New Tool Win: Defender

NEW TOOL

ACADEMY’S ALL-NEW 1/144 B-1B LANCER

WIN

SPEARHEAD BOOK & SIGNED BOOKPLATE

Closes: 29/5/20

April 2020 Issue 113

BRITAIN’S

R E D N E F DE Airfix’s We detail 1/48 re-issued Britain Battle of k.Ia Spitfire M

/ 9 TER E.28 3 1/ 72 GLOS TH TING DEP N A E R C : S H VA TOP TIP GON TYPE PORT R U O F N Ë 1/24 CITRO BERG TOY FAIR RE SHOWS D NUREM EVIEWS AN R , S W E N T LATES

GENTLE GIANT

1/35 M26 Pershing from Tamiya

IRON ANNIE

Revell’s 1/48 Junkers Ju 52/3M

£4.99

AMMO_Mig_FP.indd 1

13/02/2020 11:57:25

EDITOR'S DESK WELCOME

Visit us www.airfixmodelworld.com Like us facebook.com/airfixmodelworld Follow us twitter.com/airfixworldmag

WELCOME TO ISSUE 113

A

t times, our enthusiasm for the hobby is almost taken for granted, although recently I’ve experienced a lack of ‘mojo’ that extended back to the end

EDITORIAL TEAM Editor: Stu Fone Assistant Editor: John Fuller Contributors: Mike Grant, Richard Spreckley, Dave Oliver, Chris Clay, Massimo Santarossa Production Editor: Sue Blunt Associate Production Editor: David Taylor Sub-editors: Sally Hooton, Sue Rylance Designer: Tom Bagley EDITORIAL CONTACT Airfix Model World, Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincs, PE9 1XQ, UK. Tel: 01780 755131. BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT Head of Production: Janet Watkins Head of Design: Steve Donovan Head of Advertising Sales: Brodie Baxter Head of E-Commerce: Martin Steele Head of Circulation: Ann Saundry Head of Content Management: Finbarr O’Reilly Chief Digital Officer: Vicky Macey Chief Customer Officer: Gaynor Hemingway-Gibbs Chief Content & Commercial Officer: Mark Elliott Group CEO: Adrian Cox

of 2017. Thankfully, talking with other modellers, plus researching material for our Back to Basics series has rejuvenated my love of modelmaking. We all come into the hobby for different reasons, so it’s understandable for our enthusiasm to wax and wane. So, if you know of anyone who’s going through a similar period of doldrums, then why not have a chat with them? You could provide the just spark for them to get back into building. I’m honoured to announce sales of Airfix Model World have increased for the sixth straight year. According to the independent Audit Bureau of Circulation,

the magazine averaged 13,917 sales per issue in 2019, an increase of approximately 400 on 2018, so I’d like to thank you for your continued support. We’re as busy as ever with Airfix’s new toolings and will be expanding the Back to Basics articles following several readers’ suggestions. The month’s cover build features Airfix’s re-released Spitfire Mk.I, which gets an aftermarket treatment. We also have an in-depth review of this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair, featuring lots of upcoming treats. There’s a section devoted to the US Army’s Pershing tank to coincide with the paperback release of Spearhead by Adam Makos, which chronicles the true story of a Pershing crew. We’re

grateful for the permission from the publishers to include photos of those events, plus the artwork released in association with the book, which graces the centre spread – and there’s a competition to win a copy of the book itself. Last but not least, we look at Ukrainian manufacturer Clear Prop Models’ 1/72 Gloster E28/39, along with Heller’s Citroën Fourgon and Academy’s sublime newly tooled 1/144 B-1B bomber. I hope you enjoy the issue. Happy modelling!

ADVERTISING TEAM Advertising Sales Executive: Alison Chater Advertising Sales Executive: Ashley Smalley Advertising Production Manager: Debi McGowan Advertising Production/Design Production/Design: Clare Thornthwaite

Airfix Model World, ISSN 2045-1202 (USPS 4440), is published monthly by Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK.

We are unable to guarantee the bona fides of any of our advertisers. Readers are strongly recommended to take their own precautions before parting with any information or item of value, including, but not limited to, money, manuscripts, photographs or personal information in response to any advertisements within this publication. The entire contents of Airfix Model World is © Copyright 2020. No part of it can be reproduced in any form or stored on any form of retrieval system without the prior permission of the publisher. Publisher: Mark Elliott.

SUBMISSIONS We will gladly accept and review for publication any, products, articles, letters, photographs or other contributions. We cannot guarantee publication nor, regrettably, return items sent to us or be responsible for their loss. We will try and reply where possible. Any letters are assumed suitable for publication unless we are otherwise notified. All items submitted for publication are subject to our terms and conditions. These are regularly updated without prior notice and are freely available from Key Publishing Ltd or downloadable from www.keypublishing.com.

The US annual subscription price is $72.99. Airfreight and mailing in the USA by agent named WN Shipping USA, 156-15, 146th Avenue, 2nd Floor, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA. Periodicals postage paid at Jamaica NY 11431. US Postmaster: Send address changes to Airfix Model World, WN Shipping USA, 156-15, 146th Avenue, 2nd Floor, Jamaica, NY 11434, USA

Distributed by: Seymour Distribution Ltd, 2 Poultry Avenue, London, EC1A 9PP Tel: 020 7429 4000.

“AIRFIX’’ is a registered trade mark of Hornby Hobbies Limited and is used under licence.

Subscription records are maintained at Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 300, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1NA, UK. Air Business Ltd is acting as our mailing agent.

Printed by: Acorn Web Offset Ltd, Normanton, UK.

Stu Fone, Editor [email protected]

Readers in the USA can place subscriptions by visiting www.imsnews.com or calling toll-free 757-428-8180. Alternatively, you can subscribe in writing to: Airfix Model World, International Media Service, PO BOX 866, Virginia Beach 23451, USA.

To find a stockist near you, visit airfixmodelworld.com

The average sale for the period Jan – Dec 2019 was 13,917 print and digital copies monthly.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 3

CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

REGULARS 06 News The latest happenings in the world of plastic modelling, including new products from the Nuremberg Toy Fair, plus offerings from Bullseye Decals, Copper State Models and Wingsy Kits.

12 Subscribe and Save Save up to £30 on shop prices when you take out an Airfix Model World subscription.

14 Show Scene

26

Check out our handy at-a-glance model show calendar.

REVIEWS: ON THE SHELF 74 78 80 84 86 88 92

Books Aircraft kits Military kits Auto kits Figures Decal sheets Accessories

40

98 Archive Treasures Continuing our Battle of Britain theme, this month’s photo gem features a group of engineering trainees working on a Supermarine Spitfire Mk.I.

16

60

4

Airfix Model World

CONTENTS WHAT'S INSIDE?

68

FEATURES 16 Intermediate Build – A Whittle Faster Mike Grant finds there’s plenty on offer in his in-depth examination of Clear Prop’s 1/72 Gloster E.28/39 Pioneer.

22 Out and about – Nuremberg News There were announcements galore at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair, as Editor Stu Fone discovered.

26 Basic Build – Iron Annie Revell’s imposing 1/48 Junkers Ju 52/3mg4e receives a Libyan desert courtesy of Richard Spreckley, who adds cargo to an already impressive kit.

36 Back to Basics – Part 4: The illusion of Depth It’s a return to the interior as we examine how to enhance moulded detail in aircraft cockpits, using a mix of highlights and shading.

40 Intermediate Build – America’s Tiger Coinciding with this month’s release of Spearhead in paperback, Dave Oliver builds Tamiya’s 1/35 M26 Pershing as one of the vehicles used during the latter stages of World War Two.

WIN!

52 In Focus – Prowling Pershing We provide modellers with a photo montage of the events depicted in Spearhead, courtesy of Atlantic Books. Spearhead

Adam Makos’ Spearhead book and signed bookplates

54 Advanced Build – Britain’s Defender Airfix’s 1/48 Spitfire Mk.I has been re-released with new markings; we add aftermarket embellishments to ‘spice up’ the basic styrene.

Five lucky readers can each win a paperback copy of the best-selling Spearhead plus a signed bookplate in our free competition, courtesy of Atlantic Books. See page 48.

60 Out and About – After a Winter’s ‘Rest’ Bolton’s annual show is now established as one of the year’s ‘big three’ events – this latest gathering had much to delight modellers of all ages and skill levels.

62

62 Intermediate Build – Toucan Van Chris Clay builds Heller’s 1/24 Citroën Fourgon as a vehicle that’s been parked outside an Irish Bar in the Canary Islands advertising Guinness.

68 Basic Build – Bad to the B-One! Academy’s newly tooled B-1B Lancer impresses Massimo Santarossa, who builds it as a 34th Bomb Squadron ‘Thunderbirds’ machine, Black Widow.

Your favourite magazine anywhere, anytime Find us on your native app store or visit www.pocketmags.com/airfix-model-world-magazine

www.airfixmodelworld.com 5

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

AK

IN G NE

BR

KIN G NE

WS

EA

E

WS

!

!

BR

TEENS AND A TOUCH OF HISTORY AIRFIX’S LATEST releases mark the return of several old favourites in starter/gift format, which are bound to be popular with beginners to the hobby.

Four Large Starter Sets dominate the scene for April, and these include repackaged offerings of the firm’s US Air Force ‘Teenseries’ jets, namely the F-15A Eagle (A55311), F-16A/B Fighting Falcon (A55212) and F-18A Hornet (A55313), plus the RAF’s Tornado F.3 (A55301). Each kit includes a single marking scheme, up to six small pots of Humbrol acrylic paint, two brushes and a small tube of Humbrol Poly Cement, making them a great introduction to modelling. This year is also the 250th anniversary of Captain James

Cook’s voyage on HMS Endeavour, when he became the first European to reach eastern Australia and to circumnavigate New Zealand. Airfix is celebrating this by re-releasing its 1/120 HM Bark Endeavour as a gift set, complete with eight paints, two brushes and a tube of Poly Cement. This offering also has the firm’s ingenious shroud/ ratline jig, lengths of thread and a comprehensive rigging guide, enabling any modeller to recreate an accurate representation of this famous vessel. Further details are at: www.airfix.com

FIRST HORSELESS CARRIAGE ICM SURPRISED many at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair (see p.20-23) byunveiling of a 1/24 Benz Patent-Motorwagen 1886. It’s a small kit (24040), with just three styrene runners and a twopiece jig for the wheel spokes, plus a large photo-etched brass fret for the latter and the vehicle’s chain drives. ICM has taken a leaf from the original patent (a copy of which is supplied in the box) by building the vehicle around its U-shaped tubular framework, and it can be assembled in two forms – either with the kit’s styrene transmission belt or with a scratch-built replacement. All

6

Airfix Model World

items of the original design have been captured faithfully, from the horizontal-to-vertical gearing to the large flywheel, but it’s the tricycle wheels that are the standout element, with paired sets of bowed spokes (all shaped and assembled in an ingenious jig) attaching to the rims. With its simple construction, this is a great introduction to automobile history, and future releases are planned with various passengers, including Karl Benz’s wife Bertha, who was the vehicle’s sponsor and first driver. See: www.icm. com.ua or www.hannants.co.uk for more information.

EASY AIRBRUSHING

IWATA’S SUPERB HP-CH airbrush has been re-packaged as a ‘Total Control’ product, in keeping with the firm’s recently introduced five-category purchasing guide. This double-action, gravity-fed airbrush is fitted with a 0.3mm needle and comes with a ¼oz (7ml) paint cup. It also features a preset handle (to limit how far the trigger can be pulled back) and micro-air control valve (for fine-tuning the pressure settings), which allows for much

greater control when spraying. As part of the Hi-Line series, it’s firmly in the mid-price range at £264, and can produce pencilthin paint lines if desired, making this great for fine detail and area coverage. The balance is excellent, while the large aperture at the base of the paint cup should aid cleaning considerably.

Iwata’s airbrush guide comprises the following categories (progressing from area to fine detail) with specific brand names included for each: Full Finish (spray guns), Effortless Coverage (NEO and Revolution), All-Star Versatility (Eclipse), Total Control (High Performance Plus and Hi-Line) and Absolute Precision (Custom Micron). Beginners and those on a budget will find the Effortless Coverage airbrushes ideal, while more experienced modellers can choose from the Total Control and Absolute Precision lines. There is more on this and other Iwata products at: www.airbrushes.com

TICKETS PLEASE MODELLERS HAVE waited patiently for MiniArt’s hotly anticipated 1/35 B-Type bus, which has arrived in Military Omnibus guise – a London transport version is to follow. This new-tool kit (39001) and the commercial version (38021) are both a quantum leap over the previous Airfix offering, combining advances in moulding technology on the 16 grey and three clear runners, alongside a small photo-etched brass fret alongside. Styrene components exhibit superb detail, with highlights including the wooden panels for window covers, the excellent interior (with separate controls) and an exquisite engine, which is

a five-stage ‘mini kit’ in its own right. A very welcome inclusion is the option for an open bonnet to display this sub-assembly – a feature all too often missing from vehicle kits – plus there are choices for open window vents depending

on whether the chosen vehicle has transparencies fitted. Decals include markings for five khaki-liveried vehicles used for transport or ambulance duties between 1914-17; visit www.miniartmodels.com for further details.

