Issue 43 cover_Layout 1 13/07/2012 09:46 Page 1

SHOWCASING THE VERY BEST IN SCALE AIRCRAFT MODELLING

43
ISSUE
August / Sept 2012
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August / September 2012
AIR Modeller

Zdenek Sebesta’s PERFECT

POTEZ 63-11
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AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 13:38 Page 1

CONTENTS
2 Potez 63-11
Zdenek Sebesta models the French WWII reconnaissance
aircraft using the 1:48 Azur kit.

12 Corsair II TA-7
Francois Regis-Binder builds the Hobby Boss 1:72 kit.

20 Snowbound Stuka
Luc Janssen builds Hasegawa’s 1:32 scale JU87 G-2.

28 Black Widow
Great Wall Hobby’s 1:48 P-61A modelled by Franck Oudin.

36 F6F-3 Hellcat
Maciek Zywczyk builds Hasegawa’s 1:48 F6F-3.

48 Air Born
New releases.

58 Mediterranean Menace
Charles Whall builds the Eduard Bf110E in 1:48 scale.

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1
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 1

-
63
ZDENEK SEBESTA BUILDS AZUR’S 1:48 TH

POTEZ

2
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 2

-11

The Azur Company have The surface of the kit has finely engraved
recessed panel lines which seem to
always specialized
correspond with available drawings, but
primarily in models of
given that the plane was of all metal
French aircraft and have so
construction, except for the moving control
far released kits of the surfaces, I decided to add a number of rivet
Potez 63 family of aircraft lines to augment the existing surface detail.
in both 1/48th and 1/72nd
scales. For this I used the popular Rossie the
Riveter wheel set at a spacing of 0.55 mm
This series of modern twin engined aircraft and for reference various drawings were
included the Potez 63-11 reconnaissance used, especially those published in earlier
version and the Potez 630, 631 and 633 issues of the French magazine Replic and
fighter and bomber versions, however the AIR Magazine along with the pull out plans
variant I have chosen to build here is the from the latest publication on the Potez 63
Potez 63-11 reconnaissance version which by Mushroom Models Publications which is
has a massive, extensively glazed nose as excellent and in my opinion a most
its main identifying feature. The main parts necessary reference to build a detailed
of the kit are made from relatively soft model, especially as it contains a plethora
medium grey, plastic, the engines and of photos which are essential when building
small details are moulded from a detailed model. Using these I decided to
polyurethane resin and these are open the left engine and wing flaps but they
supplemented by a small photo-etched also highlight the fact that most of the other
sheet, including seat belts and small kit details require amendment or
surface details. Unfortunately, the modification! 3
instrument panel is not provided on the
photoetched sheet.
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 3

Like most modellers I started construction with the

cockpit, including the extensively glazed nose of the
aircraft. The clear parts for this nose are provided as
separate left and right sections and these were attached
to their relevant fuselage halves, resulting in two
complete left and right fuselage sections. The nose parts
are moulded from clear plastic are a great idea because
it is easy to mask appropriate windows to achieve their
very clear and simple presentation.

I recommend that the nose glazing is

masked at this early stage, not only from
the outside but from the inside too in order
to protect it while spraying the glazing in
the interior colour. Once the nose windows
have been fitted to the fuselage some
extra detailing was added to the interior
using the photos in the Mushroom book as
a guide to supplement the original kit parts
with extra details made from plastic strip
and fuse wire.

The plastic instrument panel was replaced

using my own etched part which was
prepared on my behalf by a professional
PE producer using my own design. The
defensive machine gun in the rear cockpit
position was also given additional detail.
Brass tube was used to make the gun
barrel and small details were made from
4
thin wires.
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 4

All of the interior surfaces were painted using a Medium

Grey GSI colour whilst the detail parts were picked out in
various different colours from the Vallejo paint range. To
keep the interior paint off the clear parts, Eduard masks
were used and although the basic clear parts, such as the
nose of fuselage and the main parts of the canopy were
retained, all of the other parts were cut away and rebuilt 5
from clear plastic and metal, including the entrance doors.
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 5

The wheel bays of this kit are very simplistic

and also include the top of the recess for
the wheel, which, according to the
reference doesn’t match with reality. In fact
the top of the wheel bays should simply
show the underneath of the metal skinning
covering the top surface of the wing. To
rectify this problem new wheel bays were
made up using the side walls of the original
bays as a basis to which were added
numerous details. The complex wheel legs
in the kit look very good and only require
small adjustments, however I recommend
6 that the undercarriage doors are thinned
out, which I did from the inside.
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 6

The wheel bays were painted using the French

interior colour Chamois, which corresponds
quite accurately in tone to Gunze Mr Colour
318 Radome Tan. The landing gear legs were
painted a dark grey colour and the wheel well
doors are finished in the lower surface colour
- Gris Bleu Clair. One thing worth mentioning
at this point is the fact that the tail wheel bay
on this kit needs to be opened up as it is
incorrectly moulded closed.

7
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 7

The opened wing flaps of this aircraft type were painted

in the French interior colour Chamois and this certainly
provides a colourful addition to the model. In order to
detail the flaps, completely new moving parts were
constructed from thin plastic material and PE parts
which were part of the PE set that I had exclusively
ordered to my own design. The inner wing construction
was replicated using metal sheet, plastic plates and
profiles. To add further interest and detail all of the
control surfaces were separated, adjusted and fastened
in a deflected position.

The kit engines were replaced using new

resin Gnome-Rhone 14 M engines from the
Russian company Vector and the quality of
these additional parts is extremely high
indeed, just requiring some extra wires to
achieve perfect results. However the
exhaust system had to be made
completely from scratch using pewter wires
of different diameters which was malleable
enough to form into this relatively complex
array of piping.

8
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 8

I sprayed the whole surface of the model using a base layer of

GSI Mr. Surfacer 1000. Gunze does not produce authentic
French camouflage colours so it was necessary to mix the
individual colours from the available paints according to
available documentation – especially from the French
magazine Replic.

The lower surfaces were painted in a light gray-blue colour

known as `French Gris bleu clair’/ GSI C115+ C308 whilst the
upper surface camouflage combined a grey blue colour called
`Gris bleu fonce’ - GSI C 307, with `Khaki’ GSI C 54 and a
brown called `Terre de sienne’ GSI C 369.

After spraying the colour scheme it was time to add the decals and I almost forgot to mention that the decal sheet also provides a set
these came from Techmod which produces three decal sheets for of masks for the glazing and wheels and these were applied prior
this aircraft. Each of these Techmod decal sheets includes 4 to painting the model. To weather the model and highlight the
optional markings and I used Techmod decal sheet No.48087 to rivets and recessed panel lines a Dark and Neutral Wash from the
decorate my model. The option that I chose from this sheet was an MiG Production company was utilised and the various scratches
aircraft flown by GR II/14 at the end of 1940 and the Techmod associated with operational aircraft were applied gently with
decals were of high quality with good colour representation. These aluminium and grey colours. This particular aircraft, unlike most
adhered perfectly to the surface using GSI Mr.Mark Setter and other aircraft of this type had an antenna mast mounted above the
Mr.Mark Softer which made them literally `soak’ into the surface, cockpit with wires leading to the two vertical tail surfaces and
including the small rivets to give a painted on appearance and a these antennae wires were replicated using thin nylon thread.
coat of clear gloss was used to seal the decals into place. 9
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 9

10
POTEZ63 Zdenek:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:16 Page 10

French aircraft, thanks to their attractive

camouflage colours and impressive
markings, are a significant part of any
WW2 model collection and the Potez
63.11 should definitely be included
amongst them.

11
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 1

CORSAIR II

TA-7 H

FRANCOIS REGIS - BINDER

12
1:72ND HOBBY BOSS
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 2

The Corsair II flew for the

first time in 1965 and
quickly had its baptism of
fire. The two seat version,
named TA-7 was produced
for the US Navy and the Air
National Guard for pilot
instruction. This version
was exported to several
countries including Greece
(TA-7H) and Portugal
(TA-7P).

For this model, I used the

Eduard set designed for
the Hobby Boss kit which
is comprised of two sheets
(interior and exterior). I
also retrieved Verlinden
and Eduard pieces from an
old Fujimi model (seat and
radar). From this kit, I also
took the air intake for its
more accurate shape.
Finally, an Aires set for the
single seat version was
used for the cockpit.

13
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 3

Cockpit
The cockpit is quite basic with some It should be noted that these parts whilst small cylinders on the side of each position.
instruments and side consoles supplied as theoretically attractive were actually quite Seats are duplicated from Verlinden seats.
decals. As it remains very visible with its disappointing. Critically, Eduard has They are improved with details such as
wide canopy, it is essential to increase the coloured all the parts as dark grey when specific headrests (enlarged fins for the
detail level. I started with a single seat they should be black. Secondly, the printing front cockpit). The windshield is very good
cockpit from Aires which was duplicated on my parts was blurred, so most of the and can be easily fitted without any putty.
and glued together. The rear part was parts had to be repainted. The overall finish On the other hand, the canopy has a
deleted and I used the Hobby Boss parts also lacks any raised detail. This is why I moulding seam along the top that should
instead. This allowed me to keep the TA-7 added a few switches cut from plastic be removed. For this, I used a scalpel
features and at the same time, to ease the sheet with a 0.3mm propelling stencil. For blade passed along the canopy. Then, this
insertion of the set in the fuselage. The two the pilot’s instrument panel, I used the area has been polished with Micromesh
cockpits have been glued and any gaps Aires parts which are much more accurate. and Tamiya Compound. To finish, the
filled with Milliput. Details on the side It should be noted that for the rear cockpit, canopy interior received frame made of
consoles were removed in order to be a radar scope has to be added to the Evergreen plastic card, handles and
replaced with Eduard pre-coloured Eduard part. On the back walls, details are mirrors.
photoetched parts. added such as cable, cases and the green

Radar
The radar made of resin and photoetched
parts that comes from a Verlinden set. The
main piece is detailed with plastic sheet
and copper wire.
The nose is first cut and thinned with a
spherical burr. Then hinge and structural
reinforcements are added. The radar dish
14
is a photoetched piece burnished into
shape by rubbing it with a pen.
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 4

Main wheel bay

Main Wheel bay are particularly successful.
Hobby Boss had provided many details on
its insert. It is still possible, with good
references, to enhance this area with
additional cables and boxes. Be careful
because wheel bays are not symmetrical
and each has its own features. The bays
received a Humbrol white coat followed by
a matt varnish. A grey wash is applied in
order to enhance all the details. Then a
second coat of white is painted to soften
the grey wash. Finally, raised detail and
structures were picked out in pure white
with a little brush.

