
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
NIPPONESE FIGHTER
Mitsubishi A5M2b Claude By: Finemolds Item no: FB20 Price: €24 Web: www.finemolds.co.jp Having released the later A5M4 Claude, Finemolds also offers this earlier variant, the A5M2b but in ‘Model 2-2’ format with this subtype’s unpopular sliding canopy. Superb moulding abounds, with delicate engraved panel lines, very busy cockpit (moulded instrument panel detail and decal, separate sidewall frames), and a superb 11-part engine. A reasonable pilot
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figure also appears, but his arms are moulded integrally tight to the body with hands on knees. Other features include a centreline fuel tank and separate flaps, which can be posed up or down. One also receives open and closed canopy components. A well-printed decal sheet carries markings for two Japanese aircraft in natural metal, with black engine cowlings and red tails: • 3-165, 12th Air Group, China, 1937-38 • 113, Hyakurihara Naval Air group, Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan
LICENCE-BUILT BESTMANN
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UNIVERSAL FIVE
Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Vc By: Revell Item no: 03940 Price: £14.99 Web: www.revell.de/en This is not new tooling, but older styrene offered originally by Eduard/Special Hobby. The engraving and general moulding is pleasing, although there is sporadic flash on some components, such as the propeller blades and machine gun bay openings in the upper wings; the slightly more vexing issue is the poorly fitting gun covers and lower fuselage filet; filler will be needed. Detail-wise there’s much to enjoy, as the cockpit is well
appointed and represents the ‘open’ floor very well. While the colour schemes are for tropical machines with Vokes filters and standard wingtips, clipped wingtips are present on the clear runner, so one can build an aircraft in this format with aftermarket decals or spares box items. The liveries are both for Mediterranean Theatre aircraft, one in Dark Earth, Middle Stone and Azure Blue, but the other is a Malta-based Spitfire, whose colours are often confusing and research is recommended: • BR476/QJ-J, 92 Sqn RAF, LG 173, Egypt, 1942 • BR190/A-2, 603 Sqn Aux AF, Malta, April 1942
OLD-SCHOOL ‘TREMBLERS’
Zlín Z-181/C-6 By: Special Hobby Item no: SH48187 Price: €16.70 Web: www.cmkkits.com Special Hobby has tweaked its recent Bestmann kit to represent a post-war, Czechmanufactured Bü 181. This is a reasonable offering, which benefits from photo-etched brass seatbelts, rudder-bar straps and a cockpit netting section (among other smaller items), although the two-piece
glazing is a little thick yet still surprisingly clear. The instrument panel has decent moulded detail but a decal is also supplied for overlay, and the colour schemes are very smart, one being for a notable female pilot who escaped the Communist onslaught in 1949 and settled in Australia: • OK-ZZE, Zlin Aviation Co, Mrs Božena Krajčova • UA-46, No 1 Training Squadron, Aviation School, Prostějov, Czechoslovakia, 1946
British Phantom FG Mk.I ‘Treble One’ By: Hasegawa Item no: 07441 Price: £69.99 Web: www.amerang.co.uk Hasegawa’s quarter-scale Speyengined Phantom has long been the only decent example of the type. It’s re-released yet again with new decals for the RAF’s Leuchars-based 111 Squadron ‘Tremblers’. For those not familiar with this styrene, the panel lines are engraved, the cockpit has moulded instrumentation (no decals for this) and reasonable Mk.7 seats. Separate fuselage auxiliary
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air doors are also provided and the Spey exhaust nozzles are worthy attempts. 111 Squadron was an airdefence unit, and while Skyflash missiles and the 20mm cannon pod are given, AIM-9 Sidewinders are not. Notably, though, there are also parts for the earlier non-ECM tail top, the large EMI recce pod and strike camera…so with aftermarket decals, extra stores and minimal conversion work, one could build a 1970s ground-attack Phantom. The kit offers decals for two 1980s jets in the tactical Dark Green and Dark Sea Grey over Light Aircraft Grey: XV582/B and XV574/Z.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 79
ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS
RE-PACKAGED WIMPY
Wellington Mk.IC By: Italeri Item no: 1383 Price: £29.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net MPM’s detail-packed Wellington Mk.IC has been re-boxed by Italeri, with a new decal sheet offering plenty of variety. The contents are otherwise unchanged, so there’s full wheel well, cockpit and turret fittings, while the representation of the geodetic structure isn’t overdone. Control surfaces are moulded integrally with the wings and tailplane. As usual with Italeri kits, the big attraction is the decal sheet, although disappointingly,
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the colours were out of register on AMW’s sample. There’s a bumper selection of six airframes, including: • R3212/F, 304 (Polish) Sqn, RAF Coastal Command, April 1942 • T2972/KX-G, 311 (Czechoslovak) Sqn, RAF East Wretham, September 1941 • R1593/OJ-N, 149 Sqn, RAF Mildenhall, August 1940 • T2508/FL-O, 37 Sqn RAF, Shallufa, Egypt, August 1940 • L7818/AA-V, 37 Sqn ‘The New Zealand Squadron’, RAF Feltwell, 1941 • L7788/KX+E, 311 Sqn, Rechlin Test Centre, Germany, 1941
RUDIMENTARY BIPLANE
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LIGHTWEIGHT FIGHTER
Yak-3 By: Eduard Item no: 8457 Price: €18.75 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s Yak-3 was one of its earlier offerings, comprising just two runners plus cockpit glazing, but has aged somewhat gracefully, and the parts are flash-free. There isn’t much to the kit, but this reflects the nature of the real machine, which was lightweight and smaller than its contemporaries. Panels are represented as engraved lines and there is a well-appointed cockpit, with decals for the instrument
panel, although careful painting and dry-brushing will highlight the moulded features. Options are minimal, with just a choice of an open/closed canopy…simple refinements would include drilling the gun barrels and exhausts for greater realism. For those wanting a more detailed model, Eduard produces separate internal and external photo-etched metal upgrade sets. There are two schemes supplied: • White 15, Lt Semyon Ivanovic Rogovoi, 64th GIAP, 2nd Baltic Front, autumn 1944 • White 6, Lt Marcelle Albert, GC3 Normandie-Niemen, 1944/45
EMPIRE OF THE CLOUDS
SPAD S.XIII By: Merit International Item no: 62401 Price: £52.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk Merit’s World War One collection has now been joined by the SPAD S.XIII, and as with its other offerings, it’s a mixed bag. The beautifully moulded parts are compromised by the basic detail, and lack features such as engine cover fasteners and spent shell ejection chutes. Furthermore, many panels were proud of the airframe, and it’s unfortunate
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these haven’t been replicated correctly. A photo-etched metal fret supplies the gunsight, engine grilles, aileron horns and all of the rigging, although some of the latter would be better represented by thread (the aircraft had both aerodynamic and rounded rigging). While this is a great basic offering, the price and lack of detail are off-putting. There are two schemes: • S4523, White 1, Capt Eddie Rickenbacker, US 94th Aero Sqn • S7000, Red VI, Capt Rene Fonck, Escadrille SPA.103(GC.15), 1918
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
Boeing 747-400 Ed Force One By: Revell Item no: 04950 Price: £26.99 Web: www.revell.de/en It might not be the song’s majestic airship, but Boeing’s 747 is arguably a modern equivalent, so when an airframe was repainted as ‘Ed Force One’ for heavy-metal band Iron Maiden’s ‘The Book of Souls’ tour, it was just a matter of time before a kit was released. Revell’s excellent 1/144 scale offering, which features delicate engraved panel lines and wellappointed wheel bays, has now been re-released with a gorgeous
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new decal sheet depicting the full tour livery. Options are limited to wheels up/down, but note that a stand isn’t included for the latter. Modifications will be needed to the window arrangement, but these are addressed on the first building stage; however, modellers will need to clear flash from a considerable number of parts. The DACOdesigned markings are a work of art, capturing ‘Ed Force One’ in all its glory, but aftermarket items may be more suitable for the passenger windows, as Revell appears to favour clear items, with the carrier film replicating the Perspex. Up the Irons!