CLEAR VISION SPECIAL HOBBY has embarked on a new venture with its Special Mask sets, providing an easy solution for modellers owning the firm’s 1/72 Dassault Super Mystère or Saab Viggen kits. Each of the Special Mask products contains a sheet of precut shapes. The Super Mystère set (M72001) includes sections for each of the windscreen’s glazed sections, plus edging

for the main canopy – the instructions suggest using a liquid mask product for the remainder. Coverings are also included for the wheels, plus a small section at the tip of the aircraft’s nose. Similar products are available for single seater (M72002) and dual-position (M72003) iterations of the firm’s Saab Viggen kits. Further details are at: www.specialhobby.eu

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

OVERLORD OBSERVED

BOXSETS FROM both Airfix and Revell have been released to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the D-Day landings in Normandy, France – combining 1/72 kits with vac-form diorama bases to create instant vignettes. Airfix has recreated the multifaceted operation with two packages; one depicting the amphibious element and the other a representation of equipment used for aerial assault. The D-Day Sea Assault set (A50156A) combines two LCVP Higgins boats, US

Infantry figures, a US Army Willys Jeep with trailer and 75mm Pack M1 howitzer with a 13 x 9in (340 x 240mm) base. This last item provides a section of beach and the sea lapping at the shore, with tyre tracks and indentations to position the jeep and boats respectively. Similarly, the base in the D-Day Air Assault package (A50157A) represents a section of temporary airfield surrounded by a raised embankment on three sides and a road segment beyond this. The firm’s recent Hawker Typhoon

FOREIGN FISHBED FLYERS

EDUARD’S SPLENDID 1/72 MiG-21 is now available as the PFM variant, also known by its NATO nickname Fishbed-F. This ProfiPACK edition (70144) features decal options for five such airframes, depicting German, Czechoslovakian, Vietnamese and Egyptian-operated jets, and the five styrene runners are augmented with a small photo-etched (PE) fret plus a set of pre-cut painting masks. As expected from the manufacturer, detail is excellent, with fine engraved panel lines and rivet detail, plus the cockpit is well-

8

Airfix Model World

appointed regardless of whether the PE or styrene components and/ or decals are used. Among the configuration options are open/ closed canopy and ventral airbrake plus external fuel tank or weapons fittings for the fuselage and wing hardpoints. The armament includes RS-2US (AA-1 Alkali) and R-3S (AA-2 Atoll) missiles, S-24 rockets, UB-16 launchers and FAB 250 bombs, although Eduard states modellers should check references for an accurate weapons load. For more information, visit: www.eduard.com

Mk.Ib appears as a 247 Squadron machine, and can be posed alongside a Standard ‘Tilly’ Light Utility vehicle, BSA M20 motorcycle and either a Bedford MWC Water Carrier or MWD Light Truck, plus 37 RAF Personnel figures. Both Airfix packs also provide 12 acrylic paints, a tube of polystyrene cement and two paintbrushes, and are priced at £29.99 each – significantly cheaper than buying the kits individually. For further details, visit: www.airfix.com Revell’s commemorative set (03352) incorporates both

ground-based and aerial combat between Allied and Axis forces – in the form of a Panzer IV and M4 Sherman plus a Messerschmitt Bf 109G-10 and an RAF Mustang Mk.III. The tanks can be positioned on either side of a bridge on the 18 x 13in (460 x 335mm) base, while separate display stands are provided for each aircraft – the instructions demonstrate combining these with the diorama support. The set costs £49.99, and more information is available at: www.revell.de/en

INSIDE-OUT DOUBLE GUNNER

MINIART’S RECENT 1/35 M3 Lee tank returns with a full interior and Australian markings to depict vehicles used for homeland defence and training during World War Two. It’s a comprehensive package (32287) comprising 68 styrene runners (with 26 for the individuallink tracks), decals and a photoetched fret. The wealth of detail ensures it's difficult to single out any one highlight; the interior surfaces offer convincing textured floor sections, wiring and pipework, plus separate fittings include ammunition storage, tools and crew weapons. External fixtures are also superb, with cast surfaces

plus distinctive rivetted lower hull armour – all hatches can be posed open/closed. The tank’s powerplant incorporates a wonderful Wright R-975 engine plus neatly moulded gearbox and driveshaft casing, while both the turret-mounted 37mm gun and 75mm main armament are replicated with full aiming and firing mechanisms. Options for either the short-length M2 barrel with counterweight or the longer M3 version fitted to later tanks are provided to suit whichever of the four markings schemes are chosen. More on this and other MiniArt releases can be found at: www.miniart-models.com

HIGH-SPEED SUPPRESSION WHILE ICM’S fighter and reconnaissance/bomber MiG-25s have delighted modellers, there was a notable gap in the singleseat versions – the BM defence suppression airframe – which has now been addressed. Unsurprisingly, its Foxbat-F shares many runners with previous releases, with new frames for the revised nose, underwing missile pylons and launch rails, plus four Kh-58/AS-11 Kilter anti-radiation missiles. This means there’s a beautifully detailed cockpit and full-length intakes and jet exhausts, while the exterior benefits from fine engraved panel lines. Markings are supplied for three Soviet Air Force airframes (including a test/training aircraft), with

one in a three-tone disruptive camouflage usually seen on East Germany-deployed machines. As a bonus there’s a doublesided printed base on which

to display the finished model, featuring a concrete surface. Visit: www.icm.com.ua or www.hannants.co.uk for more on this and other ICM products.

ITALIAN NIEUPORTS

LATVIAN manufacturer Copper State Models has added another arrow to its modelling quiver with the first in a series of decals for its splendid 1/32 Nieuport XVII. Each of the first two products (D32-001 and D32-002), provides sufficient markings for a single Italian Air Force

airframe. The former supplies generic national roundels and fin flashes, plus numerals for modellers to create almost any Italian Nieuport XVII. It’s also intended to be used in conjunction with the second set to depict the machine flown by ace Count Francesco Baracca (complete with

prancing horse artwork). The decals exhibit perfect register with strong opacity, notably on the white sections. At just €4.24 each, these are great value for money, and will result in an eyecatching model. Further details are available via: www. copperstatemodels.com

REDUCED-SIZE REFERENCES HAYNES’ ICONS series has been expanded with a selection of manuals based on preserved machinery; its latest selection covers the Flying Scotsman, Tiger tank and HMS Victory and is certain to be popular with modellers. Each title is basically a smaller-format version of the full-size publications on the same subject, meaning the history of each vehicle is examined before focus shifts to the machine’s

anatomy – including armaments for the tank and warship books. The well-organised text is accompanied by a mixture of period images, modern fullcolour photos and technical

drawings, plus there are tables and separate panels covering the procedures and intricacies involved with the maintenance and operation of the subject. Compared to Hayne’s Operators’ Manuals, these smaller books provide more of an introduction to the subjects, with a brief bibliography for those wanting to read further. These are priced at £12.99, and are available from www. haynes.com

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

SHAPES, SLICERS AND SMOOTHERS surfaces feel comparable. The firm’s ‘Easycutting’ mats (IT03003V1 Types A-D) are designed for forming any shape from masking tape, with the surface of each acrylic board engraved with straight lines formed into rectangular or triangular arrangements, large arcs or smaller circular shapes. Various sizes shape are supplied on the corresponding

AN IMPRESSIVE range of ingenious sanding implements and engraved cutting mats has arrived from South Korean firm Infini Model. Among the selection are packs containing eight examples of ‘Soft’ abrasive sticks (IPM-0000), which are medium-sized, reasonably stiff boards with slight give on their surfaces – perfect for general work and confined areas. For smoothing curves and similar complex shapes, ‘Softback’ utensils (ISS-0000G) provide sponge-like pads over a rigid centre piece, offering a high degree of flexibility. Last,

product, meaning these are also ideal for scratch-building. Packs of sanding tools start at £3.00 for six implements, while the cutting mats are priced at £13.50 or £14.95 depending on the type – value-for-money bundles of both selections are also available. Further information and prices can be found at www. premiumhobbies.co.uk

‘Sticker Type’ self-adhesive sheets, combined with a selection of photoetched holding tools (PIM-0000S), ensure even the tightest of areas can be worked on, with the added option to produce implements of a custom profile. Each set contains a series of different abrasive grades, although it’s worth noting that these numbers are not uniform across the packages. For example, polishing materials are rated at 7,000-grade in the Soft and self-adhesive products, but 4,000-grade in the flexible selection, although the

ARMY CLOSE-AIR SUPPORT THOROUGHBRED PACKAGES

FANS OF World War Two Japanese aviation are being treated to a batch of releases, such as Wingsy Kits’ delightful 1/48 Ki-51 Sonia attack/reconnaissance aircraft. Currently available in assault (D504) and assault/recon (D5-05) boxings, there are ten common styrene runners, a pre-cut canopy mask set and a single photo-etched (PE) brass fret, while the second release includes an additional frame for photographic equipment and a larger centreline bomb. First impressions are overwhelmingly positive, from the commendably fine engraved panel lines and rivet representation to the intricately

10

Airfix Model World

detailed cockpit, which features separate sidewalls and is then enclosed within the fuselage halves. The engine is equally impressive, with well-defined cylinder cooling fins, pushrods and exhaust ring. Gunsights, bomb fins, seat harnesses and rudder pedal straps are supplied as PE items, offering yet more refinement, while options include different types of bomb load, propeller spinners, and provision for an open/closed canopy. Four schemes are included in each kit, with a mix of single colour and disruptive pattern camouflage. More on this and other releases is at: www.wingsykits.com

BULLSEYE MODEL Aviation has produced a bumper selection of decals for Eduard’s newly tooled 1/48 Mustangs, with four ‘Yoxford Boys’ packs depicting RAF Leighton, Suffolk-based 357th Fighter Group machines. There’s a choice of 33 schemes across the collection (48-009, -010, -011 and -012), although several feature variations/later markings applied to the same airframe. Each beautifully printed assortment includes airframe serials and identification markings, the group’s distinctive red/yellow chequerboard cowl band and aircraft-specific nicknames, air-to-

air victory markings and stencil information. A choice of national insignia with either white or grey backgrounds is also provided. There’s a brief history of each aircraft, alongside camouflage information, plus pilot details and modifications/ embellishments applied to each individual Mustang. Visit: www. spruebrothers. com for more information.

NEWS BULLETIN LATEST UPDATES

NEXT-GEN ACRYLICS AK INTERACTIVE unveiled its latest acrylic products at the Nuremberg Toy Fair, with a whole new range of paints. Described as being ‘third generation’, these water-based colours are manufactured to a different formula than previous offerings from the firm, with the aim to improve compatibility with airbrushing while still offering excellent coverage when applied by brush. There will be 236 shades in total, and the initial samples have proven to be superb. Consistency is on a par with other acrylic manufacturers, but there appears to be a higher pigment content and finer texture, giving the paint an almost ‘silky’ feel and appearance, with no clumps

or grit. The opacity is strong, regardless of whether brushed or sprayed, making this ideal for large or small subjects alike. Each dropper-type bottle holds 17ml, and the cross-shaped cap makes for easy removal. Visit: www.ak-interactive.com for more details.

DOG-TOOTH DELIGHTS

MODELLERS SEEKING greater refinement for Airfix’s recent 1/48 Hawker Hunter F.6 will appreciate these upgrade sets from CMK, which offer comprehensive upgrades for the kit’s undercarriage bays, wheels and cockpit. Resin components are supplied in each of the three packages for this variant, which featured a prominent ‘dog-tooth’ notch in the wing leading edge. The Cockpit set (4387) includes a printed acetate sheet representing dials – this is fitted to a detailed instrument panel – while there are also separate controls and

a superb Martin-Baker Mk.2 ejection seat. These are all added to a onepiece interior ‘tub’, which is finished with the addition of internal side walls. The Undercarriage package (4388) includes three internal panels to form the nosewheel bay, while the exquisite mainwheel apertures feature beautifully cast pipework and structures. This area can be upgraded comprehensively with the wheels (4392), which include convincing tyre tread and impressive depth to the inner and outer wheel hubs. Further information can be found at: www.cmkkits.com

AT THE ARMOURED TIP BEST-SELLING author Adam Makos’s Spearhead, which tells the true story of US Army tank gunner Clarence Smoyer during late World War Two, has just been released in a paperback edition. While some of the events depicted (notably the clash between an American Pershing and a German Panther in Cologne) were immortalised in film by a combat photographer, this book provides invaluable background. Detailed interviews with Clarence and several surviving German and American tank crews have resulted in a no holds barred chronicle, at times visceral and brutal (notably when discussing the consequences of tank versus tank warfare) interspersed with moments of human compassion. While there are many poignant elements, notable when describing the death or injury of fellow tankers, arguably the strongest is a reunion between Clarence and Panzer IV

gunner Gustav Schaefer in 2013. The author has obtained use of archival and personal photos to augment the text, providing further insight into the lives of those fighting in Germany during spring 1945. Further details are available from: www.atlantic-books.co.uk and AMW readers have a chance to win a copy, plus a signed bookplate, on p.48.

MULTI-PURPOSE MOTIFS

A TRIO of waterslide decal packs has arrived from Spanish firm Green Stuff World, containing street art, posters and labelling for a range of applications. Each set has a broad appeal as they aren’t limited to any given scale, while the decals are printed on gloss carrier film. Colour boundaries, register and opacity all appear perfect and although the names are generic, there’s a distinctly sci-fi feel to these twosheet assortments. Its Train and Street Graffiti Silver and Golds (2008) contains large stylised motifs with impressive metallic finishes, plus black or white backgrounds – the text includes various colloquial slang terms and Americanised spellings. Conversely, tones on the Vintage

Posters selection (2010) are muted to simulate age – there are also representations of rust and distress on several items. Among the items are promotions for classic films such as The Invisible Man and King Kong alongside more modern signage for The Avengers, plus wanted posters, gig listings and drinks adverts. Last, the Tactical Numbers pack (2040) supplies various characters and numerals, ‘danger’ signs and designation labelling in either black, white or red on one sheet, plus exaggerated unit emblems, ‘kill’ markings, brightly coloured artwork and nicknames on the second. Each of the collections is just €9.50, and further details are available at: www.greenstuffworld.com

www.airfixmodelworld.com 11

Start your new year with a subscription to

E

diting Airfix Model World is the best hobby-related job going, whether that’s gaining insight into forthcoming releases, the chance to speak with modellers from around the world, or most of all for the privilege of providing readers with the top combination of news, reviews, history articles and build features each month.

SUBSCRIBER BENEFITS: l Great Savings Save £££s compared to buying each issue in shops

l Priority Home Delivery Subscriber copies go first

l Specials Discounts Save money on all of our one-off special magazines

Stu Fone Editor

Join us at

Superb workmanship, superb photography and all well written. Also it’s not just about Airfix models. The openness of the publication is one of the reasons I love each issue.