Forward wheel bay

Again, Hobby Boss has paid attention to
this area. I really liked the intelligent design
with the bay moulded directly onto the air
intake and separate walls. This greatly
helps the detailing and the painting. For
this area, Eduard offers a few parts, mostly
uninteresting. Photoetched cables are not
realistic but can be used as template for
their replacements in copper wire.

Electronic bays and access doors

The model can be represented with open
electronics bays as often seen in reality. All
the bays are well detailed even if the
moulding is a little soft. The main challenge
will be to paint accurately. As all the boxes
are moulded in one block, it is necessary to
work with an extra fine brush. On the right
side, I disassembled the bay to make the
painting easier. In retrospect this was a
bad idea because I had to redo most of the
bay walls and the arrangement was
complex. looking back, there was probably
no need to complicate things. I had in my
possession the Verlinden parts for these
areas but these are mostly innacurate, so I
chose not to use them. These
compartments were painted in
zinchromate yellow. Like the wheel bay, a
grey wash was applied in order to enhance
all the details. At this stage, its time use
fine brushes and start the micro painting. In
the left bay, do not forget to add the big
oxygen bottle painted in green.
The compartment doors are nice especially
on the interior face. For more realism, it is
necessary to thin them by sanding the
exterior side. Information placards, can be
added on the inside.
Access panels for steps to the cockpit
have been drilled and the steps replaced
with plastic square strips.

Air intake
It is the main fault of this model because it
is too flattened on its interior shape. This
mistake is easily correctable if you have an
old Fujimi Corsair. I simply cut the air intake
lip and fixed it instead of the Hobby Boss
one. The lip created was then filled with
milliput. After drying for 24 hours, I sanded
the area and redid the engraving around
the air intake.

15
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 5

Refuelling probe
Hobby Boss offers a separate refuelling
probe but unfortunately moulded within its
housing, so I had to use my scalpel in order
to cut out the probe. In this process, I only
managed to save the front of the housing
and the probe was not usable anymore, so
I had to look for a substitute part. I found it
in a Trumpeter F-100 kit. This new probe
had the same diameter and a similar head.
Only the shape and the length were
changed.

Wings and flaps.

The wings are moulded with heavy riveting,
which was filled with cyanoacrylate glue.
The principle is to apply the glue along the
line to filled, wait for a few minutes and
then, with a scalpel blade remove the
surplus, leaving the glue in the hole. The
finishing is done with fine sandpaper. Be
careful not to wait too long for the glue to
dry, because it becomes hard very quickly,
making the sanding much more difficult.

The rivets lines are redone more accurately

with the Rosie the riveter tool. The flaps
have been separated from the wing and
are hollow on the internal faces. The fixed
part of the wings received a plastic strip
that allows repositioning the flaps down
and shows the hinges. The little airbrakes
on the underside and upper are
represented open. For this, it is necessary
to drill and refine the wings and create a
slot with tiny hinges.
Auxiliary generator
The original piece is accurate but lacks
sharpness, so I only kept a small part of
this piece, added cables and remade
the four bladed propeller. The bay also
received reinforcements made of
16 plastic in the interior.
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 6

Antennas and fairings

Hobby Boss have modelled a US Navy version
(TA-7C), it is important to take into account
features of the Greek version. There are two
dorsal antennas: a black small one situated
just behind the hood and a larger white one
further behind. There is no need to put the
fairing on the rear underside of the fuselage as
indicated on the instructions, but do not forget
the little fairing situated just behind the front
wheel bay. This piece is supplied in the kit (but
not used in the US version).
Regarding the parachute housing (which is
characteristic of the TA-7H version), there is
nothing given in the kit and it has to be
scratchbuilt using 4.8 mm diameter Evergreen
tube (cut through the centre). Missile tracks on
the fuselage are improved with plastic sheet
and Eduard parts.

Finally, little oversight from Hobby Boss: a

drain has to be added on the left side of the
fuselage.

Paint, Decals and Patina

The main attraction of the Greek versions are
the weathered finishes. Most pictures show
very dirty planes with colours faded by the sun.
After the masking of all the parts to be
protected, the model received a yellow
zinchromate coat which allows for the first time
to check the surfaces and to correct any
defects, and, this coat will also serve as an
undercoat for the future patina on the most
worn areas. I started the camouflage (Vietnam
type) with a grey on the underside (Humbrol
28) then, the brown (Humbrol 118) and finally
the two green (Humbrol 116 & 117).
Exhaust nozzle
The boundaries between the two layers are
The Hobby Boss exhaust nozzle is
done with paper masks.
nice. It is sufficient simply to refine the
edges. Do not forget to paint the
After 24 hours drying, I started the weathering
internal part of the fuselage in
with an anthracite Wash for the darker
zinchromate yellow before closing.
areas and light Brown for the rest.
Washes are made of Humbrol paint and
thinner. Excess is removed with a tissue
soaked with lighter
fluid.

The model is randomly spotted with a

masking product (Mr Masking Neo / Mr Hobby)
in order to create darker areas. Then, the
airframe received a coat of lightened base
colours in the center of the panels with a DH2
Sparmax airbrush. The principle is to achieve a
fine marbling.

17
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 7

Panel and rivets lines received the same

treatment but with darker base colours.
In order to be more accurate you can
use an adhesive paper sheet (Post-it),
which allows you to make particularly
fine lines. With a new scalpel blade a
scuffing is made on the most worn areas
revealing the yellow zinchromate
undercoat.

Decals are set up. I used the superb

Icarus sheet 72001 dedicated to Greek
A-7 and TA-7. The quality of the decals is
excellent and the application is very easy
between two Future layers (Klir in France)
A Humbrol matt coat is finally sprayed
over the decals.

18
TA7 Francois Binder:Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:53 Page 8

1:72ND HOBBY BOSS

CORSAIR II TA-7H

Conclusion
The last step is to fit all the small items
without disaster! To finish, I created a
small seagull in Milliput, which has landed
on the top of the tail left its tell tail
signature on the tail fin!

Bibliography
A-7D/K Corsair, Lock-On n°9, Verlinden
Production
Walk Around 44, Squadron Signal.

19
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 1

SNOWBOUND
*

HASEGAWA’S 1:32 JU87 G-2

MODELLED BY Luc Janssen
20
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 2

When I decided to build a Ju 87 G-2, I had

in mind to make a heavily weathered
winter- camouflaged tank hunter.

However, after checking different books

and publications I was very attracted by
the usual German ‘every day’ green – green
camouflage with a lot of dirt marks and oil
strains. To obtain a good contrast, I
decided to make a green-green Ju 87 G-2
parked on a snow covered airstrip. I found
many photographs of such scenes.

21
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 3

Building
Although the Hasegawa kit is beautiful and well
detailed, I wanted to change some parts and I
used following after- markets sets, namely:

Robert Schatton 37 mm gun barrels

Eduard Ju 87 G-2 Stuka Interior
Eduard Ju 87 D/G Stuka Cockpit Set
Voyagermodel Weighted wheels

Assembling the model is fairly easy as the

parts fit together well and only a minor
correction with putty is needed. The Eduard
Cockpit Set is extremely well detailed, but
rather difficult to install nicely. I went for a very
good cleaning of the parts and different
dry-fits of the whole cockpit interior to be sure
of the correct construction and a perfect
installation in the fuselage when closing.

Once convinced of the right fit of the parts of the

interior set, I assembled the whole using Super
Glue. In the left fuselage I positioned the side wall
with the floor while the right fuselage received only
the side wall. Some parts were left apart to be
painted separately.

For the seat belts I wanted to use the Eduard set,

but the general impression of these belts, although
extremely well detailed, is too artificial! With lead
foil from an old toothpaste tube I made new belts
and formed more realistic poses. These new belts
were hand painted, some decals were applied,
coated with varnish and weathered.

As the Germans sometimes dismantled the wheel

covers when mud build up could cause trouble, I
decided to present an uncovered landing gear.
Although I had bought an after -market set of gear
forks from Master Casters, they did not impress
me and I went for scratch building! With thick
sprue I made rough U-shaped forms using the
kitchen oven and gravity force! The sprue was
placed on a rod with the right diameter and put in
the oven. When the sprue began to weaken and
bend nicely over the rod, I opened the oven to
stop the warming up and I obtained the basic
form. With lots of sanding (and lots of patience) I
22 succeeded in making good looking gear forks on
which I added the necessary details.
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 4

The gun pods from the kit need further detailing

*
as well, thus I added some small bits and
pieces and wiring. The holes in the attachment
brackets were drilled out and the brass 37 mm
barrels dry fitted to be sure the finished pods
would have the correct look once painted and
installed under the wings.