www.resin2detail.com
Cavalier Turbo Mustang III Conversion Set 1/32 (for Tamiya)
M1 Weaver Bomb Lift 1/32 & 1/48
B-29 Cowling Correction Set 1/48
M5 Bomb Cart Kit 1/32 & 1/48
Brian Watkins - President, Owner RESIN2detail Premium Model Accessories
www.resin2detail.com Email:
[email protected]
Proudly Presents
THE EAST OF ENGLAND MODEL SHOW
SUNDAY 5TH MARCH 2017
at The Voyager Academy, Mountsteven Avenue, Walton, Peterborough, Cambs PE4 6HX
BIGGER THAN EVER
PLUS Trade Stands, selling the latest kits & equipment 10AM TO 4PM - ADMISSION £3 - UNDER 15 FREE REFRESHMENTS - FREE OFF STREET CAR PARK
Supported by
Airfix Model World For further information contact: The Show Secretary Ken Almen on 01733 321617 Email:
[email protected] www.PeterboroughScaleModelClub.co.uk
ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO TO THE ACADEMY’S NOMINATED CHARITIES
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ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS
SINO-BUILT BRUISER
Type 69-II By: Takom Item no: 2054 Price: £44.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk An extension of Takom’s T-54 mouldings, this is the Chinesemanufactured version of the type, which also sported elements from the T-62. This is a handsome offering with impressive detail; the lower hull has plenty of refinement, as does the turret. Faithful to the real vehicle, the track covers sport the correct fuel tanks and tools, and these areas also benefit from photo-etched
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brass details, such as strengthening plates and lamp covers. All crew hatches are separate, there are individual links, real metal tow cable and a convincing unditching beam. The only bugbears are that the lower front glacis is mishapen and the wheels are complicated, but in general this is a fine release: • Iranian IRGC (captured Iraqi) • Iraqi Army, 1991 • Royal Thai Army • Iraqi Army, 1991 (preserved at Saumur, France) • New Iraqi Army, post 2003 • Iraqi Army, 1991
ANTI-TANK ROCKETEER
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AFRIKA KORPS LIGHTWEIGHT
Panzer II Ausf. C Africa By: Attack Kits Item no: 72900 Price: £13.80 Web: www.attack-hobby-kits.cz This is the first Attack Kits product we’ve seen…and we’re impressed! The detail equals anything Dragon or Revell offers in 1/72, and the integrally moulded on-vehicle tools, and track cover treadplate texture, are superb and in scale. The running gear also displays a high degree of refinement, and the tracks come via straight styrene runs, and resin curved portions to fit over the drive sprockets and idlers. Other
resin items feature, and these include jerrycans (with/without stowage frames) and boxes, a beautifully rendered gun mantlet, smoke pot unit, and an exquisite jack. And as if this wasn’t enough, very fine turned brass main gun and machine gun barrels are supplied, too. This is a splendid little kit, with decals for five liveries, some in Panzer Grey, the others Desert Sand: • Black 4, 15.Pz.Div • Unknown vehicle • II 05, 5. Pz.Regt, 21st Pz.Div • White outline 241, Operation Sunflower, Naples/Tripoli, 1941 • 15.Pz.Div
TANK DESTROYER SUPPORT
VBL Milan By: Tiger Model Item no: 4618 Price: US $51 Web: www.tiger-model.com For a small vehicle, Tiger packs plentiful detail into its Panhard… here in Milan anti-tank form, with a full interior. The model follows the firm’s standard Véhicule Blindé Léger (Light Armoured Vehicle), and for those unwise to this company’s products, the quality is admirable. The two-piece body has excellent grille and hatch detail, and the tools are separate items
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with integrally moulded clamps. Upper hatches are individual pieces, as are the doors, which can be posed open. There are photo-etched brass details, which include jerrycan racks, retaining straps and a mesh grille. Two sets of rubber tyres exhibit different tread patterns. The pièce de résistance, though, is the Milan rocket launcher and spare-round tubes, both reproduced splendidly. Mig Jimenez has designed the colour guide, and the single threetone NATO livery is for the French Army’s 3e Régiment de Hussards.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
Berge-Panther mit aufgesetztem By: Dragon Item no: 6835 Price: £59.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net This is a re-release of the boutique Cyber-hobby moulding, which depicts the one-off Bergepanther field conversion carried out by Ferdinand/Jagdtiger unit, s.PzJager Abt.653. The tank-hunting outfit needed a mobile armoured command post, so it placed a Panzer IV turret on a Bergepanther hull. Dragon’s version offers all the
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detail and quality one might expect, with mixed runners from previous Panther and Panzer IV kits. The wheels are of the correct 16-bolt variety for the Ausf. D Panther, photo-etched brass engine screens are provided, and the Panzer IV turret has partial stand-off armour plating. Interestingly, Dragon offers side skirt armour plates as thin pre-cut plastic card, and DS Styrene tracks are present. This is a fascinating oddity, with badges for s.PzJager Abt.653, in decal form.
ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS
BATTLEFIELD BODGE-JOB
Flakpanzer T-34 By: Dragon Item no: 6599 Price: £59.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net This is another Dragon offering of a limited-production vehicle devised by schwere Panzerjäger Abteilung 653’s field modification workshop, combining a captured T-34 chassis with a 20mm Flakvierling. The contents are a mix of runners and photo-etched brass frets from a variety of Dragon kits, with just a single item produced specifically
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for this release, although this does mean plenty of spares. Extensive research is evident with accurate replication of the plate-welded turret and rear hull ammunition stowage racks. Tracks are supplied as Magic Track individual link items, which will aid greatly in achieving the distinctive sag common to T-34s. The single scheme is for the one vehicle operated by s.Pz.Jg.Abt.653 on the Eastern Front in 1944, and features a Russian Green underside, with typical late-war three-tone German camouflage.