Digital editions also available Visit

John F, via Facebook.

TWO EASY WAYS TO ORDER

Customer code: AMW020420

ORDER ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com/suboffer * Saving refers to 1 year Direct Debit subscription against newsstand cover price.

105 AMW Subs dps Apr20.indd 10

21/02/2020 11:44

UK SUBSCRIPTION OFFERS

SAVE UP TO 30%* when you subscribe

CHOOSE FROM

1 1 YEAR

Direct Debit plus FREE Scale Modelling Bundle

£39.99

2 2 YEARS

FREE GIFT

YOU SAVE 30%

Credit/Debit Card plus FREE Scale Modelling Bundle

£85.99

FREE GIFT

YOU SAVE 25%

Prefer to spread your payments?

Or pay by card?

3 issues for £5

then quarterly Direct Debit

1 YEAR

£12.25 YOU SAVE 15%

£50.99 YOU SAVE 10%

Credit/Debit Card

Overseas Customer? Visit the website or call for latest subscription offers.

CALL US NOW

UK 01780 480404

Monday to Friday 9.00am until 5.30pm

Standard UK 1-year prices: UK - £50.99, EU - £56.99, USA - £52.99, ROW - £59.99

105 AMW Subs dps Apr20.indd 11

105/20

21/02/2020 11:44

SHOW SCENE DIARY DATES

SHOW SCENE At-a-glance model show calendar

E MODEL DISPLAY

) MODEL COMPETITION J TRADE STANDS

 REFRESHMENTS

AIRCRAFT DISPLAY MILITARY DISPLAY

FREE PARKING

AUTOMOTIVE DISPLAY

MAKE ‘N’ PAINT

Shropshire Model Show Date:

April 5

Hosts:

Shropshire Scale Modellers

Address: RAF Museum Cosford, Shifnal, Shropshire TF11 8UP

April 4

Indoor Aeroboot/Aerojumble and Avionic Sale Hosts: Newark Air Museum Address: Drove Lane, Winthorpe, Newark, Notts NG24 2NY Times: 9am-2pm Prices: Adults £9, over-65s £8, children £4.50, under 5s free Email: [email protected] Web: www.newarkairmuseum.org

4 Welling 2020 Hosts: Welling Model Club Address: Falconwood Community Centre, The Green, Welling, Kent DA1 2PG Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £3, OAPs and children £1 Email: [email protected] Web: N/A

11 IPMS West Suffolk Open Day Hosts: IPMS West Suffolk Address: Odd Fellows Hall, 85 Whiting Street, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP33 1NX Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Free Email: [email protected] Web: IPMS West Suffolk (Facebook)

18 Hosts:

Scale Model Exhibition IPMS Dorset and Poole Vikings Model Club Address: Parkstone Grammar School, Sopers Lane, Poole, Dorset BH17 7EP Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £3.50, children £1 Email: [email protected] Web: www.poolevikingsblog. wordpress.com

18 Model Classic 2020 Hosts: IPMS North Virginia Modellers Address: Fairfax High School, 3501 Rebel Run, Fairfax, VA 22030, USA Times: 9am-4pm Prices: Adults US$8, under 17s free Email: [email protected] Web: www.novaipms.org

19 LGW2020 Hosts: Gatwick Aviation Society Address: K2 Crawley, Pease Pottage Hill, Crawley, West Sussex RH11 9BQ Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £5, OAPs £4, accompanied children free Email: lgw2018@gatwickaviationsociety. org.uk Web: www.gatwickaviationsociety. org.uk

19 Media Modelling 2020 Hosts: HaMex Address: Hanslope Village Hall, Newport Rd, Hanslope, Bucks MK19 7NZ Times: 10am-4pm Prices: Adults £2, accompanied under 16s free Email: [email protected] Web: www.hamex.co.uk

19 Spring Model Day Hosts: Barry War Museum Address: Barry Island Railway, Station Approach, Barry, Vale of Glamorgan CF62 5TH Times: 10am-4.30pm Prices: Free Email: [email protected] Website: www.barrywarmuseum.org.uk

25 BMSS Annual Show 2020 Hosts: British Model Soldier Society Address: Church Hall, St Saviours’, St George’s Square, Lupus Street, Pimlico, London SW1V 3QW Times: 10:30am-4pm Prices: General £3 members £2 Email: N/A Web: www.bmssonline.com

Times:

10am-4pm

Prices:

Free

Email:

[email protected]

Web:

http://shropmodels.org.uk/ index.htm

25-26 Modellexpo 08 – Open 2020 Hosts: IPMS Stockholm Address: Skytteholmsskolan, Ankdammsgaten 14-16, Solna, Sweden Times: Sat 12-4pm Sun 10am-3pm Prices: Adults SEK 80, IPMS members and under 15s free Email: [email protected] Web: www.ipmsstockholm.se

25-26

Scottish National Scale Model Show 2020 Hosts: Scottish National Scale Model Show Team Address: The Dewars Centre, Glover Street, Perth PH2 OTH Times: Sat 10am-5pm Sun 10am-4pm Prices: TBC Email: [email protected] Web: www.scotnats.org

25-26 XXIV Mosonshow Hosts: Mosonmagyaróvár Modelling Club Address: UFM Aréna, Városi Sportcsarnok, Mosonmagyaróvár, Gorkij út 1, Hungary Times: Sat 8am-7pm Sun 7am-5pm Prices: Free Email: [email protected] Web: www.mosonshow.hu

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]

14

Airfix Model World

Bachmann_FP.indd 1

12/02/2020 17:29:05

INTERMEDIATE BUILD GLOSTER E.28/39

U

A WHITTLE FASTER

Mike Grant ‘whittles’ styrene as he builds Clear Prop’s 1/72 Gloster Pioneer – the first British jet aircraft

 Clear Prop incorporated a high level of detail into the styrene parts, such as the cockpit floor and bulkheads.

krainian kit manufacturer Clear Prop Models has burst on to the modelling scene with an ambitious schedule of 1/72 scale releases. The company may be new, but it clearly understands the importance of marketing, with dynamic box art, a slick website and superbly presented products. For its Gloster E.28/39 Pioneer kit, it went one step further with a clever computer-animated video showing the kit being assembled. Parts slid seamlessly into position, gleaming photo-etched (PE) metal items slotted into place, and within minutes a perfectly formed complete Whittle jet ‘sat’ on a virtual cutting mat. It was a great piece of persuasive marketing, presumably rendered from the same 3D digital files used to master the plastic components. If it went together that easily in the video, surely the kit would do the same…

Decisions, decisions The kit certainly looked impressive in the box. There were four runners containing sharply moulded grey styrene parts, a clear frame, three

 Three metal strips representing intake vanes were intended to fit into the slots on the fuselage halves, but it was found they needed trimming for this to happen. Cockpit detail out of the box was impressive, although PE seat harnesses were replaced with strips of painted Parafilm on this project.

 Runner attachment points were often located on gluing surfaces, requiring careful removal. Note the internal moulded detail, visible if the model was displayed with the engine cowl omitted.

16

Airfix Model World

INTERMEDIATE BUILD GLOSTER E.28/39

A significant amount of remedial work was required for the wing to fit the fuselage adequately. As well as the work shown here, part of the cockpit bulkhead also had to be sanded.

 Wing upper and lower sections were combined easily – toothless copper crocodile clips held the parts in place while the liquid glue cured.  Conversely, restoring straight lines was a much easier task – Dymo tape (www.dymo.com) provided rigid and solid guidance for this work.

Strips of 3M flexible tape (www.3m. co.uk) were used as a guide for reinstating the circumferential panel lines – a needle in a pin-vice served as the scribing tool.

MODEL SPEC

photo-etched metal frets, a set of vinyl masks for the canopy and wheels, a bag holding resin components for the engine, a printed film for the instrument panel gauges and a decal sheet. The full-colour instructions included Humbrol paint references, but also listed a brass pitot tube, although this was missing from the review kit. In all, a total of 186 items were provided for a model just over 4in (10cm) long! For any modeller with the benefit of a few kits under their belt, most 1/72 single-engined aircraft models can probably be assembled with just a cursory

glance at the instructions, but the complexity of this kit demanded a more concentrated study of the assembly sequence. The four decal choices corresponded with tailplane and canopy part options, but perhaps the biggest decision was how to display the Power Jets W.1 engine. A choice had to be made whether to build the resin

powerplant installed in the aircraft with the rear fuselage removed, or on the separate maintenance stand, with the airframe closed.

Internal stresses The first inkling this build wouldn’t be quite as

smooth as the promotional video had suggested came in the first five stages, which covered cockpit assembly. The first dealt with the instrument panel: a sheet of acetate with the gauges printed in black, backed with a coat of white paint, and sandwiched between the styrene panel and the beautifully etched brass front.

Gloster E.28/39 Pioneer By:

Clear Prop Models

Stock Code:

72001

Scale:

1/72

Price:

€25

Available from: www.clearpropmodels.com

www.airfixmodelworld.com 17

INTERMEDIATE BUILD GLOSTER E.28/39

Vinyl canopy masks were provided with the kit, but these appeared marginally too small. Sections of Parafilm were therefore used instead.

 Mission Models’ MMP-079 RAF Interior Green (www.missionmodelsus.com) represented the internal canopy colour - the paint’s tone was noticeably brighter and yellower than its Xtracrylix equivalent.

The inclusion of separate ailerons was a neat feature, and these were consequently posed offset for added visual interest.

This received a dark grey tone to provide a slight contrast with the gauges, then several tiny PE switches were attached. Next, the seat was painted and the harness added, although in this case the PE

18

Airfix Model World

 After struggling with tiny PE strips supplied for the undercarriage, EZ Line was used instead – this was much easier and the appearance was acceptable once painted.

parts were replaced by thin strips of painted Parafilm. The cockpit floor and rear bulkheads featured impressive moulding, and the PE fret provided some of the smaller levers plus the rudder pedal

straps. Xtracrylix XA1010 RAF Aircraft Grey/Green Matt BS283 (www.hannants.co.uk) was used for the main cockpit colour. Parts D11 and D12 replicated the inner walls of the intake ducting,

while the outer surfaces formed the cockpit sidewalls. Three PE intake vanes slotted into each section, which could then be fitted into openings in the aircraft’s internals. Unfortunately, when it came to actually marrying the fuselage sections, the completed cockpit and intake trunk assembly didn’t fit at all as the instructions suggested. Applying even the slightest pressure to bring the halves together resulted in the PE intake vanes snapping out of their slots and bending. An attempt was made to deepen the openings in the fuselage sides with a razor saw, but this technique was fraught with risk as cutting all the way through the styrene would have been very easy. Eventually, after straightening the metal items as much as possible, it was decided to trim them along their lengths, narrowing them by about 40-thou (1mm). The three-layered instrument panel was also not thin enough to fit the narrow slots in the cockpit sides, resulting in damage and deformity from this assembly as well. Even the styrene section on its own was overly thick for the spaces, but once sanded, painted and the optional decal

INTERMEDIATE BUILD GLOSTER E.28/39

gauges applied, it was eventually squeezed into place. The recommended 1/3oz (10g) of nose weight was then installed behind the instrument panel. Fitting the cockpit/intake sub-assembly into the fuselage required a substantial amount

of sanding and filing, followed by the use of a Berna clamp (www. berna-clamps.e-monsite.com) to hold the halves in place while liquid cyanoacrylate (CA) glue was flowed along the seams to ensure a solid bond. I’m always prepared to accept

that such fit issues may have been of my own making, although it’s hard to see how they could have been prevented. All parts were cleared of flash and mould stubs, paint removed at attachment points, and everything appeared to be fixed in its correct location.

Whittled down Wing halves went together without a problem, but the completed assembly couldn’t be installed cleanly below the fuselage; the rear cockpit bulkhead interfering with the leading edge of the mainplane’s centre-section.

Pocket-size power The resin and PE Power Jets W.1 engine was a kit in itself. Like the main aircraft model, it was not a straightforward build – aligning the ten gas discharge pipes (Part R4) with the combustion chambers (R3) took several attempts – but the result was impressive for its diminutive size. Several additional items, including a PE wiring harness and the jet pipe were supplied for the fuselage installation option – these were not utilised for this project. Gator Glue (www.everbuild.co.uk), a PVA-based adhesive (white glue), was used to assemble the components initially, but once everything was aligned thin CA was flowed into the joins to bond them permanently. The plethora of resin parts for the powerplant were superbly detailed, and removal of the casting blocks wasn’t too onerous.

 Holes were drilled into concealed areas of the cast components so they could be impaled on cocktail sticks to aid painting.  Part PE36 bore little resemblance to its assembly drawing – yet this was disregarded as the item was dropped and stepped on accidentally, mangling it beyond use.

 Various shades from the Alclad range (www.alclad2.com) were used for the metallic areas, and a black-brown oil wash accentuated the detail.

 The engine’s front end also displayed exquisite detail, though reference photos show a mass of wiring and piping that could be replicated in model form.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 19

INTERMEDIATE BUILD GLOSTER E.28/39

The undercarriage featured excellent detail, though it was a fiddly feature to assemble; attaching the tiny mudguards and bracing strips was an exercise in patience. The latter parts were supplied as PE items, but after a couple of failed attempts to bend them smoothly over the mudguards, elastic EZ Line (www. modellingtools.co.uk) was used instead. Despite the aircraft demonstrating a slightly ‘nose-up’ stance, it was reassuring to see that sufficient nose weight had been added for the model to sit on its tricycle undercarriage.

Painting and finishing  The shade applied to the aircraft’s underside, in this case XA1011 RAF Trainer Yellow, was sprayed in several light coats over the white primer base.

As a result, a Dremel motor-tool was called into action to remove material from both areas until a satisfactory fit was achieved. The engine cover (A6) was also too wide for its aperture, and thus needed significant remedial work to achieve a smooth ‘blend’ into the fuselage contours – unfortunately, many of the panel

lines were lost in the process, and these were duly re-scribed. After this manipulation of the styrene, the fin, ailerons and horizontal stabilisers were fitted. Two of the decal options had the additional vertical ‘finlets’ on the stabs, so it was important to ensure the correct parts were used at this stage.