For the landing light I used a small piece of

Acrylic that I prepared to fit precisely in the
existing recess in the wing leading edge. The
back and the sides of this piece were then
sanded and highly polished and glued in the
recess. Once the glue had hardened, I formed
the correct look of the landing light cover by
sanding and polishing the Acrylic. The
navigation lights, which are not provided in the
kit, were made from the shafts of old coloured
tooth brush.

To give the model a more dynamic look, I changed the angle of

the elevators in the upward position. The separation of the
elevators and the mass balances was done with a dental tool with
very sharp point. By repeatedly running the point of this needle-
shaped tool over the joints, the parts come loose without problems
and with sharp edges. The elevator trims now also had to be
adapted and I made new ones from sheet styrene. The kit trim
actuators were partly replaced by stretched copper wire.

As the kit actuators of the flaps and ailerons are on the heavy side,
I replaced them by pins. At the top of the tail I added the
attachment point for the wire antenna. 23
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 5

Painting
Reference pictures of Stukas show different ways of applying the Using the camouflage pattern printed on the building instructions
camouflage colours although, knowing the ‘Deutsche of the kit, I cut out the Dark Green parts of the pattern on
Gründlichkeit’, the pattern is always the same. Some photos show aluminium foil, creating masks. Then, using the tape used to apply
neat lines between the colours, both between Dark Green (RLM mirrors to walls or cupboards, I put these aluminium masks on the
71) and Black Green (RLM 70) upperside and the Light Blue (RLM model (as the ‘mirror-tape’ is very adhesive, it always has to be
65) underside while other photos show sprayed paints limits with a applied on Tamiya tape before to be put on the model itself). This
‘misty transition’ as well between the upper side colours as way, a small gap is created between the surface to be painted and
between the upper- and underside colours. I decided to go for the the mask and a nice and constant separation is obtained between
‘misty transition’ upperside with a sharp line with the Light Blue the colours. The masks in place, I sprayed the Black Green (RLM
underside. I do not paint models using the ‘pre-shading system’ 70) with low pressure ( 0.5 bar), carefully keeping the airbrush
but prefer to give colour tone effects with pastels. I started to give vertically on the edges of the aluminium covers.
the model a coat of Dark Green (RLM 71) on the complete upper
surfaces.

The next step were the Light Blue (RLM 65)

undersides of the model. After masking the
painted Dark and Black Green upper sides with
Tamiya tape, the Light Blue was sprayed with a
sharp demarcation line as result. I painted the
gun pods following the same working method.
The main- and tail landing gear were coated with
Green-Grey (RLM 02). I sprayed the complete
model and the loose individual parts with a first
coat of Gloss varnish (1part Varnish – 1.5 parts of
thinner) and, after thorough drying, a second coat
(1 part Varnish – 3 parts thinner) was applied.

24
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 6

*
After the decaling and first weathering I gave the model another 2 coats
of a mixture of Dull and Gloss Varnish, the first coat consisting in 2 parts
Varnish (5 parts Dull + 1.5 parts Gloss) with 3 parts thinner and the
second coat in 1 part of the same mixture and 2 parts of thinner. The
visible parts of the interiors of the model were painted Black Grey (RLM
66) and dry brushed with a mixture of Grey and White oil paint. To finish
the paint job of the interior, the Eduard Stuka interior photo edge set with
many dials and placards is very attractive, but in fact too detailed and
very fragile. I used only a limited number of these dials and placards and
hand painted the majority of the visible details. The complete interior was
coated with a mixture of varnish ( 5 parts Dull + 2 parts Gloss) and the
paint- chipping effects in the cockpit were created with Aluminium,
applied with a small brush and a small sponge.

I used the decal set of EagleCals Ju 87 G Stuka and

applied the decals following the proven Micro Set &
Micro Sol system. To avoid any silvering of the decals, I
kept puncturing the decals with a needle while putting
Micro Sol over and over again until the results were
perfect and no silvering could be seen. To loosen the
decals, I always use hot water instead of luke warm
water, as indicated on the decal instructions.

For the weathering of a model, I use my own system which The panel lines were accentuated with Dark Brown and
consists of 2 steps, the first on the glossy coat of Varnish and the Black colour pencils, still on the glossy surfaces. On the
second on a lightly shiny finishing coat of Varnish. With pastel places where the aircraft is boarded or serviced, some
powder sticks you can buy in every shop for drawing materials, I dirt or oil patches were simulated.
make pastel powder sanding the bars on sanding paper glued on
a thicker piece of sheet styrene. Once the first weathering is completed and the basic
look of the almost finished model seems good, the earlier
Depending on the colours of the model, I use darker or lighter mentioned finishing coats of varnish ( 5 parts Gloss + 1.5 part
tones. For the upper sides of this model, I used a mixture of Burnt Dull) are sprayed over the entire model. On the final coat a
Umber, Raw Sienna and Yellow and another mixture of Burnt second weathering was done (more carefully than the first one)
Umber, Grey and Black. The undersides were treated with a this time with Dark Brown and Black pastel powder. The heavy
mixture of Blue and Grey. Working with pastels on a glossy surface exhausts strains and other less pronounced airflow strains were
has the big advantage that, even with intense weathering, the simulated and some dirt and mud patches on the inner sides of
surface is not affected too heavily and ‘overdones’ can be the wings were created as well.
25
corrected by cleaning with a wet cloth.
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 7

Final Touches
All details as antenna, pitot tube,
boarding steps, gun pods, wheels, flap-
and aileron balances, etc. were put in
place. I came to the terrible realisation
that the forward canopy did not fit over
the glazed rear part behind it! On the
internet I checked other already
completed Hasegawa models and
noticed that other model builders have
encountered the same problem as most
forward canopies are closed. The few
open canopies to be seen indeed show
a gap between the canopy and the
fuselage. To solve this problem, I
constructed the sliding slots for the
forward canopy and added sliding pins
to the canopy itself. This way the canopy
could be installed more correctly. For the
rear canopy it is important to remember
that the rear gunner’s machine guns
were only installed with the
canopy almost closed.

26
Big Stuka Air 42Luc Janssen (Q8):Layout 1 13/07/2012 12:41 Page 8

The Base

*
Simulating a snow covered base was fairly simple. With a broad
brush I applied a thick coat of satin White paint on a piece of
uneven vinyl carpeting. The paint still wet, I abundantly scattered
icing sugar over the surface and created some tire tracks by
rolling 2 wheels, attached together respecting the same distance
of the wheels of the model, over the thick layer of paint and icing
sugar. Once completely dry, the excess of icing sugar was
simply wiped away with a brush.

I weathered the snow covered base with some light pastels and
constructed an ‘in the field made’ sledge, painted and weathered
it and loaded it with 2 barrels, some cases and the MG’s of the
rear gunner. Now the Stuka and the sledge were placed on the
base, et voilà . . . my Hasegawa Ju 87 G – 2 was finished!

References
Aero Detail 11 Junkers Ju 87 D/G Stuka
Airlife Junkers Ju 87 Stuka
Famous Airplanes of the world Junkers Ju 87 Stuka
Kagero Junkers Ju 87 Vol II +III
Luftwaffe Colours Stuka
Squadron/Signal Ju 87 Stuka in action 27
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:19 Page 1

GREAT WALL HOBBY’S NEW 1:48 P-61A

Black W i d o w
KIT MODELLED BY FRANCK OUDIN

Great Wall Hobby is a new player

on the modelling market, with the
release of this P-61 Black Widow it
will easily replaces the old
Monogram kit of the 70s, superbly
moulded in grey styrene with crisp
details, superb clear parts, a photo
etched fret and a decal sheet for
two aircraft based in the ETO.

28
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:19 Page 2

Naturally as soon the kit was released a lot of

critics appeared on many different internet
forums concerning some areas of the P-61,
which to me are fine and have been corrected
since, this proves that GWH is a reactive
company. So let’s see what’s in the box and
how well it goes together….

29
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 15:46 Page 3

BUILDING
Interior-Fuselage the gap between these doors. Don’t forget to glue the rear widow
Nothing is missing from the comprehensive interior, with some from the inside, and so far the fit is really good! The bulkhead and
great details such as the seat with PE seat belts, all the radio the radar are prepared, painted and glued in place depending on
instruments, access ladder from the front to rear of the plane, the the version that you will model the radar will disappear under a
complete inside is painted with Gunze H-58 and Gunze-2. For all coat of paint, but the aircraft that I choose will show the inside, the
the surrounding details a light wash is applied, to give depth to the radar is glued a little angled to give a little life. The clear parts are
detail. The four machine guns are prepared and painted at this prepared and glued in place, then I noticed a small step on the
stage, the front landing gear should be added at this stage but will front windshield and the rear also, nothing really to worry about,
be put aside to simplify the painting later on. Once all is glued but does need to be corrected, so I glued a small plastic strip and
inside we can close the fuselage, but be careful as the four canons gently sanded it to shape until I was satisfied, do protect the clear
have to slide inside the four holes under the belly of the aircraft so while you are doing this operation, as you can easily scratch the
extra care is required for this operation, the access doors can be canopy. The glass nose is glued, and does not need special care
left open but I decided to close them to not break the lines of the as the parts fit very well.
plane, same for the rear access door, a small plastic stripe will fill

Wings Assembly
Beside a nice clean up, and gluing the parts together with the All the elements are now ready to be put together to give the
flaps, there’s nothing much to do here, just make sure to plug the shape to this great aircraft. First I glued the respective boom and
holes for the external tanks (if you don’t want to use them) there wing, some touch up has to be done with some Mr Surfacer 1200
are four holes, so choose the combination you want to do with to obtain a perfect fit, once done on both sides the assembly can
the inside or outside engines as the plane was flown with both start. I glued one of the wings to the central fuselage, let it dry
configurations. The PE air brake can be glued in the open or properly (as there is not a locating post) the wing is just
closed position, I choose the closed which look better to me, and positioned and glued, the same operation is done on the other
less fragile when painting. side, finally the central aileron can be put in place, again some
touch ups are done with Surfacer 1200,but nothing serious, the
The booms general fit is just perfect.
Again, not much work on this area as the fit is really good, the
wheel well is painted Gunze H-58, washed and weathered, then
the boom can be closed with the wheel well inserted. To avoid a
‘tail-sitter’ I inserted some lead between the wheel well and the
engine and set them into PVA glue. The moving surface can be
assembled at this stage, same for the central aileron.