OPEN-TURRET ARMOUR
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DESERT PATROLLER
British Armoured Car (Pattern 1920 modified with sand tyres) By: Roden Item no: 734 Price: £14.99 Web: www.pocketbond.co.uk Roden’s delightful Pattern 1920 armoured car has been re-issued as an RAF desert-modified vehicle, featuring replacement runners for the wheels, tyres and equipment boxes, and adds a new frame for a turret-mounted Lewis gun. Despite its size, it’s packed with detail, and includes neat touches such as the ubiquitous British suitcase and cleverly
scored stowage containers…which are then folded to form a box. A small number of sink marks were present on this sample, but otherwise the parts will require minimal preparation, and this will make a great addition to any desert or airfield diorama. The three schemes cover pre- and early war machines, and include two in the Caunter scheme: • No.1 ACC, No.4 Section, RAF, Western Desert, Egypt, 1942 • ‘Vulture’, No.1 ACC, No.1, 2 or 3 Section, RAF, Iraq, 1936 • ‘Tigris’, No.1 ACC, No.4 Section, RAF, Iraq, 1941
SHORELINE DEFENDER Russian A-22 130mm Coastal Defense Gun ‘Bereg’ By: Modelcollect Item no: UA72051 Price: US $59.99 Web: www.modelcollect.com
KTO Rosomak with OSS-M Turret By: IBG Models Item no: 35034 Price: €35.90 Web: www.ibg.com.pl IBG has followed its 1/35 Rosomak with the baseline armoured personnel carrier variant, which is fitted with the OSS-M open turret. The well-packed box, which yields 13 runners plus separate upper and lower hull halves and a photo-etched brass fret, gives a mere hint as to what is on offer. Unlike other manufacturers, IBG provides a complete interior as standard, comprising a full engine
and gearbox/transmission, driver’s and squad compartments, with an option to open the rear hatches. While the open-top turret may appear basic, there is a choice of 12.7mm heavy machine gun or 40mm grenade launchers for it. Outer tyre sections are provided in styrene, and the block tread is accurate. The two schemes both depict vehicles assigned to peacekeeping units: • UB 02017 ‘Tora Bora’, EUFOR Polish Army Contingent, Chad, 2009 • UB 02014, UN Polish Army Contingent, Chat, 2009
The ‘Bereg’ is part of Russia’s layered coastal defence system, and operates in association with the ‘Bal-E’ missile launcher. Modelcollect has now released the former as a 1/72 scale offering (with the latter under development) and it’s a stunner. It comprises eight styrene runners (including one clear), a separate single-piece cab, eight splendid vinyl hollow tyres and two photo-etched (PE) brass frets. There is a comprehensively detailed transmission and powerplant, and a full interior for the twoseat cab. While the crew compartment and turret lack any innards, the latter benefits greatly from PE accessories on the
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exterior, embellishing the crisply cast features. Three liveries are supplied, and although no information is supplied, to date these weapons have been assigned solely to units based at the Novorossisyk Naval Base on the Black Sea coast.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 83
ON THE SHELF AUTO KITS
BRIGHT AND SPORTY
McLaren 570S By: Revell Item no: 07051 Price: £22.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Last year was great for Revell supercar releases, both in terms of quantity and quality, none more so than the newly tooled McLaren 570S. It comprises 106 crisply moulded parts, on nine styrene runners, one of which is moulded in eye-wateringly bright orange (as is the single-piece body shell). There is plenty of detail included, notably the engine (the first 15 stages are devoted to its assembly) and options
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for either right- or left-hand-drive vehicle, and open/closed doors and engine hatch. The low-profile vinyl tyres are very good, with delicate tread and no trace of a mould seam on the exterior. While the single scheme is for the aforementioned orange, there is a choice of 11 licence plates. Decals are also supplied for the carbon fibre trim, engine hatch, company logos, dashboard instruments and even the seatbelts. One thing is for certain, modellers will surely need sunglasses when building this kit, as the body colour is dazzling!
EIGHT OUT OF TEN IN ‘87
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DOME’S CREATION
Toyota 88C Team Tom’s By: Hasegawa Item no: 20235 Price: £29.99 Web: www.amerang.co.uk Car modellers who favour endurance racers have much to savour at present, with several 1980s re-releases from Hasegawa. This kit of the Toyota 88C (the real vehicle being designed by Japan’s Dome Co Ltd) represents a 1989 Le Mans participant, the #38 car driven by Kaoru Hoshinio, Didier Artzet and Keiichi Suzuki. Sadly, it failed to finish, but a much better result can be expected in
SUPER COUPÉ
Jaguar XJR-8 Sprint Type By: Hasegawa Item no: 20281 Price: £39.99 Web: www.amerang.co.uk The 1987 World Sportscar Championship was dominated by the pairing of Jaguar and Tom Walkinshaw Racing, which enjoyed great success with the XJR-8; the car secured eight out of ten victories and scooped Autosport Racing Car of the Year. Hasegawa’s version, re-released from 1988, is a pleasing facsimile of this high-downforce vehicle.
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Just two discernible mould seams can be found on the body shell, so paint prep should be speedy. The marque’s trademark fourspoke (rear) and five-spoke (front) wheels are reproduced with decent shape, and the dashboard has raised portions to accept the instrument decals provided. Race numbers for #4 and #5 are offered, and this car’s Silk Cut purple is represented by decals, but these appear too dark. Silk Cut logos are provided though, despite the absence of cigarette branding on the box artwork.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
Mercedes-AMG GT By: Revell Item no: 07028 Price: £22.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Mercedes-AMG projects are always special, and the GT is no exception. Revell has been quick off the mark to produce this value offering, which is filled to the brim with yellow, clear, grey, metallic and chrome-plated runners. This new-tool moulding yields highly detailed components, notably the M178 4 lit engine (which is reproduced faithfully) and the interior, which boasts a choice of
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modelling terms, as this offering is worthy for its age. It's a great kit for those new to cars, or those wanting to explore racing vehicles, as assembly is simple. The body shell has several very faint seam lines that need sanding, but plus-points include super-clear glazing, reasonable cockpit features (the belts are moulded integrally with the seat), and well-rendered brake discs. Many ejector pin marks are on faces hidden by construction, and another pleasing asset is that of the decals, which are printed beautifully with gloss carrier film. 1/24
left- or right-hand-drive consoles. Thankfully, the bonnet can be positioned open to display the powerplant, although modellers may want to check references, as the real car’s innards are slightly different colours to those suggested in the instructions. The decals are splendid, featuring close-cropped carrier film, with excellent register and depth of colour, and standout items are the dashboard dials and displays. As always, a dozen registration plates are supplied, to adorn the single yellow livery supplied.