Having decided to depict the airframe W4046 in the Ocean Grey/Dark Green/Trainer Yellow scheme, the model was primed with decanted Tamiya 87044 White Surface Primer (www. hobbyco.net) before receiving several light coats of XA1011 RAF Trainer Yellow. Xtracrylix paints were also used for the camouflage, with XA1006 RAF Ocean Grey and XA1001 RAF Dark Green BS241 being utilised. As the

chosen aircraft was a prototype, it would have been kept clean, so faded camouflage or postshading effects were deemed unnecessary; the only concession to modelling style was a panel line wash of heavily diluted Dark Umber oil paint. A gloss coat was applied with X-22 Clear, which was diluted with Mr. Color Leveling Thinner (www.albionhobbies.com), then the final finish was a light overspray of Model Master SemiGloss lacquer (www.testors.com). The kit-supplied decals were superb, well printed and settled easily into the surface detail. Three of the markings options were for camouflaged aircraft, but the fourth was an overall aluminium-toned scheme with red control surfaces. Furthermore, although the rudder was demonstrably a darker colour, no photos could be found to suggest the rest of the control surfaces were the same shade.

Final thoughts Clear Prop Model’s 1/72 Gloster E.28/39 Pioneer is undoubtedly the most detailed and accurate

“a total of 186 items were provided”

 Once the yellow had cured fully, the wheel wells were masked and sprayed silver as this was considered easier than spraying them first and masking them from the inside.

20

Airfix Model World

 Blu Tack ‘squiggles’ and Parafilm were stuck on to the airframe after the application of XA1006 Ocean Grey airframe, after which XA1001 RAF Dark Green BS241 was airbrushed.

model of the type in any scale, and so the manufacturer is to be commended for envisaging such an ambitious first release. However, the amount of work required to achieve an acceptable result must be weighed into the equation, especially considering how little can be seen of all the cockpit detail, and the overall size of the finished model. In fairness, the box labelling demonstrates the kit is clearly aimed at experienced modellers, and some personal naivety must be acknowledged for expecting the kit’s precision to match that shown on the company’s promotional video.

 Tamiya’s X-22 Clear was diluted with Mr. Color Leveling Thinner, before Model Master Semi-Gloss lacquer provided the final lustre.  An odd deposit was found inside the canopy when the masking was removed – fortunately the clear part was attached with PVA and was easily removed, along with the residue.

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG 2020

NUREMBERG NEWS

 IBG Models won many plaudits with its lovely 1/72 PZL.11s, and looks set to do the same with its highly detailed 1/32 offering of this early World War Two fighter.

A

t first glance, there were several notable absences at this year’s Nuremberg Toy Fair, including Hasegawa, Kinetic and Takom, but these were balanced by the first-time presence of firms such as Copper State Models, SMER and Dora Wings. The great news for modellers was that there were plenty of new announcements and quite a few surprises. These included the unveiling of the first 1/35 Cromwell Mk.IV test-shot from Airfix and newly tooled offerings from IBG Models and Eduard in

the shape of a 1/32 PZL.11 and 1/48 Spitfire Mk.I respectively.

Plenty to choose from While Airfix had made its big announcements at Telford last November and earlier this year, the presence of test-shots for the Cromwell and the first Beginner Sets (Spitfire, Hawk, Tiger I and Sherman Firefly) drew much attention. While emphasis was placed on the firm’s armour releases, there were also CAD images of the forthcoming 1/72 Beaufort and Vulcan. There are four major new Italeri

 Italeri devoted a large amount of display space for its 1/24 Scania Streamline 143H, highlighting the various colour schemes and newly tooled parts.

22

Airfix Model World

Chinese splendour

As usual, the joint Trumpeter/Hobby Boss stand was dominated by the former’s 1/200 ships, with a converted Olympia (Titanic’s sister ship) taking centre stage. Strangely, the new announcements were pushed to the rear, with new toolings for a 1/200 Scharnhorst and 1/350 Bismarck mixed with a 1/32 A-26 Invader, 1/35 Jackal Mk.I High-Mobility Weapons Platform and a Soviet BREM-1 engineering vehicle in the same scale.

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG 2020

Czech tour de force

The highlight on the Brengun/Hauler stand was the former’s Firebee drone twin packs. These are styrene kits and are due for release later this year, along with a special edition that will include just one airframe plus a resin ground-handling trolley. The firm will continue re-boxing the Attack Squadron range and many will also be released in 1/32 scale. Along with a huge number of photo-etched and resin accessories, Hauler will be adding HO scale (1/87) vehicles to its range, with the first two being an MB T-80 Rekordwagen (HLR87201) and a Street Sweeper (HLR87202). Eduard, which transformed its stand into a replica of a World War Two RAF squadron hut, will delight many modellers with its 1/48 Spitfire Mk.Ia, which will be released in all three formats (ProfiPACK, Weekend and Royal) to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. A Czech favourite will also feature, in the shape of a 1/72 Z-37 Cmelák, while the company’s Fishbed collection will expand to include early short-chord MiG-21PFs. With re-boxings of Hasegawa’s 1/72 B-26 Marauder and Revell’s 1/48 Tornado GR.1, there’s much for aviation modellers to enjoy in 2020. Similarly, Special Hobby/CMK had lots on offer, with a newly tooled 1/72 Heinkel He 162 and updated 1/72 MPM Piaggio P.1088. There were also tantalising runner test shots of delights such as a 1/48 Reggiane Re.2000 Falco, Re.2005 Sagittario, 1/72 Gloster Meteor NF.11, Fairey Albacore, A-1F Skyraider, Tachikawa Ki-54 and Martin B-10, plus fuselage halves for a 1/32 Westland Whirlwind Mk.I.

 The highlight on Airfix’s stand had to be the first glimpse of its newly tooled 1/35 Cromwell, which will feature rubber-band-style tracks, options for open/closed hatches and Mark III Prongs (hedgerow cutters).

 Similarly, the company’s initial ‘Beginner Set’ offerings were on display, with a Spitfire and Hawk T.1, plus the Sherman Firefly and Tiger I as seen here.

releases planned for 2020, the most notable being a 1/32 Tornado GR.4, while truck fans will appreciate the 1/24 Scania Streamline 143H 6x2 and there’s also a 1/35 Semovente M42 da 75/18 self-propelled gun. Last, the firm’s massive 1/35 Schnellboot is being back-dated to depict an S-26/S-38 vessel. Other

tantalising offerings include a 1/48 Spitfire Mk.I and 1/12 Lancia Delta HF Integrale, while Protar’s 1/9 BMW 1000 and Yamaha Ténéré 660 will return in Italeri boxing with Paris-Dakar race liveries. Poland’s IBG Models is set for a busy 2020, with the highlight being the newly tooled 1/32 PZL 11.c fighter, although fans of

Top take-aways While picking the ‘best on show’ is highly subjective, the following (listed alphabetically) were arguably the most significant kits announced/on display at Nuremberg this year: • Academy 1/144 B-52 • Eduard 1/48 Spitfire Mk.Ia • IBG Models 1/32 PZL.11 • ICM 1/24 Benz Patent-Motorwagen 1886 • MiniArt 1/35 Panzer IV Ausf.J • Trumpeter 1/350 Bismarck

 Tamiya featured several new-tool armour kits on its stand, including a 1/35 French R35 Light Tank and this 1/35 KV-1 Model 1941 (Early Production).

 Modellers wanting to ‘spice up’ their Eduard 1/48 Tempest Mk.Vs will find themselves spoiled by CMK’s resin extras, including a powerplant and fuel tank.

 There was a historical gem on the ICM stand, in the form of its all-new 1/24 Benz Patent-Motorwagen 1886. This will be accompanied by several figure sets, including one depicting the first trial run with Karl Benz’s wife, Bertha, at the wheel.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 23

OUT AND ABOUT NUREMBERG 2020

Teutonic treats

 Revell will continue to release Bandai’s Star Wars kits in Europe, with this year’s subjects being a Death Star and Star Destroyer, plus a 1/72 B-Wing.

German distributor Modellbau-König has added to its German World War Two ‘what-if’ range (top upper photo) with a Ju EF-125 ‘Elli’/EF-127 ‘Walli’ pulse-jet-propelled fighter (DW32001). Coincident with its release will be a range of wood grain decals and metal polishing powders for those modellers wanting an unpainted machine. Revell offered something for every modeller, from 1/72 Top Gun: Maverick-related ‘easyclick’ releases to Technik versions of its 1/400 Titanic and 1/32 Spitfire Mk.IXc. There will also be Platinum-Edition 1/48 B-29 Superfortress (ex-Monogram), 1/72 Gato-class submarine and 1/400 USS Enterprise CVN-65. Five all-new armour releases are planned (M109A6, Scud-B, PT-76B, Grille Ausf.M and Marder III Ausf.M), along with a 100-piece ‘easy-click’ 1/24 VW T2 Bus, but the auto highlight (lower photo) has to be the samescale Jaguar E-Type (07668). The company also celebrates 40 years since the release of The Empire Strikes Back with re-boxings of the AT-AT, Snowspeeder and Slave I, plus it will distribute Bandai’s gorgeous 1/72 B-Wing and 1/2,700,000 Death Star II and 1/14,500 Star Destroyer combo. Importer/distributor Glow2B collaborated with several manufacturers for their display, with products from Modelsvit and Meng available to see. However, the big news was the firm’s acquisition of the Heller brand, and there will be a comprehensive release schedule throughout 2020.

 Glow2B will be the sole European distributor for Meng’s The Wandering Earth kits, which will feature key equipment from this Chinese sci-fi film, such as the Navigational Platform Space Station. All will be snap-together products, with pre-coloured styrene.

24

Airfix Model World

 Despite a busy release schedule that will include new Panzer IV and T-34 toolings, MiniArt has continued to expand its T-54/55 range, with a converted Lebanese APC.

small-scale armour will arguably prefer the 1/72 Scammell Pioneer tractor and tank transporter kits, also due this year. On the maritime front, its selection of pre-war Royal Navy destroyers has been expanded to include the H-Class, with the first offerings being HMS Hotspur 1941 (70009), followed by HMS

Harvester 1943 (70010). Figure and decal specialist ToRo Model is re-releasing its acclaimed 1/48 Italian Street scene in plaster (rather than the previous resin), while also adding to its Silesian Uprising 1921 series with a set of Insurgent Machine Gunners (35F125). Other highlights include 1940s

 Zvezda’s recent 1/72 Su-30SM Flanker-C (7314) was displayed in multi-role configuratio; this was accompanied by an all-new 1/35 Pantsyr-S1 ‘SA-22 Greyhound’, Bumerang Armoured Personnel Carrier and 1/350 Dolphin (Delta-IV) class ballistic missile submarine (9062)

civilian figures, such as a florist, a separate stall, rickshaw and driver, plus individual female passengers, all in accurate period clothing. There seemed to be a reduced presence from Far Eastern companies, but Academy teased visitors with test shots of its newly tooled 1/72 F-14A Tomcat (12563) and runners for a 1/72 F-35B Lightning II. The company will also be releasing an all-new 1/144 Multi-Color Plastic B-52 to accompany its B-1B, as well as a 1/48 F3F-2 US Navy fighter. Tamiya offered a mix of 1/35 and 1/48 military subjects, with a French R35 light tank (36373) and KV-1 Model 1941 among the former and a T-55 (32598) in the latter. Aircraft releases were restricted to updated moulds for its Mustang to build a Korean War F-51D, while auto modellers have a 1/12 Kawasaki Ninja H2 (14136), 1/24 Mazda Roadster RF and Ford Mustang GT4 to savour.

VIEW MORE ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com

 Protar’s kits were popular among auto modellers, so it’s great to see classics such as its 1/9 Yamaha Ténéré 660 being re-introduced by Italeri.

 A prototype of Revell’s new modelling workstation was on display, with pre-shaped openings for paint, glue and brushes.

Ukrainian wonders

It’s another busy year ahead for ICM, of which the standout item was its newly tooled Benz Patent-Motorwagen 1886 (see News, P.? for details). The first of four products to coincide with the TV series Chernobyl comes in the form of a Zil131KShM Radiation Monitoring Station (35901), as well as clean-up crews and a fire-fighting vignette. Further offerings include an Sd.KFZ.247 Ausf.B Command Armoured Vehicle (35110), while the U-2/Po-2VS (72243) looks to be a smallscale highlight. Quarter-scale fans will have a Do 217J-1/J-2 (48272), O-2A Skymaster (48290) and huge Heinkel He-111 Zwilling (48260). The company’s 1/32 Gladiator will be joined by an all-new 1/32 Stearman PT-17/N2S-3 Kaydet (32050). MiniArt has wowed military modellers with its interior detail kits and looks set to do the same with the Panzer IV – the first release will be a late-war Ausf-J – and T-34 initially in /85 configuration. Examples of its recent 1/35 B-Type Bus (38021) and M3 Lee (35287) – see News, P.? also featured, along with its latest T-54/55 iterations: Mod.1970 with OMSh tracks (37064) and an SLA Heavy APC-54 (37055). Relative newcomer Dora Wings was making its first appearance at the show and brought along its latest release, a 1/48 Vega 5B in colour scheme of Amelia Earhart’s aircraft when she became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic in 1932. Other treasures on the way include a 1/72 Miles M.9a Master I, Fairey Delta FD.2, 1/48 Moraine-Saulnier MS.230 and a 1/32 Dewoitine D.500/501.

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

Iron Annie

J

 For a 20-year-old moulding, the detail on the styrene was crisp and replicated the complex corrugated surfaces beautifully.

 Cockpit and troop/cargo areas were large and highly visible, and these featured convincing detail on the bulkheads.