30
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:19 Page 4

Engines Details
One of the main criticisms of this kit is the small opening of the All the details are prepared, painted and gloss varnished such as
engine cowling, so I replace these parts with True Details set Ref. the landing gear, gear doors, wheels, top turret and machine guns.
48547 which also contains the crankcase, two set of Curtiss In the first P-61 release from GWH, the top turret is not included in
electric propellers blades, two spinners and two set of distributors. the kit, so I managed to get the turret from an old Monogram kit
The difficulty with this set is to remove the resin plug from the and change the machine guns barrels with the sumptuous ‘Master’
cowling, I utilised a lathe at my workplace to gently remove the (from Poland) brass barrels, the look and precision of these parts
resin excess. I also reworked the plastic part in order to adapt the are just superb. All parts put aside the model is now ready to be
crankcase and the spinner. painted.
With all the parts ready, the painting process is done with
Aluminium for the cylinder, Gunze H-339 for the crankcase and Below True Details set ref 48547 which contains the
steel colour for the exhausts. crankcase two set of Curtiss electric propellers blades, two
The blades are painted at this stage too; the complete engine is spinner and two set of distributors
built and weathered, then put aside before the painting stage.

Right To turn the nose wheel the front strut was

cut and a section of metal rod inserted.

31
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:19 Page 5

32
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:19 Page 6

PAINTING
This operation is fairly straightforward, as the choice of finish is dry the plane is polished with a soft cloth and gloss varnished with
either overall black or the Olive drab/Neutral grey. If you really enjoy Gunze H-30, then the decals can be applied. I chose an aircraft
your painting and weathering the olive drab is the way to go, for from the 6th NFS based in Saipan in late 1944, called “Moon
the leading edge of the wings, I sprayed a coat of Alclad airframe Happy” with a superb nose art, the decals are from a new decal
aluminium first, and then with a piece of foam and Mr Neo sheet produced by Squadron/Superscale ref MS481259, printed by
masking applied some dots here and there. Then the painting can Cartograf they settle very well on the model.
start, a nice layer of Gunze H-53 is applied on the bottom wings, Once dry all the water stains are removed and another gloss coat
booms and central fuselage, after a good 24 hours drying session, is applied to seal the decals.
the Olive Drab Gunze H-53 is applied free-hand. Once thoroughly

Weathering:
Weathering such a subject like this is just
pure pleasure as these planes were
exposed to really harsh conditions with the
sun and tropical weather, humidity and sea
salt air, so as usual a mix of colours very
diluted is applied on different patches
randomly with different shades of light grey
to sand yellow, just use your imagination
and always look at pictures of the real
aircraft. Some stains of oil and fuel are
applied with a oil wash and diluted ink with
a small brush. Finally, scuff marks are
applied with silver pencil and some dust
applied with acrylic colours and a small 33
piece of foam achieving a natural effect.
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:20 Page 7

Final touches:
All the remaining details are added to the model, landing gear,
landing gear doors antennas, top turret etc…
A 0.05mm antenna wire is glued in place and finally the top canopy
is placed to complete the model.

Conclusions:
Being for me the first model from GWH that I have built, I was really
pleasantly surprised by the excellent general quality of the
complete package and the general look of the model. Once
complete the model is big and does give an excellent replica of
this aircraft which didn’t leave it’s mark in the history of aviation as
it only flew for no more that two years, but surely should have a
place in every collection of USAF modellers.
This model has been corrected in a few places since it’s initial
release, a second boxing appeared on the market. Some
aftermarket products will soon be available for this kit.

So if you fancy building this big beast I can only encourage you to
do so, you will not be disappointed.

Special thank you to Squadron for providing me the resin set for
the engine cowlings and the decals sheet, Master from Poland for
the superb machines guns barrels, and as always, Bob Brown from
MDC for all the Gunze products used to build and paint this model.

References: Gunze:
Squadron: resin set H-52 Olive Drab
TD48548 H-53 Neutral Grey
H-58 Interior Green
decals MS481259 H-339 Engine Grey
H-77 Tyres black
Master from Poland: H-406 RLM04 Yellow
34
AM-48001 H-2 Black
P61 black widow Franch Oudin Q8:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:20 Page 8

35
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:34 Page 36

S E GAWA
H A
1:48 Modelled by MACIEK ZYWCZYK

36
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:34 Page 37

F6F-3
HELLCAT
One of the most famous fighter planes of World War 2 was without doubt the
Grumman F6F Hellcat. A great design, history and a wealth of painting options
make it a very popular subject for modellers. Once I had seen pictures of Hellcat
in standard three colour US Navy camouflage with a beautiful mouth and blood-
shot eyes painted on the engine cover, I immediately made the decision to build
a replica. Of course, realization of this idea came much later.

37
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 38

The Kit
The paint scheme that caught my attention was used by VF-27 on This model was built some years ago, at that time there were
several planes. Some of them carried three colour camouflage several Hellcat kits in my favourite 1:48 scale. The best choice in
and others later in the overall Sea Gloss Blue scheme. Despite my opinion was Hasegawa. It’s very good model, but not without
searching the Internet and many publications about the Hellcat, I problems. The Landing gear bays of original aircraft are rather
could find only one photograph of the subject, showing only the complex, so reproduction with injection moulds is difficult, but the
engine cover. There are many illustrations in various publications, extreme degree of simplification here is not acceptable. I couldn’t
depicting mostly the machine with the number “17”, which was find any aftermarket sets, so this area had to be detailed from
flown by one of the aces - Richard Stambook. Unfortunately they scratch. Shortly after my kit was finished, two new sets were
also show many differences, so the exact configuration and introduced: Eduard photoetch and Aires resin. Both enable you to
details of paint scheme are very hard to determine. Eventually I make new correctly detailed gear bays. Too late for me, as I don’t
decided finally to rely on the versions in the Kagero publication. plan to make another Hellcat!
The plane I was interested in was F6F-3, but during the production I have built a Grumman Avenger with folded wings, but the result
lot of small design changes were introduced. The differences are was not very eye-catching. The outline of a plane is not
clearly explained in Kagero’s “Aero Detail” publication, but they recognizable with the whole fuselage is hidden by the wings.
are based on serial numbers. Since I was unable to determine That’s why I didn’t incorporate this feature although a great set for
this, I had to guess. I decided to build my kit in late folding the wings by Dangerboy Hobbies was available at that
F6F-3 configuration: no lower cowl flaps, no side time, but to give some interest to the model, a set of armament
exhaust bulges, landing light in leading edge, and bays from Teknics was purchased.
vertical antenna mast (not tilted forward).

38
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 39

Fuselage
The cockpit from box is not bad, but because I managed to get an out of production
Aires resin set, I used it. I combined the resin parts with the details from the Eduard
etched set. Because this version of Hellcat had windows behind cockpit, I decided to
detail up the area behind pilot’s seat. It was done with scratchbuilt plastic parts and
some wire. The tail wheel bay was detailed the same way. Not long after my build was
finished new, much better (with the area visible through side widows) cockpit set, was
released by Aires.

39
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 40

Interior painting
I used the equivalent of FS 34151 Interior Green from Xtra colour for which Testors 1584 was used. Internal parts of rear fuselage
range - X117 for the cockpit. Washes with oil paints and dry were painted light grey, which should be like Grumman grey. It’s
brushing techniques were used to give some depth to the detail. close to FS 16440, so it’s equivalent from Testors was used. Main
For the cockpit, most sources suggest interior green, but wheel bays were usually painted the same
armament bays and area behind cockpit are another story. The colour as the surrounding area, so white
more sources I read, the more confused I was. Finally I decided to was the only choice. The tail wheel
paint the gun bays and insides of cowlings Zinc Chromate Yellow, bay was painted Zinc Chromate
Yellow with a white overspray.

40
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 41

Wings
I wanted to display my Hellcat with flaps upper and other to lower wing halves. After were wheels which were simply too thin.

down, opened armament bays and correct the flaps were deleted the rear profile of They were cut in half and glued together

wheel bays. It meant rather heavy wing had to be created. I didn’t like gun again after plastic disc was inserted. Some

modification of the wings, so this work bay castings, so only the etched parts and sanding followed and the tread was

should be planned carefully to avoid any plastic card were used to make walls. restored using mini saw for plastic.

geometry problems and to enable painting During this process the fit of lower and The flap parts were glued together, scrap

and assembly. Flaps and gun covers were upper wing halves was checked plastic was used to fill gaps and the

cut off, also almost all moulded in details frequently. After the basic shapes were correct shape was obtained using a

of gear bays was deleted, only the base for ready the wheel and armament bays were sanding stick. Gaps in wing profile were

legs were preserved to avoid problems detailed with scratchbuilt items, plastic cut to accommodate imitation hinges.

with assembly and geometry. Appropriate card and copper wire were the main Steel wire was used to connect the flaps

areas were thinned to create more scale materials used. I also didn't like the guns, and wing, after some fitting the correct flap

thickness edges. Main walls were created so an Aires set was purchased separately position was achieved and then hinges

using plastic card, some of them fitted to and fitted to the gun bay. Another problem were detailed.