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ON THE SHELF MARITIME KITS
NIPPON SUB-HUNTER
Imperial Japanese Navy Escort Type Hei (Early) By: Pit-Road Item no: WB-03 Price: €25 Web: www.gsieurope.de This release from Pit-Road has identical contents to the late-type Hei (see Reviews Feb 2017), and replicates accurately the initial style of armoured housing for the forward 12cm gun (the rear gun was open to the elements). The moulded parts are splendid, with the deck sections (and the anti-slip steel plating) and hull halves being
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impressive in their refinement. Note the label for the stand will need to be cut from the box bottom; the latter also provides the painting details, for an overall grey vessel with anti-fouling red lower hull. The class didn’t carry hull numbers or (apparently) any identification markings, and can feasibly be built as any of the 55 Type-C escort vessels constructed. This kit is also available with photo-etched (PE) metal parts (WB-03E) and turned brass gun barrels (WB-03SP) and there is also a separate PE set (PE197).
NELSON’S FLAGSHIP
1/450
VINTAGE BATTLESHIP
Scharnhorst By: Revell Item no: 05037 Price: £13.50 Web: www.revell.de/en Revell’s Scharnhorst is an example of its halcyon days in the late 1960s, when manufacturers each had their own ‘standard’ ship scales (Airfix’s was 1/600). Modellers seeking accuracy would be better served by considering either 1/700 or 1/350 offerings, but for those wanting to try their hand at maritime modelling this is a good kit to start with. Surface detail is representative at best, and is of the raised variety. It’s also
predominantly over-scale, but the low parts count will make this a quick build; and the finished model does look sleek and menacing. As might be expected, there is considerable flash, but sanding sticks and a sharp knife should remedy that problem; mould seams will require a greater effort to remove, especially on the smaller components. A generic medium grey scheme is offered, although references indicate Scharnhorst never wore singletone camouflage (at minumum the hull was Dunkelgrau 51, with Hellgrau 50 superstructure), but the inclusion of the clipper bow and funnel cap would date this as post mid-1939.
MISSILE TORPEDO BOAT
HMS Victory By: Revell Item no: 05819 Price: £7.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Revell’s announcement of a 1/450 HMS Victory was a surprise, not just for the subject but the unusual scale (this is its first such offering). There are seven runners, although three are for the hull halves (upper and lower) and deck, and two for the sails and ratlines. The parts are generally wellmoulded, and although depicted as a full-hull model, a waterline
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version is possible–the low component count will make for a quick build. A small decal sheet supplies trim for the figurehead, ship’s crest, nameplate and stern adornments, while paper ensigns are also provided… unfortunately flags for Nelson’s famous ‘England expects’ signal are not. The single scheme depicts Victory shortly after its three-year reconstruction, with yellow/ochre and black hull. Modellers wanting to portray the ship as it appeared at Trafalgar (in the ‘Nelson chequer’) will need to paint the gun ports black.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
Albatros Class 143 By: Revell Item no: 05148 Price: £17.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Re-released at irregular intervals since 1995, Revell’s Albatros fast attack craft has also been offered in Gepard guise (which has a different weapons fit). This can be built just as a full-hull vessel (a stand is included), as the hull is rather thick, making a waterline conversion challenging. Revell’s perennial problem with flash has reared its head again, although thankfully the railings are well moulded. Detail is top-notch
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throughout, notably the Exocet launchers (although seam lines on the missile cannister ribbing will be an issue) and the complex deck pattern surrounding the forward OTO-Melara gun mount is very good. Thread for the mooring lines and rigging will need to be acquired separately, although diagrams for signal flag lines are supplied. There are decals for all ten ships in the class, all of which are depicted in the same light grey upper hull and superstructure, black boot line and anti-fouling red scheme. This is a great-value kit, ideal for budding ship modellers to get their teeth into.
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ON THE SHELF FIGURES
MEDITERRANEAN GUARD
A new addition to ICM’s collection of ceremonial figures is that of the ‘Italian Carabineer’, which is, in fact, a Piedmont-Savoy Carabinier (the spellings are interchangeable). It comprises four styrene runners, but just one is dedicated to the main figure. The crisply moulded parts are flash free and feature sumptuous detail, notably on the aiguillette and hat crest. In addition to official guard and parade duty, the unit also deploys on peacekeeping operations, hence this subject’s campaign medals. A sturdy stand is included, along with a choice of four different styles of roadway. Full painting instructions are supplied, and while elements of this may present a challenge, the result will be well worth the effort.
Italian Carabineer By: ICM Item no: 16003 Price: £16.80 Web: www.icm.com.ua
WOLVERINE BOSS
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Rosomak Commander in Afghanistan By: Toro Model Item no: 35F86 Price: €12 Web: www.toro-model.com.pl Toro’s resin figure is intended for IBG’s 1/35 Rosomak, but would be suitable for any modern Polish military diorama. Posed as if sitting in a hatch, the sixpart basic mannequin features splendid casting, and the current body armour is reproduced faithfully. Also included is an AKMS personal weapon, two ammunition pouches for the body armour and a separate helmet. However, the highlight is the decal sheet, which provides deployment badges, national markings, and ranks for shoulder tabs, caps and chest straps.
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FEMININE DELIVERY
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RESPITE FROM BATTLE
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U.S. Soldiers at Rest By: MiniArt Item no: 35200 Price: £10.99 Web: www.miniart-models.com Here’s a wonderful collection of troops, seen in at-rest poses, obviously away from the front line. Body positions are excellent and all beg to be included in a diorama or vignette, although just one or two could be employed depending on the scene. Lying asleep with hand on rifle butt, and reclined while smoking are useful figures, but the soldier sitting on his helmet while reading, and the pair playing cards, do bring extra life and character. The scattering of weaponry includes M1/M1 Carbines, and personal
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equipment comes in the shape of entrenching tools, canteens, combat knives and other common accoutrements. While handy, these figures do sport mould seams and flash in places, and the facial moulding is not quite up to the usual MiniArt standard. The paper sheet carrying playing cards, a newspaper and Life magazine, is welcome though.
ELYSÉE PROTECTOR
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French Republican Guard Officer By: ICM Item no: 16004 Price: £17.99 Web: www.icm.com.ua WRAF/WRFC Despatch Rider WW1 By: Elan13 Item no: EL43 Price: £13 Web: www.elan13.co.uk
F-16 Pilot By: PJ Production Item no: 321120 Price: €10.50 Web: www.pjproduction.net
The billing might be slightly confusing, and one should do their research on uniforms, but regardless, this figure sculpted by proprietor Robert Lane displays splendid detail. Entirely in grey resin, the lady appears quite tall and has a slim build. Refinement abounds; the just-visible necktie under the scarf, superbly rendered boots and breeches, and the cute haircut and facial features – all go towards a lovely display piece great for individual display, or perhaps with a same-scale motorcycle in a vignette, for example.
Got an Academy or Tamiya 1/32 F-16? Then why not add extra life to the cockpit with PJ’s 1/32 resin pilot figure? The arms, oxygen hose and two heads are individually cast items, but all display respectable mastering and final detail. The choice of headgear is a thoughtful touch, with both HGU-55 and what appears to be the more modern Joint Helmet Mounted Cueing System unit, made by Vision Systems International; both are cast in visor-down mode.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
This French honour guard figure by ICM is a delight. With just 25 parts for the figure and six for the base, it’s a simple build project, yet offers plenty of refinement thanks to the superb moulding. As with all ICM ceremonial figures, the big challenge is the painting, particularly the braid accoutrements and fringed shoulder boards common to this formal French uniform. Neat touches include the separate sword hilt, shoulder boards, hands and fingers, which should further ease construction. In a change to previous releases, the subject (representing an infantry regiment officer) is portrayed with an unsheathed sword and is possibly executing the ‘present arms’ drill manoeuvre.
ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS
BLADE DATA
F-86E/F Sabre Stencils Set By: HGW Models Item no: 248027 Price: €19.80 Web: www.hgwmodels.cz A serious amount of research seems to have gone into this
1/48 stencil set for the E/F-model Sabre…ideal for Eduard’s re-release of Hasegawa’s kit (see p.34), the latter firm’s own boxings, or those from Academy or Italeri. This is a comprehensive collection, which is thoughtfully put together, as it even offers appropriately sized fuel tank markings for both Eduard/ Hasegawa and Academy kits… and different styles of canopymounted ADF aerials. These are waterslide decals, but they differ from the norm slightly regarding application as there is a clear transfer film, which needs to be peeled away once the decal has dried. The instructions are also clear and concise. 1/72
CAMM’S CORKER
RAF Hunters Pt:1 By: Blackbird Models Item no: BMD72038 Price: £5 Web: www.blackbirdmodels.co.uk Hawker’s Hunter is an enduring subject, and Blackbird’s new decals really add something to the current mix, due to the provision of schemes for early straight-wing variants. The firm is also offering resin conversion sets to work in tune with the markings, and they are designed to fit Revell’s Hunters in 1/72 and 1/32 (Blackbird also has
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Hunter schemes in the latter scale). This sheet carries three British liveries, all very smart in their own way, with one being an overall silver aircraft, and the other two sporting day fighter camouflage with coloured spines and tails. The F.6 requires no conversion work, of course, as one of Revell’s kits is already of this sub-type, but Blackbird’s straight-wing set can be employed on either the F.6 or FGA.9 from Revell: • F.1, WT572/26, Empire Test Pilots’ School, Farnborough, 1959 • F.1, WY694/Y, Day Fighter Leader School, RAF West Raynham, 1957 • F.6, XF383, Day Fighter Combat School, RAF Stradishall, 1961
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
DAZZLING DECEPTION
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Hawk 75 (P-36) By: LPS Hobby Item no: LPM-72-25 Price: US $15 Web: www.lpshobby.com In the late 1930s and early 1940s, the US Army conducted disruptive camouflage trials on various aircraft (including the P-36), and the results were, in some cases, stunning. The two US Army options supplied by Brazil’s LPS Hobby are splendid examples, but one in particular will test one's masking skills to the limit as it gets complicated on the fuselage. Both liveries are all about the painting, as the markings are simple, being limited to national insignia, an ARMY legend, ‘50’ codes, wing
DEFINITIVE SPIT
walkways and unit badges…and one part of the fuselage pattern on the more complex machine. Original two-digit US paint reference numbers are quoted, but it’s advisable for modellers to conduct their own research into these shades…and some mixing may be necessary.
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Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX Collection By: Xtradecal Item no: X72263 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Eduard’s recent 1/72 Spitfire Mk.IX has undoubtedly inspired this gathering of schemes, which offers standard northwest European day fighter colours, as well as several slightly different options. The most unusual is a Corsica-based machine in Medium Sea Grey over PRU Blue, with an Aboukir tropical filter. Two US 52nd Fighter Group aircraft also feature, one being in desert tones, while the 87 Squadron LK-M, with Dark Mediterranean Blue on its undersides, also gives something extra. National insignia is supplied for all choices: • Mk.IXc, MA466/BQ-S, 451 (RCAF) Squadron, Corsica, 1944 • Mk.IXc, WD-M, 4th FS, 52nd FG, Corsica, 1944 • Mk.IXc, VF-AA, 5th FS, 52nd FG, Corsica, 1944 • Mk.IXc, NH346/LK-M, 87 Sqn RAF, Austria, 1946 • LF.IXe, RK856/CA-G, Maj C Golding,
3 Sqn SAAF, Italy, 1945 • Mk.IXc, MK805/SH-B ‘Peter John III’, Flt Lt T Cooper, 64 Sqn RAF, Harrowbeer, 1944 • LF.IXc, MJ378/KJ-R, Capt PCR Burger, 4 Sqn SAAF, Italy, 1944 • Mk.IXc, RK917/DB, Gp Capt Douglas Bader, Essex Sector CO, 1945 • Mk.IXe, MK304/Y2-K, Flt Lt A Roseland, 442 (RCAF) Sqn, St Croix Sur Mer, France, 1944 • Mk.IXc, 5J-L, F/S Hinton, 126 Sqn RAF, Upottery, Devon, 1944
ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS
LEATHERNECK HORSES
USMC CH-53D/E Super Stallions By: Flying Leathernecks Decals Item no: FL 48002 Price: US $20 Web: www.flying leathernecksmodels.com Designed to fit Academy’s and Revell’s 1/48 CH-53s, this stunning collection provides markings for nine US Marine Corps D and E variants. There is a three-view drawing of each airframe, with comprehensive notes on any alterations necessary
to the basic kits, and recommendations for any aftermarket accessories. Several notable machines are covered, including CH-53D 162493, which was painted in an FS 20400/FS 30219 Tan scheme (with a ‘Nekkid Lady’ silhouette on the port fuselage), and CH-53E 161542 with its Decepticon logo on the fuselage door. The nine schemes include: • CH-53D, 156959, YL/53, HMH-362 ‘Ugly Angels’, Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, 2010 • CH-53D, 157728, YZ/46, HMH-363 ‘Luck Red Lions’, Camp Bastion, Afghanistan, 2010 • CH-53E, 162493, YK/70, HMH466 ‘Wolfpack’, Operation Desert Shield/Storm, 1990/1991 • CH-53E, 161542, EN/07, HMH-464 ‘Condors’, MCAS New River, July 2008 • CH-53E, 162523, YM/25, HMM-365 (REIN), 24th MEU(SOC), Kandahar Province, Afghanistan, 2008 • CH-53E, 163061, EG/24, VMM-263 (REIN), 22nd MEU, USS Bataan, 2009
LUFTWAFFE DEVICES Messerschmitt Bf 109 Crosses and Stencils By: HGW Models Item no: 248029 Price: €21.50 Web: www.hgwmodels.cz Quarter-scale Bf 109G-Ks receive an exhaustive set of airframe
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1/48
1/48
stencils, courtesy of HGW Models’ excellent product. Comprising two decal sheets, each printed on a single block of carrier film (individual items will need to be cut separately), it provides a comprehensive collection of stencils and national markings. One sheet covers the warning and information labels, and captures the slight differences between aircraft manufactured at different locations. These include Augsburg, Brno and Leipzig, with further nuances between those machines sporting standard and ‘Erla’ canopies. A broad range of Balkenkreuz, Swastikas and dashed wing walkway lines are also provided. As with the F-86 set (see p.90) these aren’t run-of-the-mill decals, and once applied, they require a transparent ‘foil’ to be removed...but the result will be spectacular.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
SOUTHERN EXPLORER Norwegian B787 EI-LNE ‘Roald Amundsen’ By: Lima November Decals Item no: LN144-576 Price: £9.99 Web: www.lndecals.com Intended for Zvezda’s B787 Dreamliner (or Revell’s re-box), this set replicates the commemorative scheme applied to Norwegian airliner EI-LNE and depicts explorer Roald Amundsen, famous for leading the first expedition to reach the South Pole. Two sheets are supplied, one with the main airline logos and airframe stencils, and the second with the tail artwork. Note the representations of Roald Amundsen are printed on a solid block of carrier film and will need to be cut from the backing sheet. There is a guide to the changes
necessary to portray a Norwegian B787, which mainly involves filling some of the passenger windows. Accompanying colour notes explain the airline livery, with an Xtracrylix shade identified as the ideal red hue for the forward fuselage. Even basic Norwegian airliners appear striking in this scheme, but this will be even more so with the depiction of Norway’s famous explorer on the fin.