26

Airfix Model World

MODEL SPEC

Richard Spreckley uses Revell’s 1/48 kit of the Junkers Ju 52/3mg4e to build a quarter-scale model of a type that served in Libya, North Africa, during 1943

unkers’ Ju 52/3m was developed in the early 1930s, and despite its age became the backbone of the German military transport fleet, specialising in heavy lift transport, deploying paratroopers in all theatres and as a passenger aircraft. Nearly 5,000 were built between 1930-52 (its later service was as a passenger airliner for several national carriers). Revell’s kit depicted the standard military transport version – its most striking feature was the three

Junkers Ju 52/3mg4e Transport By:

Revell

Stock Code:

03918

Scale:

1/48

Price:

€49.99

Available from: www.revell.de/en

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

(a genuine, if surprising feature) allowed varying sizes of cargo to be loaded on the ground and released either while airborne or having landed at a destination. However, the North African campaign featured the aircrafts’ heaviest

losses in combat against Allied forces; in one day alone, 24 of the type were shot down.

 Revell’s cargo/troop-carrying area design meant the hatches and doors could be cut and removed easily – this would allow better visual access to the interior.

Styrene contents This is a reasonably large aircraft in 1/48 scale, and this was reflected in the box size. There were just five runners in total; four large frames of off-white plastic and one clear example. My first impressions were that as a two-decade old tooling it was a basic offering, in contrast to Revell marketing it as one of its ‘Level 5’ kits (denoting the highest complexity level from this manufacturer). On closer inspection, though, the detail for an injection-moulded kit appeared sublime, especially in the cockpit and interior. Engines and exhaust systems were also well-moulded renditions

BMW 132A-3 radial engines and its corrugated ‘skin’, which provided unprecedented strength. The type proved itself in locations ranging from the arctic to the desert and could carry 18 soldiers or 12 stretchers in a medical role. Its side-loading doors plus two personnel and bomb-bay doors

of their complex shapes, and another impressive feature was the crisp, corrugated effect on the exterior surfaces. The kit provided two markings options, one for a Europe-

 A small transparent frame provided the clear parts, including a pair of cockpit framing styles, passenger windows and interior light covers.

 Four neatly detailed Fallschirmjäger (paratroopers) figures were each moulded in a different pose and formed ideal material to enhance the interest and sense of scale.

 After a primer coat, the base colour was airbrushed onto the interior, followed by a postshade to accentuate the moulded relief.

 Integrally moulded airframe equipment was hand-painted, sealed with a gloss varnish and then treated with a dark brown wash. www.airfixmodelworld.com 27

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

F o r a 2 0-ye ar-o l d m o u l d in g, t he d e t ai l o n t he st yr en e wa s c ri s p’’

 Kit components provided excellent detail in the interior, which was enhanced with the aftermarket resin pilot seats. Once painted, these added considerable visual interest to the area.

deployed airframe and one based in North Africa; the latter scheme stood out with temporary desert camouflage superimposed over the standard splinter scheme and this was chosen for the build. There were no aircrew included in this kit, but a neat addition was four Fallschirmjäger (paratrooper) figures in various poses – these were ideal for adding a sense of scale and visual interest. The new-style Revell instructions were well presented and easy to follow, but a first glance revealed the sole issue; the lack of painting guidance for the figures. The standard uniform for the European theatre of operations was given, but no advice was provided for North African troops.

All in the detail Prior to starting construction, it was essential the instructions and parts were studied carefully, as there were several ‘interesting’ elements provided that weren’t clear in the former – these could add another dimension to this model if desired. The interior was a model in itself; mouldings were crisp and the detail, especially around the cockpit, radio station, rear bulkhead and rear gun emplacement, appeared excellent. On most models of this type, these features would be hidden when

28

Airfix Model World

the fuselage was closed, but Revell included an option to leave the ceiling/roof unattached, allowing it to be removed to expose the innards. Unfortunately, the fit, although good, would potentially make the final model appear unfinished. A viable alternative – yet not shown in the instructions – was the removal of the upper fuselage hatch plus the starboard loading and cargo doors, all of which were moulded to allow them to be separated. It was therefore decided to take advantage of this to showcase the interior. The kit also featured two types of clear glazing, one full canopy and another with the top section removed – intended for the installation of a forward defensive machine gun – as another way of revealing cockpit detail, and this option was exercised. With scope for the interior to be viewable from various angles, many of the internal components were painted prior to assembly, including the seating and supporting frameworks that ran along the inside of the fuselage. If the latter were assembled and then painted, gaps in coverage would be clearly visible through the aircraft’s numerous windows. The only items replaced with aftermarket products were the pilot/co-pilot seats – Quickboost’s QB 48 568 (www.quickboost.

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

 All engine parts were kept on the runner for ease of painting – a gloss black primer was applied in preparation for metallic tones. The fuselage halves and lower hull sections featured exceptional fit – especially impressive given their size and the age of the moulding.

A post-shade plus a drybrushed application of metallic shades and a dark brown wash – followed by matt varnish – was used to complete internal floor and bulkhead weathering.

net) was a highly detailed set that complemented the kit’s features. Due to their resin construction, the components were washed in warm soapy water and dried to remove any curing agent, then all parts were primed with Ultimate Modelling Products’ UMP027 Grey Primer (www.umpretail.com). This was followed by the interior colour, which research revealed to be a grey/green tone and this

was replicated via a mix of Vallejo’s 71.093 Field Green FS 39404 – now known as NATO Green FS 39404 – and 71.307 BS Medium Sea Grey BS637 (www.creativemodels. co.uk). This custom shade was used to simulate high wear, and the flooring and access ways around the bulkheads were then postshaded, with the interior colour lightened via a drop of Hataka’s HTK-A101 Traffic White (www.

hataka-hobby.com). The radio station, wiring and canvas curtain on the cockpit doorway received 71.251 NATO Black, 71.078 Yellow RLM04 and 70.314 Canvas, respectively, and to further accentuate these areas 77.702 Duraluminium was then dry-brushed on appropriate edges and surfaces. Seat harnesses were painted 71.119 White Grey, while the lovely instrument panel detail was

prepared and painted with 71.054 Dark Grey Blue and then sealed with 70.510 Gloss Varnish – along with all the other interior parts. A decal was then applied to the instrument panel and Micro Sol (www.microscale.com) added to encourage it to conform to the raised detail. Vallejo’s 76.513 Dark Brown Model Wash accentuated the moulded detail; this was allowed to dry partially before

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

 An important aspect to remember was that the instrument coaming required painting after the fuselage halves were married. Here, it has received the interior shade.

 After minor fettling and sanding to remove a seam, the nose area detail was re-scribed. Note, the clear part was also painted with the interior shade prior to priming.

 Revell’s styrene components displayed excellent moulded detail, extending to the BMW 132A-3 engines.

any excess was removed with damp cotton pads/buds. The fuselage halves were then attended to, prior to the final assembly of the interior. All glazing was dipped in AK Interactive’s AK893 Glass Coat Gauzy Agent (www.ak-interactive.com), which gave a crystal-clear finish and disguised any imperfections or blemishes in the clear parts. Once dry, they were attached to the fuselage halves and covered with the aid of Eduard’s EX655 Ju 52 mask set. The same painting and weathering processes as the interior were then applied to the fuselage ceiling, doors and hatches, which had been removed previously. All elements were then assembled and attached to one airframe half, after which 70.520 Matt Varnish was employed to seal everything. There were several notable elements, such as the lights on the aircraft’s roof, which were supplied with beautifully moulded clear plastic covers. Unfortunately, there was minimal

 Very little filler was required on this build – a testament to how well the parts fitted together.  Ordinary clingfilm is an excellent medium for masking, especially to fill internal spaces such as on the engine cowlings.

30

Airfix Model World

information of what colour these were, so a best guess was used, and they were treated with 71.003 Red RLM23 before adding the transparent shrouds. Forward planning meant the engines, exhausts, guns and associated mounting systems

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

 Corrugated surfaces were accentuated for excellent contrast effects; the underside colour was post-shaded to enhance the illusion of depth.

 The mainwheels featured lovely, if subtle detailing – this was highlighted with drybrushing techniques and a sand-coloured wash.

were sprayed with 73.660 Surface Primer Gloss Black in readiness for their metallic coverings. Similarly, the wheels were assembled and treated with UMP027 Grey Primer, along with the Fallschirmjäger figures, propellers and engine cowlings. The inside of these last items were then painted as per the fuselage interior, while the wheels received 71.251 NATO Black – these

add depth. Hubs were then brushpainted with 71.050 Light Grey, and 77.701 Aluminium was dry-brushed on the propeller edges and the wheel rims to simulate wear. Last, a wash of 76.522 Desert Dust was added to the wheels to reflect the sandy conditions in which this aircraft would have operated. The lower half of the starboard cargo hatch featured a wood finish to assist loading/unloading cargo – here, an Uschi van der Rosten 1016 Aircraft Interior Textures decal (www.uschivdr.com) was applied to achieve this appearance. This was then sealed with gloss varnish and treated to a dark brown wash. The engines then received 77.701 Aluminium with the cylinder heads brush-painted with 71.706 White Aluminium, followed by 77.712 Steel for the ignition wires and 77.723 Exhaust

were then masked via customsized pieces of tape made with a silhouette cutter and painted Tamiya XF-85 Rubber Black (www.hobbyco.net). The kit propellers – which in my view didn’t seem large enough – were coloured with 71.057 Black, followed by 71.251 NATO Black, which was airbrushed lightly across the axis of the blades to

Manifold on the exhaust systems. All three powerplants were sealed with 26.657 Metal Gloss Varnish, with a 76.517 Dark Grey wash to accentuate the detail, after which the exhausts were added.

Fallschirmjäger and cargo The paratroopers were set in different poses, representing a four-man ‘stick’ waiting to board the aircraft. As this build depicted North African operations, it was important the figures reflected the camouflage scheme for that theatre. Research was undertaken to source descriptions and photos of the relevant uniform and equipment used by Fallschirmjäger troops during that period. Quarter-scale figures are minute, and a balance must be struck to replicate the complex camouflage patterns with the amount of detailed painting used. The aim was to produce an impression of the uniforms using 71.025 Dark Yellow, 71.093 Field Green, 71.095 Pale Green plus Hataka’s A017 Dark Green. After taking advice from a figure modeller, the paratroopers received a base colour of 71.028 Sand Yellow, then the camouflaged jackets and helmets were brush-painted. Highlights were then dry-brushed with a lightened mix of the base colour – achieved by adding a hint of A101 White.

T he b i g g e st d i l e mm a wa s ho w t o a p pl y t he t e m po r ar y d e s ert s c he m e o ver t he s pl in t er pat t er n’’ www.airfixmodelworld.com 31

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

O p enin g t he l o ad in g hat c he s t o t he air f r am e invi t ed ex t r a d e t ai l in g’’

LifeColor flesh tones UA 709 and UA 711 (www. airbrushes.com) were employed for the faces, after which the figures were sealed with 70.510 Gloss Varnish and given a 76.513 Dark Brown wash, before 70.520 Matt Varnish was used to protect the finish. They were set on 20-thou (0.5mm) clear plastic sheet to prevent them from falling over – this also allow them to be displayed in different

configurations. The Ju 52’s versatility meant it could carry cargo alongside paratroopers – an ideal feature with this build featuring both the top hatch and side cargo doors open. Unfortunately, there was nothing supplied to represent such a load, but Plus Model’s set 4023 Ammunition and Medical Aid Containers - Germany WW II (www.plusmodel.cz) contained a variety of items, which included ammunition boxes, medical equipment and crates. These were painted randomly in the custommixed interior green colour, 71.028 Sand Yellow and 71.077 Wood. Metal containers were then drybrushed with 77.701 Aluminium, sealed with a gloss varnish and given a dark grey wash. The

 The figures were painted in a representation of North African uniforms, which were determined after a study of reference photos as this isn’t detailed in the instructions.

32

Airfix Model World

medical items had decals applied before the final wash process, after which they were finished with 70.520 Matt Varnish.

Aircraft assembly Construction of the airframe and wings was straightforward, and for a 20-year-old kit most areas featured a tight fit. Revell designed this kit with a section of removable upper fuselage plus the underside section also included wing stubs – as a result the airframe halves married well, but the long structure didn’t feel very sturdy. Having already removed all the aircraft’s access doors, the main elements were attached permanently. The Ju 52’s wingspan appears huge and the detail visible across this large section

continued to excel, with the corrugated effect really ‘standing out’ and appearing in scale to a ‘mark-one eyeball’. Just a single issue was encountered, and that was a slight warping on the engine nacelles, which required taping and clamping to conform to the correct shape. An identifying feature of the Ju 52’s wings was the stepped ailerons, in model form these were secured at several points along the upper wing. They were left off the aircraft until they were painted, and during the build were found to be fragile – several were broken due to handling – fortunately, all were recovered and re-attached.

 Opening the loading hatches to the airframe invited extra detailing – Plus Model provided standard medical and ammunition-specific boxes of varying sizes.

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

The base coat for the splinter pattern was applied and left to dry for 24 hours before masking.

Masking was conducted in stages due to the complexity of the scheme – once completed, the camouflage received post-shading effects before the temporary desert livery was applied.

to assist in the masking for the splinter camouflage.