41
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 42

42
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 43

Airframe assembly
At this stage fuselage halves could be joined, super glue was I decided to detail up the plastic kit engine instead of using a resin
used for this task. Some sanding and rescribing of panel lines replacement. After all not much of it will be visible on the finished
followed. Since I devoted some attention to the cockpit, I wanted model. Lots of reviewers and modellers have pointed out the
to display the canopy in the open position. Unfortunately, the wrong shape of the engine cowling in the front view. As it is not
plastic part is too thick, so a Squadron vacformed replacement correct, I added a corrected engine cowling made by Cutting
was achieved. After it was cut off carefully, frames were Edge. It looks better, but some cleaning was necessary. Also
strengthened with some plastic strips. Only the sliding portion cowling flaps from an etched set were incorporated and small
form the Squadron canopy was used, and the windshield from box details added.
was glued to the fuselage. Appropriate areas were masked off
with EZ Masks. Painting and final assembly
Wing halves were also glued together and surface detail restored. White was airbrushed unevenly on the grey plastic to create some
Fuselage and wing fit was good, so subassemblies were joined shading. Then it was masked off, upper surfaces were sprayed
without any problems. Horizontal stabilizers were also fitted. Other with mix of grey and brown paint, and further camouflage colours
small items like gun and wheel bay covers, flaps were prepared applied the same way as the white. Humbrol and Model Masters
for painting. Appropriate areas were masked off. enamels were used. After the airframe had dried it was airbrushed
with Humbrol clear gloss from the bottle, because it’s not

43
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 44

yellowing as the one from the can. It’s a different

kind of paint, it seems to be always wet, but it’s a
great coat for decals. An Aeromaster decal set
was used as it provides markings for Stambook’s
aircraft. I couldn’t find many images of original
VF-27 Hellcats with the shark mouth. The shapes
of eye decals were trimmed to correct their shape
and after application retouched with brush.
Microset and Sol were used to help decals
conform to models surface, whole process went
smoothly. The Number “17” on right wing was
painted on. Once dry a clear coat was airbrushed
and decal film edges sanded slightly. The process
was repeated until smooth surface was achieved.
Exhaust stains were airbrushed with different
shades of grey and brown. Then whole airframe
was sprayed with clear matt Pactra and some
weathering added using dry brushing
techniques. Panel lines were darkened with
artist’s oil paints, but only in areas near the
engine, were most liquid leakages, oil stains and
other weathering occurs. Other panel lines were
darker due to initial shading and they were left
untouched. I tried to replicate characteristic effect
of burned metal near exhaust pipes with oil
paints. I’m satisfied with the end result. Finally the
whole kit was airbrushed with mix of clear gloss
and matt Pactra.

In the final stage all small details were

assembled. It’s great kit but oversimplified in
some areas. Use of aftermarket details is highly
recommended. It was fun to build and looks great
in my collection.

44
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 09:35 Page 45

45
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AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:50 Page 48

AIR BORN new releases

Zvezda 1:72 MI-24A HIND

Another fine HIND from Russia's Zvezda, this release is the MI-24A blades themselves come moulded with realistic droop which looks
version of attack helicopter. Zvezda’s kits still have the no- excellent. Clear parts come bagged for protection and are well
nonsense approach of many Eastern European producers but the also crisp and well moulded. Decals are a weak point of the kit
kits themselves just get better and better. The moulding finesse of not being to the same standard as the plastic I’m afraid with two
this kit is as good as anything you’ll see; particularly impressive Russian options on offer which may look better in position over the
are the ultra fine panel lines and scale thickness to the cowlings camo pattern. These Zvezda HINDs have great respect with
which can be left open displaying a fully detailed engine. Some helicopter modellers and still to my knowledge are the only 1:72
very fine and small parts will keep you on your toes but you’ll have kits of the subject with the correct canted fuselage and offer
a very finely detailed model from the box, even without fantastic detail straight from the box, superb beautifully detailed
photoetch.The inclusion of quality pilot figures, which rather than kits and very good value for money. Thanks to The Hobby
looking like an afterthought match the rest of the kit for quality,is a Company who import Zvezda kits into the UK.
nice inclusion The rotor head also displays fine detail and the

Italeri 1:48 MC.200 Saetta 2a Serie

The quirky little Saetta (lightning) does make a lovely model in cowl can be left with a panel removed to reveal the multi-part
1:48 and thus has been covered by several manufacturers, Italeri FIAT radial. Positional wing flaps are a nice touch (although the tail
surely the obvious manufacturer of this famous little Italian. I must remains fixed) and the landing gear is nicely done with weighted
admit to not knowing the differences with the 2a version which tyres and photoetched parts. A three part canopy allows an open
this release depicts, but do know this still looks a very nice kit display option and the sharp decal sheet offers four Italian
indeed. A reasonable number of parts offers a speedy but well versions with attractive camo patterns to test your freehand
48 detailed build from the two sprues, a photoetched fret offering a airbrush abilities. A really nice looking kit but I do hate those
boost (mainly the cockpit) in the detail stakes, the multi layered photographic instruction plans! Thanks to the Hobby Company,
instrument panel should be particularly nice. The bulbous engine importers of Italeri kits into the UK.
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 49

Airfix 1:48 Westland Lynx AH-7

Not having seen Airfix's earlier releases of the Navy Lynx we were moulded-on seatbelts and decal instruments present, but the
keen to get our hands on the Army AH-7 version which is recent front office looks decent from the box. As mentioned, the interior
to the market, but as even Airfix had none in stock this surely quilting looks superb as do the natural looking seat cushions, all
bodes well for sales! Hobby Link Japan to the rescue with a can be shown-off with twin sliding doors as positionable separate
sample in a rather fetching and stout package (micro-flute parts. Another option is to display folded blades with the rotor
corrugated if you must know…). Inside are four pleasingly coloured head and intakes showing good detail. Missile pods and GPMG
sprues and one in clear, a decal sheet to mark three versions and look nice and will give a purposeful look to the finished model. The
a nice fold-out painting and marking guide. As this is our first look sprue runners and attachment points are quite chunky and some
at an Airfix Lynx I must say we were pretty much stunned at the of the two hundred and thirty-odd parts will require some careful
finesse of moulding and level of detail of this kit, as good as surgery to remove intact. Airfix tend to market their products at
anything released of late by any manufacturer with sharp in fine the more mainstream / toy store market, this is one seriously good
detail throughout especially across the airframe surfaces and kit that the more serious (read fussy!) modeller won't be
nicely rendered quilted interior panels. Starting with the cockpit, disappointed with. Excellent!
the tinkerers among us will find room for improvement with

Dragon 1:32 Messerschmitt Bf.110D-3

Dragon have released another version of their impressive large windows. The kit is not without its niggles however. The exhaust
scale Bf 110s, this time its the D-3 which featured the underbelly pipes are moulded with solid ends, fortunately Quickboost offer
ETC 500 bomb rack, extended fuselage tail and new wing corrected versions. All the control services are moulded in place
mounted fuel tanks. The kit is still very impressive with very which will speed up assembly but will frustrate those who want to
detailed engines and separate cowlings and a superbly detailed angle the rudders or drop the flaps. The kit comes with a choice
cockpit complete with photoetched seat belts. The nose MG17 of four different schemes including an Iraqi aircraft but you will
mountings are actuately replicated as are the belly mounted need to find your own tail swastikas. Still a very impressive kit but I
20mm MG FF. Surface detail is excellent with impeccable panel am sure I am not alone in wishing that rather than offering
line detail but not a fully rivetted finish. Two large clear sprues different C/D versions Dragon would release a G-4 Nightfighter in
49
provide the canopy parts which can be modelled open or closed this scale, that would be something!
and one feature I really like are the optional open sliding side
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 50

new releases

Italeri 1:72 AS.532 Couger

Another re-vamped tooling including a 'Super Decal Sheet' from prominent and the quality of the clear parts certainly matches the
Italeri here with their version of the updated Puma / Eurocopter. Not rest of the plastic. The instructions highlight throughout the four
having the original version of this kit to hand we can't vouch for the possible versions which can be built from this kit, Swedish 3rd
tooling upgrades to the original release but the two pale grey Helicopter Squadron 2006, Republic of Singapore Air Force, 125th
sprues are high quality and typical of Italeri's helicopter kits Squadron 2011, Spanish Army Helicopter Btn. 2008 and a French
promising a straightforward build with very good levels of detail, Army version from 1996. The decal sheet is small for one of Italeri's
surely sharper than the older Airfix / Heller release. Airframe detail is 'Super' sheets but quality is first rate. Probably the least exciting of
very subtle with fine rivets and panel lines as close to 1:72 as could our trio of choppers in this issue but competition is stiff ! A very
be expected. As with the majority of 'copter kits the clear glazing is decent release of the subject nevertheless.