ANNIVERSARY TONKAS Tornado Special Schemes By: Xtradecal Item no: 48171 Price: £9.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Although the RAF doesn’t often apply special schemes, its 100th anniversary spawned a host of colourful liveries, many applied to Tornado GR.4s. Xtradecal’s 1/48 twosheet set tackles three subjects, two in overall Medium Sea Grey and one in Desert Pink. Both 9 and XV(R) Squadron’s centenary colours are provided, the former with a smart black fin and spine with green/yellow flashes and bat silhouette, and the latter in sharp blue/red regalia. The final airframe was repainted to mark 25 years of combat operations by the type, commencing with 1991's Operation Granby, hence the pink livery. This machine also sports a large shark mouth on the forward fuselage. The second sheet carries airframe stencils and warning markings, with alternatives for different camouflage. While Revell’s newly tooled GR.4 is the obvious recipient, they would also be suitable for other offerings, albeit with the
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1/48
necessary modifications to create this particular variant: • ZA461, XV(R) Sqn, Wg Cdr Jon Nixon and Sqn Ldr Conan Mullineaux, RAF Lossiemouth, 2015 • ZA456, 9 Sqn, Wg Cdr IJ Sharrocks and Flt Lt AH Lock, RAF Marham, 2015 • ZG750, XV(R) Sqn, RAF Lossiemouth, 2016
1:24
A19003 HAWKER TYPHOON Mk.IB ‘CAR DOOR’
HAWKER TYPHOON Mk.IB ‘CAR DOOR’
Introduced into service in 1941, the Hawker Typhoon was designed to be the RAF’s new ultimate interceptor fighter. Superseding the Hawker Hurricane it was hoped that the Typhoon, together with the Spitfire, would be a powerful and effective opponent of the Luftwaffe. However it was not to be. Initially plagued by mechanical woes from the engine and suffering from a deficit in performance at high altitude, the Typhoon instead found fame as a low level attack aircraft, a role to which it was both well suited, and hugely effective. n Fully detailed cockpit interior and pilot n Complete exposed engine option n Fully detailed gun bays n Fully detailed undercarriage n Landing flaps up or down options
Fuselage length 404mm Wingspan 528mm Pieces 520
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ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES
CLASSIC STORE
1/32
1/35
Road barrier By: Plus Model Item no: EL066 Price: €3.30 Web: www.plusmodel.cz
Mk.82 Bomb By: CMK Item no: 5112 Price: €15.30 Web: www.cmkkits.com Arguably the most prolific ‘iron’ before the advent of smart weapons, the Mk.82 500lb bomb has been carried by almost every groundattack aircraft in the US inventory. Vietnam builds will benefit especially, an F-4 being the obvious example, but the choice of donor aircraft is legion. These two 1/32 stores come with tails separate to the body units, as well as alternative standard and extended fuzes. Care will be needed when removing excess resin from the tails, as it is rather thick. Stencil decals are included.
RADIAL REFINEMENT
CONTROLLED PASSAGE
1/72
Plus Model’s road barrier is a simple but effective addition for builders of dioramas or vignettes. The fulcrum section and end stand are in resin, while the cross-bar comes as a wooden piece…which could be varnished or painted in high-vis colours to suit the setting. Military or civilian (or a mixture of both) scenes could benefit from this neat item. Copper wire is also provided to form the handle.
COLD WAR AND BEYOND
MIXED-MEDIA BANG SEATS
1/72
Mirage F.1B MB Mk.10 seats By: CMK Item no: Q72 255 Price: €10.30 Web: www.cmkkits.com Add an extra touch of class to Special Hobby’s Mirage F.1 twoseater with sister brand CMK’s resin and photo-etched brass ejection seats. These Mk.10s are splendid affairs with crisp casting, and well-etched add-ons that comprise multi-part harnesses, headbox straps, leg restraint bands, seat firing handles and two styles of canopy breaker, for front and rear seats.
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LIGHTNING BOOST
1/48
EAGLE ADAPTERS
LAU-128/LAU-552 Launch Rail and Wing Pylon Mounts By: GT Resin Products Item no: N/A Price: US $20 Web: www.largescaleplanes.com GT Resin Forum If Tamiya’s 1/32 F-15s have a weak spot, it’s the underwing missile launch units, as without the ordnance the mating face is comparatively featureless. For those not wanting to scratchbuild extra detail, GT Resin’s crisp replacement LAU-128s and LAU-552s are drop-in items, supplanting both the styrene rail and its mount. The rail features are superb, and all it needs after a coat of Medium Gunship Gray will be heavy dry-brushing with silver and gunmetal tones to depict the bare metal.
BIPLANE RESIN
Wright R-3350 Turbo compound engine By: Plus Model Item no: AL7015 Price: €12.60 Web: www.plusmodel.cz For those seeking extra detail, Plus Model’s busy resin Wright engine is a whole project on its own. This powerplant was fitted to the P2V Neptune, Martin Marlin, C-119 Boxcar and Lockheed Constellation. The scale version offers plenty of well-cast resin, with separate cylinder units, an impressive main section and fine fuel lines. Further detail is ensured via photo-etched brass components, and fine copper wire.
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UB-16 rocket pods By: Eduard Item no: 672102 Price: €7.45 Web: www.eduard.com The ubiquitous S-5 rocket has been carried for years by Soviet Bloc/ Russian aircraft, chiefly in pods of the UB-16 variety. Here, Eduard offers four of the famous 16-shot stores, in resin and photo-etched metal, and they are ideal additions to any manner of aircraft, from the MiG-21, -23 and -27 and Su-17, to helicopters… Mi-8/-17 and Mi-24 in particular. Decals are also included.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
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1/48
P-38J turbochargers & air intakes By: Eduard Item no: 648283 Price: €7.45 Web: www.eduard.com
Gloster Gladiator wheel set By: SBS Model Item no: 48048 Price: €4 Web: www.sbsmodel.com
Whether in its original Academy box, or re-packaged by Eduard, this 1/48 P-38J is the intended recipient of Eduard’s new resin turbocharger units and air intakes. The detail is much better than that exhibited by the styrene components, and photoetched brass surrounds for the former items are also supplied (these will need bending).