Desert style

Elevators were posed offset to add extra dynamism to the finished model. The lower fuselage joins were particularly impressive as this area can often cause modellers stressful moments, but this was not the case for this kit; the fairly complex boxed and stepped shape at the nose fitted like a glove and required no fettling or filler. All antenna and small details were omitted at this stage to ensure there was an unobstructed surface

Hataka’s splendid HTK-AS02 Early Luftwaffe paint set provided colour matches to the splinter pattern required for this build; in this case A017 Dark Green (RLM71) and A015 Black-Green (RLM70). Vallejo’s 71.025 Dark Yellow was selected for the temporary desert scheme, which was then applied over the angular ‘splinter’ camouflage. All fuselage openings were masked before UMP027 Grey Primer was applied. A 71.054 Dark Grey Blue pre-shade was used on the lower fuselage, followed by 71.008 Pale Blue, which was sprayed lightly to build paint layers gradually. White was then added to the base colour for a post-shade, adding contrast and depth. The splinter pattern was copied

from the European option; A017 Dark Green (RLM71) was applied after the lower fuselage was masked and allowed to cure for 24 hours. There was concern the corrugated surfaces would cause problems in achieving the sharp straight lines of the standard Luftwaffe camouflage, but these fears were unfounded as the masking proved sufficient to achieve the desired effect using A017 Black Green. Due to the size of the aircraft – and the way the splinter scheme fell between the wings and fuselage sections – the masking process was undertaken in stages, covering the mainplanes first. As before, post-shading was then completed by lightening the base colours with white. The biggest dilemma was how to apply the temporary desert scheme over the splinter pattern – spraying a light colour over

a dark pattern is fraught with risk of overspray and ‘splatter’. Consideration was given to masking the complex shapes over the European scheme, but this would have produced a ‘hard’ demarcation and, having conducted research, it was clear the desert scheme wasn’t precise in its application. Hence, a ‘rough and ready’ finish was achieved using freehand airbrushing with a cotton bud immediately at hand to remove any obvious excess. Initially, the impression was that the base colour, 71.025 Dark Yellow, overpowered the post-shaded European theatre camouflage, so two lightened applications of this tone were used to mute the sandy hues. This had the desired effect, blending the two camouflage schemes, so the final appendages and antenna were duly pre-painted and attached.

 There was concern the clear backing of the decals would silver when applied to the corrugated surface, hence this was removed to minimise any issues. www.airfixmodelworld.com 33

BASIC BUILD JUNKERS JU 52/3M

 A risk when applying the 71.025 Dark Yellow was overspray – masking would result in a hard demarcation, so care was taken to set the airbrush at 12 psi (0.82 bar).

Corrugated challenge A gloss varnish was sprayed in preparation for decaling, but there was considerable apprehension that the corrugated effect would warp, distort and/or prevent the decals from settling properly. It certainly presented a risk, especially for the large Balkenkreuz on the wing and fuselage. The decals were well printed and the carrier film didn’t appear overly thick, although as on most modern German kits from Revell, swastikas for the tail were missing – these were sourced from aftermarket products. The potential for silvering was

34

Airfix Model World

also high due to the uneven surfaces, so to reduce this much of the backing sheet was removed prior to applying the decals. A damp piece of kitchen paper was used to press each marking into position and, once satisfied with the placement, a generous amount of Micro Sol was added. The decals behaved wonderfully and, with the assistance of the fixative, conformed to the complex shapes. Further weathering was required prior to adding the engines; 71.119 Grey White was used for exhaust staining, with an overspray of 77.713 Jet Exhaust. Streaks of 71.074 Radome Tan (now labelled

 A significant amount of decal fixative was required to ensure the markings conformed to the complex fuselage surface and shape.

Beige) and 71.028 Sand Yellow were applied to the lower fuselage and wings, along with extremely pale mixes of the upper and lower camouflage colours. Chipping effects were achieved via AK10046 Metallic Effects weathering pencils, while oil staining was created with Tamiya’s 87088 Weathering Master Set D. Once completed, all access doors and cargo were secured to finish the build – the final stage was to apply a thin coat of matt varnish over the whole model.

On reflection For its age, Revell’s 1/48 Junkers Ju 52/3mg4e Transport is superb

– the standard kit detail and quality of engineering provides a product that allows modellers of any skill level the opportunity to produce an excellent replica. It’s very forgiving and presents a foundation for adding further elements which could even extend to a full diorama, although this does highlight one issue – the main drawback to this kit: its size. Once built, Revell’s Ju 52 deserves a display space that will do it justice, but this shouldn’t be the overriding factor when considering this kit; it certainly punches above its weight on build quality and value for money.

WWW.MAGICSCALEMODELING.COM Plug & Play Electronics For Advanced Plastic Modelers Battle of Britain Combo 1/48th Electronics Sound & Engines

Avro Lancaster - 1/32 Plug & Play Electronics for Lighting, Sound & Engines

€98

€79 For both kit

s

Discount cod e: AFX201 9

€119 PRE-O RDER

NOW AVAILA

BLE!

What is your dream?

035_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

19/02/2020 11:55:38

This month we look at how to enhance the moulded detail on cockpit interiors via dry-brushing techniques and dark-toned washes, with the adage ‘less is more’ being a key rule of thumb

W

Let there be light!

henever you look into a real aircraft or vehicle, those areas furthest from the observer always appear darker, as less light is reflected from those sections. If we look at this from a purely technical aspect, for kits with moulded detail or that use laminated photo-etched parts (such as an instrument panel or interior framework), to build height/depth into an interior, merely painting these areas should be enough. More light will be reflected from the upper areas, but scale then comes into play – often the cockpits/hatches are too small, the colour scheme is monotone or the interior is too shallow for this to become noticeable, so a common modelling technique is to exaggerate these differences. While there are many ways of

 For dry-brushing all that’s needed is a fairly stiff brush, kitchen towel (to remove excess paint), cotton buds, a mixing tray and the desired colour of paint.

 The cockpit of Airfix’s 1/72 Jet Provost T.3 received a protective layer of varnish prior to any highlighting or shadow effects being added.  Although there are many pre-mixed wash products available, one of the simplest is to use oils and white spirit – these are very cheap in the long run, and can be blended into the underlying colours.

36

Airfix Model World

PART 4: THE ILLUSION OF DEPTH PROTECTIVE LAYERS It’s important to use a different formula of varnish to the paint and wash to prevent damaging the underlying tones. The accompanying tables offer a handy guide:

A brush, with almost all paint removed from it, is rubbed gently against the raised surfaces to leave an outline – don’t worry if the change appears small, as it’s easier to build the effect gradually.

achieving this, we’ll stick to just the basic forms, using a combination of dry-brushing to provide highlights and washes to create shadows.

Where to begin A good rule of thumb when creating these effects is to work from light to dark. Another is that ‘less is more’ – it’s easier to add small amounts of paint than to remove them if applied too heavily. The article will concentrate on Airfix’s 1/72 Jet Provost which, as seen in the accompanying photo, has received an acrylic varnish since its appearance in the last issue. This layer is an important addition, as it forms a barrier between the base tones and subsequent work. A light grey tone was selected for the dry-brushing of the tub and sidewalls (the instrument panel is left alone as this will use the kit decals). Tools required are a stiff or flat brush, some

kitchen towel and a degree of patience. The brush is loaded with a small amount of paint, and most of this is then worked onto the kitchen towel, until almost no colour is deposited. It is then brushed lightly against any raised features, concentrating initially on the edges, with the process repeated until the desired effect is achieved. A common issue is getting frustrated with what can be apparently slow progress and applying paint more heavily, the consequences of which can be a very ‘blotchy’ finish. As you gain more practice in this skill, it’s possible to highlight ever smaller features, including instrument bezels and even the buttons for head-down cockpit displays (common in modern jets). Another benefit of dry-brushing is it can be used to lighten the tone of horizontal surfaces and create a tonal graduation on vertical faces, simulating greater reflection and decreasing exposure to the

A test-fit of the cockpit tub reveals how the light and dark areas make the moulded features ‘pop out’, relieving the appearance of what would otherwise be a monotone sub-assembly.

Base colour Enamel Lacquer Acrylic

Varnish Acrylic or lacquer Acrylic or enamel Enamel or lacquer

Varnish Enamel Lacquer Acrylic

Dry-brushing/wash Acrylic or oil Acrylic, enamel or oil Enamel or oil

 After a gloss varnish, a Raw Umber/Lamp Black wash was applied with a broad brush. It was left for several minutes, before any excess was removed with a cotton bud. The main reason for using these effects is to enhance the appearance of small cockpits (notably if they are dark toned) once the fuselage halves are joined.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 37

PART 4: THE ILLUSION OF DEPTH GLOSSARY

These effects can be used on any cockpit, here the internal components of Tamiya’s 1/48 P-38 Lightning have been enhanced with the techniques explained in this article.

Dry-brushing – This is a process using an almost paint-free brush to add small amounts of lighter-toned paint selectively to raised detail, usually on the edges or upper surfaces to simulate higher reflection from these areas. Wash – Usually formed from a diluted paint mix that’s darker than the interior colour, this is applied with a broad brush – the fluid will gather via capillary action around raised items, accentuating a shadow effect at the base, exaggerating their ‘height’. The most basic form comprises just paint and the corresponding thinners, although there are now a multitude of brands offering pre-mixed products for a whole variety of tones. Note, while a filter is similar to a wash, the former is intended to create tonal variation on surfaces, not to highlight detail. Other forms of wash are commonly employed on the exterior of vehicles/aircraft. These are: Pin wash – The name is derived from the use of a fine paint brush to exaggerate small features, such as weld beads, rivets and bolt heads on the exterior of armoured vehicles Panel line wash – As the name suggests, this is a wash applied to the engraved lines on an aircraft’s exterior. It's a very common addition to models, even if this effect is not actually visible on the fullsize machines.  It’s up to the modeller whether to use washes to highlight recessed detail or to open the apertures fully – Airfix’s Spitfire frame has the former effect on the left, and latter on the right.

light source respectively. The latter is a common method used by modellers with airbrushes, but can also be achieved with just a normal hand-held brush.

In the shade

after which any touch-up work or replicating the appearance of newly chipped or worn paint can be undertaken, depending upon personal choice. A matt or satin varnish (depending on the finish used on the real aircraft) then seals all the work to date. As a final touch on Airfix’s Jet Provost cockpit, the uppermost boxes/consoles received additional dry-brushing, just to pick out specific elements. The cockpit was then ready for decaling and insertion into the fuselage – once completed (and any other internal sub-assemblies added), the halves can then be closed and glued.

Modellers should note that washes are best applied to gloss surfaces as these help them to ‘flow’ and ‘pool’ around features; on matt finishes, a wash will tend to stain the surrounding area. This leads neatly to a common ‘gotcha’, and that is using the same form of paint/thinners as the underlying colours, as these can be damaged by the subsequent applications. Here, with enamels used, the best results were achieved using an acrylic varnish It’s not just painting (see Protective layers). When kit manufacturers mould components such as bulkheads Although an oil wash was used in this instance, the basic principles and structural frames, they often are the same. The colour is mixed represent lightening holes as to provide a contrast (but not just circular depressions. This provides two options for the too strong) with the underlying builder: either add a very dark paint, then diluted with thinners. wash to each or else drill them. As It is then applied with a standard seen in the lead photo of Airfix’s brush and allowed to pool round 1/48 Spitfire Mk.Ia, the interior any raised features. Any excess frames are shown with both is removed with a cotton bud, dry methods utilised. A pin vice and brush or kitchen towel. As with associated drills can be bought dry-brushing, repeated treatments from most hobby or craft are much better than a shops, and there is single heavy wash – usually at least one this also allows trader selling these you to fine-tune Keeping it neat – In May’s at model shows, the results. AMW, we build on the Back to making them a Once satisfied, Basics panels in several recent cheap and useful everything should issues to demonstrate how addition to be set aside to to eliminate seams, surface the toolbox. dry thoroughly, blemishes and gaps.

NEXT ISSUE

 Modern cockpits are a superb canvas for dry-brushing, with their myriad switches, circuit breaker and head-down display buttons all easy to improve with just a little effort.

38

Airfix Model World

follow us

www.ssnmodellbau.de [email protected]

SSN MODELLBAU Shop

087_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

The very best fittings and auxilliary products for your scale models

14/02/2020 12:55:31

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

AMERICA’S TIGER Dave Oliver builds Tamiya’s 1/35 M26 Pershing to represent machinery that provided the US military with a much-needed tank to take on the cutting edge of German armour

I

of German armour, including the Panther and Tiger I. Experience gained during the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944 had made these shortcomings glaringly obvious,

so a batch of 20 M26 Pershings were hurriedly sent to the European theatre to counter this threat. The development of the M26 was a long and convoluted process, involving several

MODEL SPEC

t took a long time for US military top brass to acknowledge what many Allied tank crews knew already: the M4 Sherman was significantly outclassed by the new generation

US Medium Tank M26 Pershing (T26E3) By:

Tamiya

Stock Code:

35254

Scale:

1/35

Price:

£34.99

Available from: www.hobbyco.net

prototypes and a seemingly intractable dispute about the tank’s general specification and role. The infantry argued that the self-propelled gun or tank destroyer should be prioritised, while others argued the vehicle was not required at all, citing the effectiveness of Shermans in North Africa. Events on the battlefield caused the high command to refocus its efforts and the M26 was pressed into limited service, acquitting itself admirably during the closing months of the war.

Going first

Assembling the Pershing’s intricate suspension system proved relatively straightforward due to the quality of the component parts and the clarity of the instructions.

40

Airfix Model World

Tamiya’s 1/35 M26 Pershing kit is supplied in a sturdy box with a detailed illustration of the purposeful vehicle on the front. The level of moulded detail on the dark green styrene is up to the

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

 Much filling and sanding was required to accommodate the various PE additions, including the front and rear attachment points for the light guards and their replacements.

 A dedicated PE bending tool was required to assemble the intricate stowage basket on the turret’s left-hand side – the added finesse of these aftermarket items were well worth the additional effort required to install them.

Japanese manufacturer’s usual high standard, as is the clear and precise instruction manual. One welcome element to the kit is the functioning suspension for the road wheels, a feature that was exploited when positioning the vehicle on a diorama base. Eduard’s 35503 photo-etched (PE) metal set was purchased to provide an extra level of detail to items such as the light guards and stowage box handles, while RB Model’s 35B085 turned metal barrel added another element of finesse for the main gun. It was decided the kit-supplied decals would be used, along with  RB Model’s replacement gun barrel was a marvellous piece of engineering. All parts fitted with no fettling, with just a hint of filler required for the remaining seams.

“TRACKS FEATURE A HIGH DEGREE OF MOULDED DETAIL ” www.airfixmodelworld.com 41

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

Aftermarket embellishments for the styrene machine gun took several nights of painstaking construction, but the extra level of detail they provided merited the extra work.

the rubber-band-style tracks, as these were well moulded and provided an accurate representation of those on the real vehicle.