Meng 1:72 Mansyu Ki-98

Fancy something different? This little piston engine experimental undercarriage retracted or raised and the expected design of two-
aircraft from Japan appeared late in 1945 and shares design part fuselage and tail sections. The Meng Kayaba is reported to fit
features with the sleek Shinden fighter but with it's unique twin-tail together very well and I'd expect this kit will do just that also giving
and retractable tricycle landing gear gives a very unusual look a really simple, well detailed project and with not a lot of available
indeed. This is Meng Models of China's second aircraft kit, we've reference we can forget the worry of any extra work or
had some insight into the company with some of their armour kit corrections. Three striking schemes are offered on the top-quality
releases and this kit follows suit for the high quality presentation instructions and decal sheet which I can only presume are
and production. The excellent box-art reveals two simple pale speculative as the prototype appears to have been destroyed to
grey sprues, a clear canopy and decal sheet. Moulding is first rate avoid the development falling into Russian hands. Great to see
50 with nice fine surface detail including delicate rivets and nice genuine 'new' kits on the market and especially when they're of
feathered edges to control surfaces (which are designed in a fixed such nice quality.
position). The simple assembly offers the usual option of
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 51

Revell 1:72 B-17F 'Memphis Belle'

Maybe your first thought (as mine was) is remembering how much reduces them to a realistic looking level and rivets may have been
I enjoyed the movie many years ago and the general public too much to expect- a job for the masochists amongst you! This is
interest it created ( in the UK we're waiting to see if 'Red Tails' has quite an involving build due to the extensive interior detail and
the same effect). So what of Revell's kit of the legendary B-17? An obvious marathon of masking with all that glass but a very
obvious kit to follow the G version released a while back, this kit satisfying and value for money kit. Revell have also included an
still impresses on opening the box, even more so than the original alternative marking to the Memphis Belle with another famous B-
new breed of B-17 as the sprues are moulded in a more friendly 17 'Shamrock Special' on the quality decal sheet. My small gripe
(than the silver) light grey which gives a much better impression of with this kit is the thick appearance of the clear nose, the
the fine surface detail. Great features of this kit (as with the G transparent sprue is well done but this is such a prominent feature
version I built back in issue 34) are the full interior detail including on the finished model which I'm not sure how to best overcome.
the option to display with an open bomb-bay, and multi-part Still a very impressive kit on this latest outing with the bonus of
engines. The design of the wing spars is excellent and the overall being very affordable and widely available. You really can't ask for
fit of the larger components very good indeed remembering no more! Revell model kits are available from all good toy and model
need to pop the top off the filler, a little sanding and polishing of retailers. For further information visit www.revell.eu or email
the joints sufficed. As with many small scale kits the panel gaps [email protected]
and surface details may look a little 'out' at first, but the painting

Airfix 1:72 Supermarine Spitfire F Mk.22

'Airfix' and 'Spitfire' are words that go hand-in-hand in our hobby from more expensive kits. The small clear sprue is equally
and will give many modellers of a certain age that warm nostalgic impressive with an open canopy option included. Decals are the
feeling- how many of us cut our modelling-teeth on one of those icing on the cake, printed by Cartograf the quality is top-notch and
little blister packed bunch of pale blue sprues? Here's a brand new we're offered two versions of post-war aircraft which weren't
production for the twenty first century, the principle of kits remains based far from us here at AIR Modeller: No.607 (Co. Durham)
the same but the latest tooling technology has seen Airfix Squadron, RAF Ousten 1948 and No.603 (Edinburgh) RAF
producing some very nice new kits under the Hornby group Turnhouse 1951. Some very fine stencilling and general markings
banner. The compact and colourful little box houses three pale are also included. It's a pleasure to see Airfix producing such
grey sprues with a pleasing matt finish and even more pleasing is quality kits which will appeal to both their 'toy shop' mass market
the fine detail, very fine panel lines, beautifully thin prop blades, and the more serious modeller, if only my eyesight was as good
wheel well detail, weighted tyres etc, many features you'd expect as it was when I built my first Airfix kits! 51
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 52

new releases

Revell 1:72 Seaking Mk.41 (45 years SAR)

Revell's well respected Seaking kit gets a new lease of life with instrument facias particularly well rendered. A sprue of
special decals representing one of the Kiel based air sea rescue armourments is still in the box should you wish to build a different
machines of the 5th German Naval Air Squadron of 2003. This kit's version using aftermarket decals. The decals in this release are
re-release will be welcomed by Seaking builders as at first excellent to represent the Anniversary aircraft but a nice touch is
inspection you get pretty much what you'd need in the box to that another set of markings is included to produce an
produce most versions, certainly more predominant features such experimental four tone scheme (German Marine again) from 1986.
as the two versions of radar dome and tail rotor. This kit shows no Great out of the box detail with parts for other versions included.
signs of ageing at all, the nice mat finished styrene really shows At Revell's great value for money, stock-up while you can if you
the fine detail, still impressive is the delicate airframe rivet detail love the Seaking. Revell model kits are available from all good toy
(also extending to the underside of the fuselage and the amount and model retailers. For further information visit www.revell.eu or
of interior detail for such a reasonably priced kit, seating and email [email protected]

Revell 1:72 Supermarine Stranraer

If you're a flying boat fan, you're sure to have acquired the vintage looks very clean considering and the complex fuselage shape
Matchbox kit in 1:72 of the Stranraer at some point (first released makes for a very attractive model and also quite sizeable in 1:72.
thirty four years ago!) this new release from Revell is a bit of a One thing that's sure to be past it's best if you have the old kit is
mixed blessing as it is that very same kit and not a new state-of- the decals, Revell provide a very nice sheet with two versions
the-art tooling, good news is that the Matchbox kit is a decent old including rows of turn-buckles for the wing rigging which must be
thing anyway and this boxing will be easy to get your hands on. a touch over-scale for 1:72? Still a decent kit of the old girl and
The four pale grey sprues look so much better than the multi- with some extra work could be a lovely display piece. Revell
coloured Matchbox offerings of old, and although some of the model kits are available from all good toy and model retailers. For
detail is crude by today's standards you still have a very solid base further information visit www.revell.eu or email [email protected]
52 to build on should you wish to add some refinement. Moulding
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 53

Fieseler Fi 156 Storch 1938 - 1945 Published by Mushroom Models Publications

By Dariusz Karnas ISBN 978-83-61421-47-4
Softback B5 portrait format, 176 pages www.mmpbooks.biz
The famous long-legged liaison aircraft 'Storch' comes under the aircraft focussing on different sections in detail for great modelling
spotlight with this new MMP release in the chunky little 'Yellow help should you be detailing one of the available kits (Tamiya's
Series'. These MMP books are packed full of excellent reference, 1:48 and Tristar's 1:35 being excellent recently tooled kits). MMP
this being no exception with everything you could want to aid a are wise with their inclusion of 1:35 plans to suit the Tristar kit (an
modelling project with all of the war-time versions covered. Each unusual scale aimed at armour modellers spreading their wings
version is detailed with descriptive text, period photographs and a with great diorama potential), these are printed on separate
hugh selection of colour profiles along with technical details folded sheets along with 1:48 and 1:72 drawings. Another
backed by drawings. A good portion of the book is dedicated to recommended one-stop reference from the very affordable MMP
colour 'walk-around' shots of a selection of preserved and restored range.

Airfix 1:72 Dogfight Double Sea Harrier FRS.1 & A-4P Skyhawk
Thirty years anniversary of the Falklands War is commemorated wheel bay detail to the underside, good detail carries on with the
by this Airfix set of the British and Argentine foes. The Harrier is a airbrakes, landing gear and a selection of ordnance being nicely
couple of years old now but the Skyhawk is new to the Airfix rendered. The Harrier, for me, is marred by those heavy panel
catalogue and the comparison between the two kits certainly lines, it does look a nice kit other than that and has a few
shows Airfix to be heading in the right direction. An attractive advantages over the Esci/ Italeri kit (which in the last issue I
open-ended outer contains a sturdy inner carton containing the mistakingly stated has raised panel lines as they're so finely
two aircraft kits, a display stand and ten colours of acrylic paint recessed!) and both will cause constant debate over the internet
and a couple of brushes (the set marketed towards a gift-set type forums no doubt as to which is best. A very well printed decal
of purchase) The Skyhawk is of most interest being a new release sheet is unique to this set offering one option each for specific
and looks to offer a good standard of detail for a simple build. Falklands War aircraft 1 ZA177, 809 Naval Air Squadron, HMS
Surface detail is much finer than the Harrier (the Harrier's panel Hermes and Skyhawk C-228 Gruppo 5 de Casa, Fuerza Aerea
gaps are more like troughs!) and the design of the kit looks very Argentina. Encouraging signs from the Skyhawk for future Airfix 53
promising and is crisply moulded. Following the usual format, the releases and certainly great value.
starting point is the cockpit which is good incorporating the nose
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 54

new releases
32066

24003 72045

72046 48177 48178

48179 48180 48181

48182 48183

Scale Aircraft Conversions

SAC's expanding catalogue of replacement white metal landing ROKAF T-50B, Hasegawa’s P-39 / P-400 is catered for with 48181,
gear continues in all scales starting with 1:72 72045 is designed to 48182 is for the Fw 190 from DML and finally 48183 is designed
fit the Hobby Boss F-4 Tomcat and 72046 for the Airfix F.4 / F-86 for the Czech Master UC-78 / T50. In 1:32 32066 beefs up the
Sabre (including 5 gram nose ballast). 1:48 is well catered for Revell / Monogram F3F-3 Gulfhawk and in the huge 1:24 a set to
starting with 48177 for Hasegawa’s P-51, 48178 is for all support Trumpeter's Spitfire Mk.I/V/VI with set 24003. Full details of
manufacturers versions of the Ta 154 Moskito, 48179 for the the range can be found at www.scaleaircraftconversions.com
Trumperter F9F Panther, 48180 will upgrade your Academy
54
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:51 Page 55