While most Gladiators sported plain mainwheel hubs, some had the spoked variety and SBS Model has done well in casting its resin versions of the latter, which are designed to fit the recent Merit kit. The detail is excellent, and even the brake system features are included inside the main part. Spoke sections are cast separately and are removed from the blocks easily, as the attachment points are very slight.
ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES
EXTRA LIFT
1/48
BLADES AND GRIDS
1/32
BELGIAN RATTLESNAKES
1/35
SAILPLANE SUPPLEMENT
1/72
Grunau Baby IIb By: Brengun Item no: BRL 72094 Price: €6.59 Web: www.brengun.cz
F-15 Vent/Updated Antenna Set By: GT Resin Products Item no: N/A Price: US $25 Web: www.large scaleplanes.com GT Resin Forum P-40B landing flaps By: Eduard Item no: 48895 Price: €22.95 Web: www.eduard.com Add even more impressive detail to Airfrix’s 1/48 P-40B with these superb flaps from Eduard. They aren’t for the beginner, as there is much folding required and the proper tool, such as an Etch Mate, is definitely advisable. The result, though, will look wonderful. One will need to remove some of the kit plastic beforehand.
INTAKE COVERS
1/48
Despite advances in moulding, styrene rarely equals resin for fine detail, and not even Tamiya is immune to this. Thankfully, any such items on its 1/32 F-15E can be replaced by these aftermarket parts from GT Resin, which include various vents, antenna blades and an ALQ-128 fin-top electronic warfare warning fairing. Clear guidance is supplied on how to remove any styrene from the kit components.
AEROFOIL EXTENSION
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Lewis Gun Mk.I By: GasPatch Models Item no: 15-35080 Price: €15 Web: www.gaspatchmodels.com Renowned for its high-quality work, GasPatch has pulled out all the stops with this delightful and well-detailed pair of Mk.I Lewis guns (allegedly nicknamed ‘Belgian rattlesnakes’ by the Germans). The main bodies are in two sections, with a separate muzzle cover/cooling jacket, and there are single examples of folded/ unfolded bipods. Six ammunition drums are supplied, one for each gun and four for the splendid storage box, which features finely cast sides and carrying handle, and can be displayed with an open/closed lid.
READY FOR SAIL
Intended to garnish AZ Model’s 1/72 offering, this busy little set provides sufficient photo-etched metal parts for both of the kit’s sailplanes. There is a choice of two instrument panels (including acetate instrument dials), along with rudder pedals and a fourpoint harness for the pilot’s seat, while the exterior benefits from control surface actuators, a towing eye for the nose and a hook for the underfuselage skid.
GUN CARTRIDGES
1/48-1/32
1/350
Tapered Masts Set 2 By: Master Model Item no: SM-350-090 Price: £6.99 Web: www.master-model.pl
British Phantoms FOD By: Q-M-T Item no: 48001 Price: £5.20 Web: www.q-m-t.cz One drawback to Hasegawa’s British Phantoms is the lack of intake detail, but Q-M-T’s photoetched brass foreign object damage (FOD) covers provide the perfect solution. Each comprises a single-piece blank, with two handles, which must be bent and fitted into pre-cut holes. References will should be checked as to their colours, although they were mostly red, and were on occasion adorned with squadron insignia.
B-17 landing flaps By: Eduard Item no: 72629 Price: €22.45 Web: www.eduard.com Although minor surgery is required, this set to add detailed lowered flaps to Airfix’s new B-17G is a boon. The etching is first class, but experience with bending/manipulating photoetched brass is necessary; generally, the larger the part, the more difficult it is. This package is a busy affair, as all the separate ribs inside the large flaps are present, and these will look superb if worked correctly.
Whether one is scratchbuilding a 1/350 sailing ship or assembling it from the box, these simple, yet effective accessories from Master Model will add a welcome touch of refinement. Four 4in (100mm) tapered turned-brass masts are supplied, with base and tip diameters between 2.2mm and 3mm, and 0.7mm and 1mm respectively. While these can be combined with kit/ styrene yardarms, one might want to consider Master Model’s Universal Yardarm Sets as an alternative.
Browning .50 Cal Flexible Ammunition Belts and Feed Chutes By: MDC Item no: Various Prices: £3-£4.50 Web: www.modeldesign construction.co.uk With more kits and aftermarket accessories now enabling modellers to display open gun bays on their builds, MDC’s .50 Cal ammunition belts and feed chutes will be a real boon. Available in 1/48 and 1/32, the vinyl-like material’s flexibility will make fitting these items much simpler than styrene alternatives. Two types are available, either a basic ammunition belt (CV48051 and CV32068) for hand-held weapons, or a belt within feed chute (CV48056 and CV32074) as featured on turretand wing-mounted guns.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com 95
ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES
GUARDS AND GEARS
1/48
Meteor Mk.8 Main and Nose Wheel Set By: BarracudaCast Item no: BR48304 Price: US $8.95 Web: www.barracudacals.com
Meteor F.8 Wheels By: Eduard Item no: 648272 Price: €5.95 Web: www.eduard.com Airfix’s 1/48 Meteor F.8 has received plenty of attention from aftermarket companies, and Eduard’s resin wheels and mudguards are the ideal upgrade to the kit’s undercarriage. The crisply cast parts are far superior to the styrene components, notably with the scale thickness of the mudguards, and the main wheels feature embossed text on the sidewalls. An attachment bolt is supplied for the inner side of each of the larger wheels, and a handy kabuki-tape wheel mask is included.
RIDE THE STORM
1/32
Tempest/Typhoon Pilot’s seat By: CMK Item no: Q32 246 Price: €4.80 Web: www.cmkkits.com A splendid addition to Special Hobby’s new Typhoon, but equally at home in a Tempest in the same scale, this neat resin seat from CMK ticks all the boxes. It’s cast beautifully and benefits from the cross-hatched pattern of the back cushion (which itself has delicate loops over the seat frame). Three styrene parts from the Special Hobby kit will complete it, if building that company’s model.
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MEATBOX UNDERCARRIAGE
Although stated as an alternative for the kit wheels in Airfix’s 1/48 Meteor F.8, BarracudaCast’s resin items are arguably generic items for any quarter-scale Meatbox, as the attachment points aren’t shaped to fit the undercarriage lugs on that particular offering. The cast detail is well defined, notably the circumferential tread and sidewalls, while the brake housing is rendered accurately.