Come out and fight Assembly commenced with the suspension – the road wheels at the front (which also acts as an idler on the Pershing) and rear

were sprung to provide tension for the tracks, helping to keep the non-flexible rollers positioned correctly. Tamiya illustrated both the order of construction and positioning of the suspension

 With all items glued to the hull and turret, the additional work could be appreciated. Care was required during painting to avoid dislodging any of the smaller items.  Reference photos of tanks in the field depicted distressed front mudguards. This was achieved via a heated scalpel blade, with care taken not to remove any moulded detail.

42

Airfix Model World

arms very clearly, which avoided any problems later in the build. Additionally, the accuracy of the styrene parts and the addition of different locating tabs for each piece made a potentially complicated process relatively straightforward. The vehicle’s upper hull was to receive many PE embellishments, which required numerous modifications to the moulded detail. Substituting the kit’s styrene mudguard brackets

necessitated significant filling and sanding, with Mr. Dissolved Putty and Flory Models’ Skinny sanding sticks used to fill locating holes for the kit parts. Intricate assemblies such as the light guards were challenging to bend to shape but, once positioned, these were great improvements over the styrene items; a pair of Tamiya 74067 Bending Pliers aided this aspect greatly. Other, larger assemblies (such as the basket on the left-hand side of the turret) required a dedicated Hold and Fold PE bending tool (www.thesmallshop. com) to ensure these complicated items conformed to the hull or

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

ON TRACK The kit’s vinyl tracks were deemed high-quality and were retained for this project. With little assembly required, attention focused mainly on the painting and weathering processes.

 A coat of Tamiya’s 87026 Grey Primer unified the various components and allowed the seams to be checked for blemishes. The turret and the hull were sprayed separately to ensure the surfaces were covered thoroughly.

turret contours. A turned metal barrel and muzzle brake from RB Model was a beautifully engineered sub-unit. Each section of the gun fitted together seamlessly and required very little neatening once the components were superglued – this provided a further focal point on the finished model. The .50 calibre machine gun positioned on the top of the turret also benefited from several PE embellishments;

 The rubber-band style tracks feature a high degree of moulded detail with minimal mould seams, negating the need for any alternative aftermarket items.

the ammunition box, bullet belt, stock and iron sight were all updated with thin brass items. Although assembly of these parts was complex in the extreme, they nevertheless provided an extra level of finesse.

The last battle Having seen several reference photos where the Pershings’ front mudguards were deformed to varying degrees, it was decided to simulate this effect by heating a craft knife and bending these frontal areas and selected other sections out of shape gently. Several attempts had to

 After a coat of Tamiya 87026 Grey Primer, several rust shades from LifeColor’s CS10 Dust and Rust set were used to provide variations in the base tone.

 MIG Productions’ Track P414 Track Brown and P025 Standard Rust (now released as part of the Abteilung502 range with ABT prefixes) were applied liberally to further enhance the rust effects. Bare metallic highlights were then added with an AK Interactive 4177 Graphite Detailing Pencil.

“THE VEHICLE’S UPPER HULL WAS TO RECEIVE MANY PE EMBELLISHMENTS” www.airfixmodelworld.com 43

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

“THE KIT FIGURES HELP TO ILLUSTRATE THE PERSHING’S LARGE SIZE”

be made to produce a satisfactory effect, with care taken to alter the shape of the part without melting the styrene. To complement this war-weary appearance, the side

skirts were omitted from the final model, as many crews appeared to discard these in the field. Painting and weathering took relatively little time, due to the

 Pre-shading with UA735 Deep Cockpit FS 36076 was applied to the lower extremities of the hull and turret, plus the stowage and engine decks to break up the monotone scheme.

overall olive green camouflage the vehicle wore throughout most of its time in service – the almost superfluous paint guide suggested using XF-58

Olive Green, which provided a satisfactory match. The model first received 87064 Grey Primer, then a pre-shade or shadow coat (utilising UA735 Deep Cockpit

 Tamiya’s XF-58 Olive Green was misted over the model, with subsequent lighter and darker hues applied via airbrush to provide a degree of colour modulation.

COLOURING THE CREW The kit figures help to illustrate the Pershing’s large size. They were moulded to Tamiya’s typically high standard, while Eduard’s PE set included details for the helmets and binocular straps.

 The crew were primed with Citadel Chaos Black spray paint (now known as Abaddon Black), then Space Wolves Grey (now Fenrisian Grey) was applied with an airbrush at a 45° angle to aid subsequent painting.

44

Airfix Model World

 The uniforms received LifeColor UA002 Green FS 34102 and UA015 Tan FS 30219 with darker and lighter highlights to produce subtle differences in colour. Finally, Vallejo’s 70.119 Face Painting Set was employed for the flesh tones.

 An application of ALC-310 Klear Kote was added before the decals. As this darkened the base coat significantly, the paint should probably have been left to dry for longer.

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

FS 36076) was sprayed in areas such as the turret undersides and the lower hull extremities. An overall layer of XF-58 Olive Green was misted over the model, ensuring the pre-shade was still visible, then lightened and darkened shades of the base coat were applied to provide some degree of colour modulation to the overall finish. After being left to dry for approximately two hours, Alclad’s ALC-310 Klear Kote was applied by airbrush. Unfortunately, this darkened the green base coat significantly, so it may have been better to allow the camouflage paint to cure properly overnight. However, after a day or two, the underlying tone seemed to regain some of its original hue. Decaling proceeded with a minimum of fuss and the markings featured cut sections, which enabled them to conform to the various fixtures and fittings on the turret sides without the need to trim each item.

MATERIALS AT A GLANCE Alclad (www.alclad2.com) ALC-310 Klear Kote AK Interactive (www.ak-interactive.com) 4177 Graphite Detailing Pencil AMMO-MIG (www.migjimenez.com) A.MIG-3512 Dark Brown Oilbrusher A.MIG-3515 Ochre Oilbrusher  Several AMMO-MIG Oilbrusher washes were applied to the vehicle to provide a suitably grubby appearance on the hull, turret and newly attached running gear.

Eduard (www.eduard.com) 35503 M26 Pershing

A subtle ‘dust’ coat was applied with XF-52 Flat Earth – this paint also provided a ‘key’ to which the mud and dust effects could adhere.

Flory Models (www.florymodels.org) Skinny sanding sticks LifeColor (www.airbrushes.com) CS10 Dust and Rust CS31 Debris and Rubble SPG06 Lichens & Moss UA002 Green FS 34102 UA015 Tan FS 30219

American blitz The Pershing was set aside overnight to allow the decals to dry, after which the model was airbrushed with Alclad’s ALC-312 Klear Kote Semi-Matt varnish to seal everything and provide a suitable base for weathering.

Citadel (www.games-workshop.com) Chaos/Abaddon Black Space Wolves/Fenrisian Grey

First, an overall wash, comprising a blend of AMMO-MIG’s A.MIG3512 Dark Brown and A.MIG-3515 Ochre Oilbrushers, was added, before subsequent pin washes

with these tones highlighted areas of interest, such as turret hatches and the engine cover. The next step was to apply a ‘dust’ coat using a heavily diluted

Abteilung502 (www.migproductions.com) ABTP025 Standard Rust ABTP028 Europe Dust ABTP058 Dark Earth ABTP414 Track Brown Mr. Hobby (www.albionhobbies.com) Mr. Dissolved Putty RB Model (www.rbmodel.com) 35B085 90mm M3 L/53 M26 Pershing & 90mm Anti-Tank Gun Tamiya (www.hobbyco.net) 74067 Bending Pliers (for photo-etched parts) Vallejo (www.creativemodels.co.uk) SC104 Country Railway Crossroads diorama base 70.119 Face Painting Set

www.airfixmodelworld.com 45

INTERMEDIATE BUILD M26 PERSHING

application of XF-52 Flat Earth to provide a base for the finishing mud effects. Last, various MIG Productions’ Pigments, such as PO28 Europe Dust and PO58 Dark Earth, were applied to recesses and blended with the same manufacturer’s thinners, before heavier concentrations

were added with 73.087 European Thick Mud. Chips and scrapes were created by carefully hand-painting UA735 Deep Cockpit FS 36076 with a fine brush, followed by an AK Interactive Graphite pencil on areas of high wear. At the end of the weathering process, selective pin washes of A.MIG-3505 Olive Green Oilbrusher were used to restore the base colour on the tank’s horizontal surfaces, such as stowage boxes and fenders where the crew would have climbed aboard the vehicle.

Respite With both elements of the project finished, the resulting model and diorama base depicts a Pershing in a suitably battle-weary state,

without overdoing the weathering process on what would have been a relatively new vehicle. The use of RB Model’s turned metal barrel and Eduard’s PE set certainly

helped to elevate the detail level on Tamiya’s 1/35 M26 Pershing, displaying the tank affectionately dubbed ‘America’s Tiger’ accurately.

THE FIELDS Finding a suitable display base for the Pershing was relatively straightforward, as Vallejo’s ready-made SC104 Country Road Cross with Railway diorama provided a perfect setting to illustrate the finished model’s features. The railway lines would show off the Pershing’s workable running gear, while the ruined buildings would provide an appropriate backdrop.

 The lightweight resin base received an overall coat of Citadel Chaos Black, sprayed to form a key for the subsequent painting and weathering.  An initial application of Modelmates’ 49051 Mud Brown translucent spray dye (available from online model shops) appeared rather dull and uninteresting, so…

 …selective highlights with XF-52 Flat Earth created variation in the earth tones, before various brown and green shades from AMMO-MIG’s Oilbrusher range were added.

46

Airfix Model World

 Finally, bricks were painted with various colours from LifeColor’s LC-CS31 Debris and Rubble set, while greenery was recreated via powder and fixers from its SPG06 Lichens & Moss package. Patches of 26.807 European Thick Mud provided a contrast with the sections of dry earth.

Aviation & Vehicle Model Kits

SEEING IS

BELIEVING

Take a look at our ABC Certificate. It shows our circulation has been independently verified to industry agreed standards. So our advertisers know they’re getting what they paid for.

ABC. See it. Believe it. Trust it.

www.abc.org.uk

2019_seeing is beliving house ad_airfix model world.indd 1

 

19/02/2019 15:45:06

 

COMPETITION

WI N SPEARHEAD BOOKS

A COPY OF THE SPEARHEAD BOOK, WRITTEN BY ADAM MAKOS, PLUS A SIGNED BOOKPLATE Five lucky readers can each win a softback copy of Adam Makos’s best-selling book Spearhead. It describes the World War Two experiences of an American Pershing tank gunner, Clarence Smoyer, and the famous clash with a German Panther on the streets of Cologne in March 1945, which was caught on film by a US Army cameraman.

HOW TO ENTER Visit www.airfixmodelworld.com and fill in the online competition entry form

OR

Send the completed form below (Photocopies accepted) to: AMW Spearhead Book Competition, Key Publishing Ltd, PO Box 100, Stamford, Lincolnshire, PE9 1XQ, UK

Note: Due to European GDPR legislation, the competition entry methods have changed slightly. Unfortunately e-mail entries are no longer accepted. Instead, readers need to go to the AMW website at www.airfixmodelworld.com and click on the ‘Competitions’ tab at the top of the page. Closing date Friday, May 29, 2020. Winners notified no later than Friday, June 5, 2020. No purchase necessary. There is no cash prize alternative and Key Publishing’s decision is final. Competitions are not open to employees of Key Publishing, their family members or anyone else professionally connected to the company.

Competition entry form

I am under 16 years old.

Airfix Model World April 2020 issue

Title .................................. First name ................................................................................................................ Surname........................................................................................................................ Address....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Postcode ............................................................ Country .......................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Email address..................................................................................................................................................... We would like to keep you informed by email about Key Publishing’s future offers and new product launches. Please tick this box to let us know that you are happy for us to do this. Don’t forget, you can change your contact preferences at any time by logging into your account (if applicable) or by using the unsubscribe links which you will find on all our emails.

Didn’t win or want to know more? Visit: www.atlantic-books.co.uk

049_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

14/02/2020 17:16:23

Clarence Smoyer’s Pershing advances into Cologne’s main square in this evocative artwork, Spearhead, by Gareth Hector, courtesy of ValorStudios.com

IN FOCUS SPEARHEAD

PROWLING PERSHING  The author and Clarence Smoyer posed with a copy of Spearhead in front of an M4 Sherman, which was driven through Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on Feb 19, 2019 for the book launch.

 The Pershing’s five-man crew, from L-R: Smokey Davis, Sgt Bob Earley, Woody McVey, Clarence Smoyer and John DeRiggi. (All period photos courtesy of National Archives)

M

odellers wanting to replicate Clarence Smoyer’s Pershing tank (serial number 30119836) either on its own or as part of a diorama will find these images, several of which are featured in Adam Makos’s book Spearhead, useful in any build projects.

52

Airfix Model World

IN FOCUS FEATURE NAME*****

 A camera still from footage of the clash between Clarence’s Pershing and a German Panther, commanded by Lt Wilhelm Bartelborth, showing the moment of the US tank’s first shot.  After the intial impact, the German crew emerge from their damaged Panther with smoke billowing from the turret hatches.  Bob Earley can be seen indicating from the commander’s hatch as the Pershing moves forward in company with US Infantry troops, passing a shot-up car (right).

 Three shots were fired in total, after which the Panther was left to burn – the impact points are clearly visible.  This view from the rear highlights the use of the exterior for stowage, with ration boxes on the turret and front mudguards and a jerrycan perched on the engine decking – note the tarped machine gun.  With Cologne Cathedral’s twin spires in the background, Clarence’s Pershing advances through the city’s battered streets – note how narrow these are, especially with rubble piled to the sides, giving tanks limited room to manoeuvre. www.airfixmodelworld.com 53

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I

Editor Stu Fone rediscovers the model desk with an aftermarket build of Airfix’s re-released 1/48 Spitfire Mk.Ia

r e d n e f e D Britain’s

have scored more air-to-air victories during the battle, but RJ Mitchell’s elegant design, with its clean lines, elliptical wing shape and, of course, the purr of its Rolls-Royce Merlin engine makes the Spitfire a firm favourite among

 Rather than begin with the cockpit, work started on the wings as these would require the most surgery – this allowed the kit option of open gun bays to be selected and accommodate the aftermarket elements. Inner ammunition bay doors were removed (right), while the top of the undercarriage bays were reduced to allow for PE liners.