Revell 1:32 He162A-2 'Salamander'

Revell have done the decent thing and re-released their excellent detailed engine has the option of displaying the clam cowling
'Volksjager', the '162. with new box-art and decals, this is thankfully open,the cockpit and wheel wells also offer a good contrast of
the only difference I can recall looking over the pale grey sprues. intricate detail against the simple airframe. If you can't help but
This kit really has so much to offer, in big 1:32 there's great detail tinker with your builds check out the wealth of aftermarket parts
on show but with it's stubby wings the finished piece won't take for this machine, mostly the stunning Aires resin plug-ins. Two
over the display case, it's also terrific value for money and with marking options appear on the quality decal sheet, 'white 5' and
under one hundred parts offers a swift build. Moulding is still 'white 1' both of 1/JG1 at Leck. Revell quality and value at it's very
sharp with a tiny amount of flash here and there, the metal parts best, what's not to like?! Keep an eye on. Revell model kits are
of the airframe exhibit fine panel gaps and fixings and the wing available from all good toy and model retailers. For further
tips and control surfaces are good and thin at their edges. A well information visit www.revell.eu or email [email protected]

Italeri 1:72 Spitfire F Mk.VII

More to excite the small scale Spit' fan, this time it's the high- could prove fiddly to get sitting at the correct angle. As with any
altitude Mk.VII with it's characteristic pointed wing and tail tips. mention of 'Spitfire' in the modelling community, a great deal of
First impressions are good of the two sprues, detail being debate ensues regarding shapes and sizes which we'll leave to
impressive as with the Airfix Mk.22 kit and a comparable number the experts, based on production quality this looks a very decent
of parts promising a simple build with some very nice, fine detail. kit from the box with the usual upgrades to apply should you wish.
The lower wings are as the Airfix kit, a single part providing a A very sharply printed (albeit very glossy) Cartograf decal sheet
stable base for the fuselage and upper wing surfaces. The engine provides generic stencils etc and two options of No. 616
cowls and wing tips will need some careful alignment being Squadron 1944 and a grey / blue scheme of No. 602 based in
supplied as separate parts as are the four prop blades which Orkney 1944. 55
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 56

new releases

Afterburner Decals
A couple of releases of markings from the Guys at Afterburner, the first (48 081) colours and specific aircraft. The decals themselves are by Cartograf so we can
being for the F-15 C/D Eagle '65th Aggressor Squadron' for the Hasegawa kits be assured of the best print quality available. Excellent presentation and top
in 1:48 (also would fit the Academy kits) with a bonus of 1:32 markings for the quality, highly recommended.
mighty Tamiya kit. This is a bumper set with twenty two different sets of Set 48 082 upgrades your 1:48 Hasegawa Super Hornet markings including
markings in total over two large sheets and one small section with the metallic instrument display panels, ejector seats and seat belts, gear doors and legs,
'57th Wing' badge. Very comprehensive instructions are supplied across six wing pylons and even exhaust internals, again, superb print quality from
double sided colour sheets detailing the Blue Flanker, Desert Flanker and Digital Cartagraf and detailed illustrated guides supplied.
Splinter schemes along with generic stencilling and excellent detail notes on www.afterburnerdecals.com has more details and the available range.

Mitsubishi A6M 'Zero' fighter Part 1 Published by Model Art, Japan

Model Art Profile 12 www.modelart-shop.jp
Softback portrait format, 156 pages
Our friends in the far east, Model Art, have sent us a copy of their airframe, landing gear, canopy and internal components which are
latest 'Profile' volume on the Zero. Being Japan's most famous presented alongside close-up period black and white photos and
native fighter of WWII this is a hugely popular modelling subject general overall views of the Zeros in action. Around twenty pages
with this first volume focusing on the M2, M2b,M2-N and M2-K. are devoted to colours and marking profiles of different versions
Only some of the headings have English text and a translated although there isn't a huge variation of colour schemes. A look at
section on colours and markings, so we can only comment on the modelling three kits is quite brief, Tamiya's 1:32 A6M2b and
visual reference which is plenty and varied. Something Model Art Hasegawa's A6M2b in both 1:48 and 1:72 are covered, the 1:48
do very well are their stylised colour illustrations of components version having the most useful visual detail of improvements. Well
and details which are sometimes hard to distinguish if looking at worth a look if you have an interest in Japanese fighters, an
56 black and white photographs, very easily accessed modelling attractive book despite the obvious drawback of the language
reference. Detailed technical illustrations cover in-depth the barrier.
AIR 43 June -July 2012_AFV/26 Jan/Feb 06 13/07/2012 12:52 Page 57

Italeri 1:48 Ju 87 D-5

Italeri build on the good reputation of their Ju-87 B-2 with this new allowing combinations of open canopy to show off that interior.
release of the D-5. As expected, many parts are shared with the New, very stylish, wheel spats and weighted tyres can sit
previous release with excellent detail and quality of moulding alongside a good option of bomb loads. A nice inclusion are the
throughout the re-vamped sprues to produce this D-5 version. purposeful looking flame damping exhaust tubes which are
Stuka kits are numerous, this one stands out for it's finely suggested for one of the four marking options; 1/NSG9 in Italy
rendered surface detail, full Jumo engine (consisting of around 1944. Other options on the impressive decal sheet are Stab 3/SG2
twenty parts) with removable canopies and a very welcome little in Russia, Stab 3/SG3 in Finland and a nice option of a Hungarian
etched fret containing cockpit details (instrument panels, seatbelts aircraft. This is certainly one of Italeri's better kits, a superb out-of-
etc) and walk-way panels. Top-notch clear parts are present again the-box project which represents very good value.

Finescale Model World materials

A company probably familiar to railway modellers under the AA batteries are housed in the handle which has a crocodile clip
banner of FMR (Finescale Model Railways) have sent us some wired to it, insert a tack or nail into your chosen base for the clip
product samples which cross-over into our territory, the most to bite to, depress a button on the handle as you sprinkle your
interesting is their static grass system. So what's the relevance to chosen flock and hey-presto! Your grass stands to attention as
aircraft modelling? Well, we've seen many a superb aircraft build you can see from our test. Full details can be found at
marred by a poorly finished base that just doesn't do the model www.finescalemodelworld.co.uk along with how to order. While
justice, a popular (but not particularly convincing in appearance) is you're on the web site there's some other products to check out.
the old railway grass-mat. The method of applying the grass 'flock' Two solvent adhesives are available in an economical 100mm tin
as individual strands /blades of grass gives a more realistic finish Plastic Bond-It and the more industrial Plastic Weld-It used for
to your make-shift runway allowing a more natural non-uniform various plastics including acrylic. Fast-Grab Glue is ideal for the
look, especially if applied over an earth colour. FMR can supply static grass being a pva type glue (drying clear and being non-
various colours and lengths of grass to suit different scales with solvent perfect for canopies). Three pre-paint cleaners are also
sizes from 3mm up to 6.5mm and seasonal colours, but now for available to remove any oils or grease prior to your first coat of
the clever part. Commonly referred to as 'static' grass, the strands paint, in particular 'Silicon-Buster' to remove mould release agents 57
will stand up realistically if a gentle static charge is applied which sometimes found with resin parts in particular.
is exactly what their applicator has been designed to do. A pair of
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 1

CHARLES WHALL’S
MEDITERRANEAN
MENACE
EDUARD 1|48TH BF11OE
Representing W.Nr.3866 Hans
Joachim-Jabs, Staffelkapitan 6./ZG76,
based at Argos in 1941, this was the first
type of Bf110E that saw service in the
Mediterranean theatre. Hans
Joachim-Jabs succeeded in shooting
down 22 aircraft by day and a further 28
following his attachment to IV./NJG 1
(Night-fighters) in November 1942.

58
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 2

Eduard have served the modeller

very well by offering many variants
of the Bf110 and the Royal Class
set allows a lot freedom when
deciding on which variants to build.