ALPHA GEAR
1/48
LARGE-SCALE CREW PEWS
1/32
B-17 Flying Fortress Seats By: RESIN2detail Item no: AC32005 Price: US $10.99 Web: www.resin2detail.com Hong Kong Models’ enormous B-17s are impressive enough, but for those seeking that bit extra, these ‘fast fix’ replacement pilot and co-pilot seats are just the ticket. Cast finely in dark grey resin, these supplant the styrene parts and feature wafer-thin sides, realistic cushion creases and reinforcement strips on the back plate. The excellent seatbelts will benefit from careful painting and dry-brushing and (when combined with RESIN2detail’s other accessories) will improve the cockpit appearance significantly.
MAXIM SUCCESSOR
1/35
HOVERING UPGRADE
Harrier GR Mk.7/9 By: Eduard Item no: 648294 Price: €18.75 Web: www.eduard.com Eduard’s re-box of Hasegawa’s Harrier has prompted this release, but the parts are equally valid for kits in the latter’s (or Revell) boxes. There’s a wealth of extra detail, such as resin main and outrigger wheels (with paint masks), an ejection seat, TERMA countermeasures pod, Sniper laser designator with adapter and pylon, one-piece exhausts and photo-etched metal details (such as seatbelts, add-ons for the TERMA and Sniper, and more). Decals are also provided, to complete a bumper package for Harrier fans...particularly those building Afghanistan aircraft.
LIGHT TANK UPGRADE
McDonnell F-15A Eagle Correct Width Wheels By: MasterCasters Item no: MST48049 Price: £5.99 Web: www.mastercasters.co.uk Designed to fit Revell-Monogram’s 1/48 F-15As, the three wheels (two main and one nose) are intended as direct replacements for the overly thin styrene items. Detail on the outer face and brake housing is well rendered and the mainwheels have the same attachment lug as the kit parts, which ensures the casting block plug will be at the bottom. Note that these should also be applicable to Revell-Monogram’s F-15C re-boxings.
View more reviews online: www.airfixmodelworld.com
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1/48
Maschinengewehr 08 (MG 08) Barrel By: Magic Models Item no: MM5586 Price: US $8.50 Web: www.magicmodels.ru Fitted to German World War One tanks and the fascinating Skoda PA-II ‘Turtle’, the Maschinengewehr 08 has now been released as a 1/35 turnedbrass barrel set by Magic Models, and is the perfect alternative for offerings from Hobby Boss, Meng, Takom and Tauro. Comprising five pieces, including a barrel/ cooling jacket assembly, there are two small photo-etched brass frets for the fittings and accoutrements for five different versions of the 7.92mm calibre machine gun, depending in which vehicle it was installed.
Pz.38(t) Ausf.E/F By: Hauler Item no: HLX48363 Price: €14.16 Web: www.hauler.cz Tamiya’s exquisite Pz.38(t) Ausf.E/F gets a facelift, with this very effective photo-etched brass. There's a surprising amount of surgery needed, with the entire track guard assembly to be removed; note that to replicate the raised hemispherical cross-section strips, one will need to press into the etched recesses with a ball-point pen or similar object. Other enhancements include track holder brackets, engine grilles and stowage containers, while all of the tools receive replacement clasps/straps.
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MODEL SHOP
Freightdog Models
Home of Blue Max and Pegasus Models Online shop for kits, decals ands accessories www.freightdogmodels.co.uk +44 (0) 1342 716004 Fairlight, Sandy Lane, Crawley Down, Crawley, RH10 4HX
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PLASTIC SURGERY ASK THE EXPERTS
Quiz AMW’s team of contributors, regarding your own modelling mysteries... the fogging, it occurs when I use cyanoacrylate glue. John Athan Melbourne, Australia
MASKING
Glazing issues
Q
I've been struggling recently with canopies. Firstly, what is the best way to mask and secondly, can they be restored if they become fogged? I’ve used Tamiya tape in conjunction with a fresh No.11 blade to cut it out along
the frame. This works fine for most German aircraft which have mostly straight canopy framing, but with bubbletop spitfires or parts that are curved, it is harder to track with the blade, resulting in score marks from the slipping. Concerning
AIRBRUSHING
Good housekeeping
Q
I use an airbrush to paint my 1/48 model aircraft, but I struggle to keep the finish free of bits of rubbish. Tiny specks of dust and – worst of all – tiny little fibres always seem to spoil the paint, however hard I try to avoid it. The models in AMW don’t seem to suffer from this, so what do your authors do to get their finishes so smooth and unblemished? Jon Bryon Croydon, UK AMW’s Editor, Chris Clifford, says: “The key to this is maintaining a scrupulously spotless work space…regular vacuuming, and spray cleaner on work surfaces. This is particularly vital if one has pets in the house.
It’s important to clean the area properly, especially after a session of sanding (a damp cloth is crucial). Another trick is to cover one’s model while it dries, to prevent particles sticking to a wet surface (large cake tubs
AMW’s Andy Davies says: “This is something that vexes many modellers. Personally, I mask my canopies with Bare Metal Foil… extremely thin self-adhesive foil, which adheres well to canopy framing. I start by cutting a rough shape and apply it over the area to be masked, then burnish it into all edges and corners with a damp cocktail stick. This is followed by running a fresh scalpel blade along the frame line and peeling back the excess with fine tweezers. The foil must be removed soon after painting to prevent adhesive remaining on the clear parts. Another option is masking tape, but many make the mistake of trying to cover the whole part in just one or two pieces. The trick with bubble canopies is to apply
are good). Additionally, avoid wearing overly fibre-laden clothing while modelling, as these can shed into the work area easily. If the problem concerns old paint, where bits of dried colour may be falling into the pot/ bottle from the lid or rim, filter the paint before use. This can be done by stretching a portion of women’s tights/stockings over a clean jar, securing with an elastic band, and then pouring the paint so it filters through the stretched nylon. It can then be decanted for thinning and airbrushing (or diluted in the jar before placing in the airbrush cup). Another consideration is encouraging paint to dry more quickly; with enamels especially, give the paint some blasts of neat air once on the model. Acrylics dry more quickly than enamels, so are worth trying.”
the outer framing first, via thin strips of tape around the edges, and then infill the remaining area. Tamiya Masking Tape for Curves (combined with standard tape or Maskol) is worth trying, as it’s designed to be applied to compound surfaces. Regarding fogging, the best prevention is to apply Johnson’s Klear/Future/ Pledge floor polish to the parts first, which creates a barrier to offset the effects of cyanoacrylate fumes. I rarely apply CA to clear components, preferring to use Gator’s Grip Thin Blend PVA glue, which provides a very strong bond and dries clear. To restore the clarity of canopies, use MicroMesh cloths, which are supplied in various grades and, if used in sequence, will usually remove most blemishes and restore the glazing to a high shine.” Do you have a modelling conundrum regarding techniques or references? If so, why not quiz our band of contributors, history writers and industry contacts? Simply send your query via e-mail (with The Plastic Surgery in the subject line), to:
[email protected], or a typed letter by post to: The Plastic Surgery, Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, United Kingdom. Please provide your postal address. Each question printed will receive a selection of Ultimate Modelling’s sanding sticks worth approximately £15. For further details on Ultimate Modelling Products, please visit www.umpretail.com Sponsored by
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