I chose to build the ‘E’ variant as it has a The kit also offers alternative options for a
number of interesting features that range of add-ons so I chose to make good
distinguish it from its predecessors (there is use of the additional wing-mounted
also an option to build the ‘Tropical’ ‘E’ auxiliary long range fuel tanks fuel and also
variant with the addition of resin cast added a 75 Litre auxiliary oil tank that can
tropical air filters (and alternative engine sometimes be seen beneath the fuselage
nacelles). One of the main external (first introduced on the ‘D’ type). The overall
differences is the extended rear fuselage effect makes the aircraft look very ‘busy’. A
first introduced to the ‘D’ variant and often nice addition to the box is the etched
referred to as the ‘boat-tail’. The extended workshop/maintenance ladder set which
tail cone houses a dinghy which can be came in very useful in adding another
released by the rear gunner via a cable that dimension to the complete diorama.
runs along the top half of the fuselage.
Another identifiable feature of the ‘E’ was Eduard provide a comprehensive range of
the introduction of a rectangular outlet on canopy options too. All parts are suitably
the machine gun cowling placed between thin and very clear and alternative options
the two central MG 17 machine guns. The are available for the front and rear canopies
outlet allowed air to circulate around the to be displayed open or closed. Thankfully,
port engine and fed it back to the cockpit to canopy masks have been included to use
provide heating. The rear cockpit was on the ‘greenhouse’ canopy and complex
heated by an additional intake on the port framing! Twelve different and varied
fuselage under the point where the aerial marking options are offered over 2 large
wire enters the fuselage. decal sheets which are beautifully printed.
If that wasn’t enough, Eduard also had the
Overall, the kit parts are of a high standard, great idea of including a ¼ scale replica of
moulded well with fine panel lines, subtle the Bf110 instrument panel AND a replica
rivet and detail and a stack of photo-etch Knights Cross which could be used to
detail sets, the cockpit details, instrument create a display to complement your 110!
panels and radio sets being in full colour.
But…the kit is by no means perfect and
there are a surprising number of fit issues
that I encountered which I will elaborate on. 59
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 3

Construction
All parts were given a thorough clean using washing-up Wing tanks with
liquid to remove any mould residue and dried. I
decided to begin construction by working on the
additional PE details
auxiliary fuel and oil tanks and creating the location
points in the wings for the mounts as I knew I would
forget to do this at a later stage and waste a lot of time
holding the wings up to a lamp trying to find the
locating holes! The mounts for the tanks are incredibly
fragile and I managed to snap two of them attempting
to file off the moulding from the sprue mounts-luckily
the kit sprues provide enough spares and I imagine I
will not make another 110 with wing tanks after this
one! In addition to the photo-etched straps and filler
caps, I added lead wire to represent fuel/oil lines
leading into the wing and belly. All tanks were given a
coat of RLM 76 and shaded using a small amount of
Rear gunner
white added to the base colour. Tamiya pigments and
position with
oils were used for staining and general dirt. detail of ring
sight
So onto the cockpit which is well catered for,
combining photo-etched parts and a wealth of
delicately moulded plastic parts. The side walls were
attached to the fuselage side and along with the
cockpit tub were given a coat of RLM 66 as my
references showed for late mark 110’s. Highlights were
added using various shades of grey Model Air acrylics.
I then used Abteilung dark brown oils to wash the area
to provide additional depth and subtle shadows. Colour
for levers and knobs was added using Vallejo acrylics
as I find these are more suitable for small detail due to
the thickness of the paint. After a very thin final wash of
Abteilung Black/Brown oils, the whole lot was given a
coat of Model Air flat and satin varnish before closing
up. The rear gunner/radio compartment area is very
well detailed from the box, but I added some additional
wiring using PlusModel lead wire in various sizes 0.2 –
0.6mm. The interior construction is quite
time-consuming given the large number of parts but all
components went together effortlessly and with the
etched detail included there is more than enough detail
straight from the box. The fuselage halves went
together with no problems and no filler was needed for
a change! Test fitting the canopies at this point was
necessary to ensure that problems were not
encountered after painting. Some prefer to attach clear
parts and mask early in the build, but personally I find it
60 easier to leave vulnerable parts until later on and
attach after painting the main fuselage.
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 4

Exterior construction & details I decided to drop the elevators so set about The next assembly job was the wings and
I wanted to show one of the engines cutting them from the main fin and filed out while the join at the upper wing root was
exposed for maintenance and as Eduard the actuator/hinge points. After adding new near perfect, there were some surprising
do not offer this as an option, I used the styrene hinges, they were fixed back in alignment issues where the underside of
excellent Daimler Benz 601 N power-plant place. The kit also allows the ailerons to be the wings joined the fuselage. This area
from Quickboost. The engine required positioned so I moved them slightly off required some considerable sanding to
some extra plumbing using lead wire of centre as seen in some images. eradicate the step that had appeared at
various sizes and the challenge was to now the join. Much test-fitting later, I finally
shoe-horn it into the cavity where the One of the major complaints about this kit managed to produce a result I was
engine cowling should be. I blocked up the is the fit of the upper engine cowlings so I satisfied with.
rear of the cowling with a scratch-built was glad I only had to work with the port
firewall and inserted a mount on which to cowling in this case! There seems to be a Onto the undercarriage and the kit supplies
secure the engine from beneath. The air rather big step between where the top of a nicely detailed set here. The three-piece
intake would hide any construction here. the cowling meets the wing moulded part tail wheel is very nice and looks much
After spraying the engine with Tamiya flat so I applied pressure on that area while the better than the usual solid moulding. I
black I highlighted lighter shades using glue set in order that the parts were flush, added some hydraulic lines to the main
Tamiya weathering pigments and added this in turn caused fit issues in the curved undercarriage and again there are some
the additional plumbing. The engine areas just behind the leading edge above very delicate parts to contend with, but
bearers were then attached and the whole the exhausts. Careful manipulation, filler builds into a very sturdy structure. The
section fitted very snugly into the cowling and praying solved the problem eventually! undercarriage doors were weathered using
cavity. The flaps above the exhausts were An oversight on Eduard’s part maybe but it a thin mix of Tamiya flat black/brown and
made using styrene and I had the inner one seems odd that modern kit could be dirtied up a bit with oil staining etc. Only the
folded out to expose more of the engine. released with such obvious alignment late type wheels were included in the kit
The overall effect was very satisfying! problems…and there were more to come. I (fine in my case) but an aftermarket set will
Quickboost also supply the additional found the nose cone quite troublesome need to be added if an earlier variant is to
cowling parts which make a nice addition where it joined the fuselage it created quite be built.
to the base. a deep panel line join which was remedied
with a small amount of filler.

RIGHT Detail of
the Quickboost
DB601 N with
added lead wire.
Note the filler
around those
tricky cowlings!

61
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 5

Airfield equipment after a coat of

Mr Surfacer 1000

Eduard seemed to have overlooked the Prior to fixing the canopies in place I
Detail of wheel addition of a retractable access ladder so I added a sighting ring (no mean feat) and
wells, built one from styrene rod, which was an aluminium cocking mechanism to the
undercarriage much less hassle than I had anticipated. rear gunner’s MG17 and created a
with additional The air intake detail on the starboard moveable swivel-mount so the gun could

wiring fuselage under the fixing point for the be posed in a more ‘relaxed’ position. The
aerial was not included on the kit part so I landing light was tinted using Tamiya clear
opened up the area and added the intake yellow and worked very well!
using brass shim. The canopy and screen
were dipped in Johnsons Klear (but didn’t I tried two different paint schemes on the
really need it) and I added the photo centre rack ordnance and finally went with
etched armoured windscreen brass grab the black-green scheme according to
handles once dry, then masked and references.
painted.

62
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 6

Painting and markings Additional filtering using lighter shades of After a light dusting of Tamiya and MiG
Everything was given a coat of Mr Surfacer the base colours was applied to the splinter pigments for general dirt, minor scuffing
1000 primer and rubbed down with fine scheme and the final finish was lightly was added using a Prismacolour silver
Micro-Mesh prior to painting. Pre-shading post-shaded with the same highly thinned pencil and the weathering is complete! Hair
was carried out using a dark grey rather Tamiya black-brown. After the usual panel was used for the antennae cable with
than black due to the lightness of the main washes, general weathering to the wings styrene ‘cones’ for the insulators. The
camo colour which is a standard Luftwaffe and walkway areas was done with Burnt styrene sheet was heated and I pushed a
splinter scheme of Gunze RLM 70/71/65 Sienna and Lamp Black Abteilung oils cocktail stick into the surface to create the
with tail fins and cowling in RLM04. The thinned with odourless turpentine, gradually cone and carefully cut with a scalpel. The
nose cone is RLM 21. building up the effects of oil/exhaust cable was then attached using a tiny drop
Following a coat of Johnsons Klear as a staining over the wings around the engines of Cyano glue. A final coat of Vallejo Matt
base for the decals, they went on perfectly and surrounding areas. This is quite time varnish mixed with a little satin sealed
apart from the shark mouth (Haifisch) consuming but the oils are very easy to everything in and all done!
markings which did not conform too well to control and results are well worth it. To
the curves in the nose and following many create a metallic sheen to the engine and
delicate applications of Micro-Sol, I had to MG 17, I lightly dusted graphite powder
hand-paint the tiny gaps that were created using a cotton bud-I find this is great for 63
between the join once the solvent was dry. creating a realistic metal effect.
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 7

Verlinden starter
cart aided with a
few additional
details

Making the base

The base is made from Jelutong with a
simple decorative moulding. Cork matting
was covered with a layer of PVA and
sprinkled with sand and small stones
(collected from Taquali airfield in Malta!). I
then highlighted with various shades of
sand colours.

The airfield equipment was added to the

base as the 110 looked rather lost on its
own. The Verlinden starter cart is a superb
little kit and a great addition to any
diorama. I added a starter line and sprayed
it Tamiya Desert with the usual weathering
treatment. I chose to add the old-style
wheels to the cart.

The maintenance ladders were incredibly

fiddly to construct but add to the overall
effect and I added a Verlinden bucket to
the platform by the engine. Final additions
were wood planks and oil drums to add
some balance to the busy front area as a
finishing touch.

64
BF110E Charles Whall ALt:Layout 1 13/07/2012 13:34 Page 8

Final verdict…
This kit is certainly not without its problems
but I guess these challenges are what help
us develop new skills and techniques and
the final results far outweigh the kits
disadvantages. Overall, the Royal Class set
provides a fantastic range of possibilities
regarding C, D and E variants to build, from
European and Mediterranean theatres, day
and night schemes. I would highly
recommend it for beginners who are
looking for a straight from the box
challenge or the more experienced among
you who like to go to town and super-detail
everything!

References
Bf110 in Colour Profile 1939-45 John Vasco
and Fernando Estanislau.
Messerschmitt Bf110 C, D & E - An
Illustrated Study by John Vasco and
Fernando Estanislau.

65
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