54

Airfix Model World

aviation fans and modellers. When Airfix released its then newly tooled offering in 2014 (see AMW, March 2014) it received considerable praise, and its return is timed to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. This new boxing contains the same styrene parts as the original iteration, with six styrene runners (including one for clear parts). The components were generally well moulded, although several heavy seams needed tidying before assembly could begin. As the previous build was out of the box, it was decided to enhance the detail with a series of aftermarket sets. Several Eduard resin and/ or photo-etched metal products (www.eduard.com) were to hand: Spitfire Mk.I Exterior (48846), Wheels (648210) and Cockpit (648219) were employed, as were the outer wing guns from its Spitfire Mk.Vb Gun Bays (648198). While these added much to the

finished model, they did extend the build time considerably, with the Cockpit set being the most intricate item by far. Of note, both schemes in Airfix’s re-release featured Type B camouflage, which was a mirror of the Type A pattern – Pmask’s splendid PC48006 Spitfire Mk.I or V Camouflage Type B pre-cut masks (www.pmask.eu) were used to ease the painting process.

MODEL SPEC

M

ention the Battle of Britain to many people and one aircraft type will invariably pop into their minds: Supermarine’s legendary Spitfire. Hawker’s Hurricane might

Supermarine Spitfire Mk.Ia By:

Airfix

Stock Code:

A05126A

Scale:

1/48

Price:

£22.99

Available from: www.airfix.com

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I

 By comparison, changes to the fuselage were minimal: moulded detail was removed from the rear cockpit section so the resin sidewalls would sit correctly, plus any ejector pin marks were filled. It was intended to pose the cockpit access hatch open, so this part of the port-side fuselage was cut as per Airfix’s instructions.  Airfix made provision in the upper wing parts for the inner three gun bays to be opened, but the outer panel was more challenging to remove as no recessed area was supplied (bottom). Moulded undercarriage bay detail was trimmed (bottom) in readiness for Eduard’s replacement PE panels (top).

 Panels were removed by first deepening the engraved lines with a sharp scalpel blade, then a pin drill was used to open holes on the inside of the engraved lines - these were then clipped with a set of side cutters until the central portion was removed.

 Panel sides were tidied by first cutting and then scraping them with a fresh scalpel blade – Airfix’s relatively soft styrene made this an easier task – after which any final burrs were addressed with a small flat file.

“ pr e- cut masks wer e u s e d to ease t h e paint ing pro cess”  Eduard’s resin mainwheels (right) were a quantum leap over the kit items (left) in terms of detail and refinement. Helpfully these had the same keyed locating holes as Airfix’s parts, making them drop-in replacements .

www.airfixmodelworld.com 55

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I  The outer .303in (7.7mm) machine gun barrels protruded slightly from the wing leading edge on Spitfire Mk.Is. As these were omitted by Airfix, short sections of Albion Alloys’ 0.3mm diameter metal tube (www.albionhobbies.com) made suitable substitutes.

Six of the Spitfire’s eight .303in Brownings are supplied, so to provide a full complement, two were ‘borrowed’ from Eduard’s Spitfire Mk.V set, which also provided four replacement outer covers and gun bays. The ‘walls’ were folded from a single piece, with a detailed ‘floor’ attached via cyanoacrylate (CA) adhesive.

 Brass enhancements included grilles for the under-wing oil cooler and radiator, along with a replacement flap for the latter, which was far thinner (and thus more convincing) than the styrene item, although its location meant it was often caught during handling.

 With all the extras shoehorned into the outer wing, no chances were taken when attaching the upper halves, with plenty of masking tape and pegs employed to ensure a strong join all the way round.

 Airfix’s guns were employed for the inner bays, but as these were handed, they must be labelled to prevent confusion - Blu Tack held them in place while they received a metallic sheen using sanded pencil lead.

 Once fitted, the guns were joined by their respective ammunition canisters – these were also painted black with dry-brushed graphite. One advantage of the aftermarket units was they could be inserted after the wing halves were mated, so there was no tricky masking.

56

Airfix Model World

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I

WORKING WITH RESIN Most of the aftermarket products contained resin parts. In general, these can be treated the same as styrene parts, but the dust is a health hazard, so a few simple steps were taken to prevent any issues. First, disposable gloves were worn when handling resin parts, and a filter-style respirator was worn to prevent inhalation of any resin dust. The work bench was also wiped down regularly with a damp cloth to remove any possible contamination.

 Attention then shifted to the cockpit, with most of Eduard’s PE metal fret dedicated to this area. Purpose-designed cutters made quick work of removing the components from the surrounding tags, while also ensuring there were minimal burrs to clean up later.

 Once parts were removed from their casting blocks, they were sanded in a waterfilled ‘bath’ to minimise the chances of any dust. This was then poured away through a kitchen towel and the wet residue wrapped in a plastic bag for disposal.

 Eduard’s resin cockpit featured much finer detail than the kit equivalent, notably on the sidewalls, which had integrally cast cabling, equipment boxes and framework. Although this sub-assembly appeared very flimsy during the initial stages, once the side panels were attached it became a surprisingly robust structure.  The pilot’s seat comprised a mix of resin and PE, with small ‘pins’ attached to the seat sides and fed through holes in the armour plate. Aligning these with the rear two-piece frame (which couldn’t be glued until everything was positioned correctly) required at least three hands!

 Where possible, side cutters were used to separate resin components from their casting blocks, rather than a razor saw, as this minimised dust. Although shown out of water in this photo, most components were actually removed while immersed in the sanding tub.

“ i t was decided to en h a n c e t h e d etail w it h a s er i es o f a f t er ma rk et sets” www.airfixmodelworld.com 57

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I

“A i r f i x ’s 1/4 8 S p i t f i r e Mk .I i s a gr eat b u i l d st r a i gh t f ro m t h e b ox ”

 The interior received Humbrol 78 Cockpit Green, as this was a close match to BS 381C 283 Aircraft Grey Green. Once details were painted, they were treated with a Burnt Umber oil wash to highlight the cast features, then drybrushed with light grey and silver enamels.

 Previous articles have alluded to problems fitting the styrene cockpit, so the resin item was checked constantly against the airframe; despite this, there were still several gaps. It was decided to first glue the fuselage halves together, then present the sub-assembly from the underside and clamp the sides with crocodile clips until the CA had dried.

58

Airfix Model World

 Black pre-shading was applied to all panel lines, after which the underside was airbrushed with 90 Beige Green. Once dry, this was masked and the upper surfaces sprayed with Mr. Hobby C361 BS641 Dark Green, with care taken to allow some of the underlying tones to remain visible.

 Pmask’s pre-cut vinyl camouflage masks made setting the pattern quick and simple, with masking tape used to cover any minor gaps between the sections, after which diluted C369 Dark Earth completed the Type-B scheme. All masking was then removed and remedial touch-up work undertaken on any areas where the colours had seeped under the masks.

ADVANCED BUILD SPITFIRE Mk.I

 Airfix’s decals settled well into the moulded detail, with just minor coaxing from Microscale’s Micro Set and Sol (www.microscale.com). Those located over openings, such as the wing roundels, were allowed to dry before unwanted material was removed with a sharp knife.

 A further gloss varnish sealed the work to date, after which basic weathering was added. Heavier treatments were added to the underside as reference photos indicated there was considerable grime, while upper surfaces received just a panel line wash and exhaust stains.

 Gun bay hatches were positioned with the inner faces upwards as this was how they were depicted in reference photos – it also avoided the need for a tricky alignment of roundel decals to match the rest of the wing.

Loads of fun Airfix’s 1/48 Spitfire Mk.I is a great build straight from the box, and most of the extras outlined in this build were added to shown what can be done with

 The last task before adding small aerials and pitots was to attach the undercarriage – here Airfix’s half-butt join proved a minor hindrance (having been warned about this by several modellers in advance), but the legs appeared very fragile. A final coat of matt varnish completed the build.

the kit. It benefits from excellent engineering and fit, and with the multitude of aftermarket accessories already available, offers scope for modellers at all skill levels. Having only recently

returned to the building aspect of the hobby after an almost two-year hiatus, this was an absolute blast, and while I may have made several mistakes along the way, it’s given my

modelling mojo a huge boost… Now, where’s that Balkans Warrior APC conversion? www.airfixmodelworld.com 59

OUT AND ABOUT BOLTON SHOW

After A Winter’s ‘Rest’  The IPMS Lancashire stand was dominated by Darren Elliot’s alien dropship. On its own this would have been impressive enough, but being scratch-built with an old leaf-clearer at its core made it an obvious Best in Show.

W

hile modellers may refer to ‘seasons’ between the UK Nationals at Telford, Bolton’s 2020 event, held again in the Premier Suite at the Bolton Stadium, was a definitive new

start for the calendar year. Having recently watched a documentary on polar bears, I was struck by the similarities as club and special interest group members emerged from their winter ‘hibernation’. Youngsters

 Ever since manufacturers started adding interior detail, modellers have faced a dilemma as to how to best display everything. Here, Rhyl’s Adam Haven used a picture frame to exhibit his Rye Field Model 1/35 Tiger I, complete with a spent shell case in the collection chute.

 Academy’s 1/48 MiG-29 Fulcrum was completed by Russell Reason with Syhart decals to produce this strikingly liveried Slovakian airframe, as painted for the 2002 display season.

60

Airfix Model World

were eagerly seeking whatever was new, while food seemed to be the immediate priority for older members, followed by a careful browsing of the latest builds and products. And what a collection there was to see: straight-from-

the-box kits, dioramas, figures, conversions and even scratchbuilt projects were all on view. Indeed, a discarded leaf blower took centre stage (and Best in Show), being one of those “Have you seen that?” exhibits that was combined with sheet Perspex, used air fresheners and ‘greeblies’ from kits and the spares box to create an alien dropship described by builder Darren Elliot as a ‘droppy tank’, complete with working armature. Bolton’s approach has been to grow gradually and this has paid dividends. This was its largest event to date, yet suffered none of the usual problems associated with a show of this size. There was plenty of space for all and clever use of the mezzanine meant even more stands could be included. Overall attendance was higher than last year, which bodes well for the hobby in general, and plans are afoot to expand the show further for 2021. I, for one, can’t wait! Stu Fone

VIEW MORE ONLINE www.airfixmodelworld.com

 Brian Kennedy’s beautifully finished 1/24 ICM Model T 1914 Fire Truck with Crew stood out on the Washington Modeller’s display, with convincing wood tones and extra wire engine leads.  There might not have been a full moon, but that didn’t stop there being a werewolf’s presence on the Coventry and Warwicks’ table, courtesy of Ray Totten’s superbly painted bust.

 Kitty Hawk’s 1/35 Little Bird was built by East Midlands Modellers Mick Randall as an MH-6C 160th SOAR ‘Night Stalkers’ airframe, armed with 7.62mm and GECAL 50 miniguns.

SELL YOUR UNBUILT SECONDHAND PLASTIC KITS FOR CASH Trade in with Hatton’s for immediate payment on the day that we receive your goods!*

0151 305 1755 *Same day payments apply for collections received Monday to Friday before 2pm. Any collections received after 2pm will be paid on the next working day. Please note: In the unlikely event that we revise our offer price for your collection, you will be paid after responding to our offer. For full Terms and Conditions, visit hattons.co.uk/preownedterms hattons-preowned-A4-v09.indd 1 hattons-preowned-A4-v09.indd 1 2019PreOwnedPlasticKits.indd 1

01/06/2017 09:49 01/06/2017 09:49 13/11/2019 15:13:01

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CITROËN FOURGON TYPE H

French-speaking countries – they were rare in the UK. However, in recent years, they have become a relatively common sight at various events nationwide where mobile catering is required, dispensing freshly brewed coffee and baguettes.

Examining the parts

Chris Clay adds an Irish touch to Heller’s recently tooled 1/24 kit of the classic French Fourgon van irst released onto French roads in 1947, the Citroën H van, also known as the Type H, HY or Fourgon – was available until 1981, by which time more than 473,000

F

vehicles had been manufactured. Produced in both France and Belgium during that period, the firm also made a limited number of right-hand drive HY versions at the Slough Trading Estate

 Eliminating the various sink marks was time-consuming. Humbrol’s Grey Filler was used as it’s easy to sand and cures quickly.

62

Airfix Model World

assembly facility in England. Unfortunately, the exact numbers produced at this particular plant are not known. Once a very common sight on European roads – especially in

Heller is a French kit manufacturer of long standing and has concentrated on producing mainly trucks and automotive subjects in recent years, along with a generous helping of rereleased aviation and maritime items. Its 1/24 Citroën Fourgon was announced in 2015 as a newly tooled offering and has since been reissued as a gift set, with a brush, glue and paints. While the baseline parts will produce a more than acceptable result straight from the box, the provision of accessories from aftermarket specialist Motobitz (https://motobitz.uk/index. html) for a Guinness-liveried vehicle were hard to resist, and these added considerably to the finished model’s appearance. The kit comprises 138 components, ten of which are clear. Two versions of the Fourgon can be built: either a pre- or post-1969 configuration (recognisable by changes in the vehicle front and the rear wheelarch). Remaining parts are

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CITROËN FOURGON TYPE H

 Heller’s solution for the extensive cab glazing was to mould the front panels, doors and roof in clear styrene, although this material was rather brittle.

 The powertrain was relatively straightforward sub-assembly This was airbrushed initially, then certain sections were brush-painted to replicate a scruffy appearance.

 While the single-piece roof section was well moulded, it also suffered from sink marks, which had to be filled and sanded.

 Even small items such as the front bumper had moulding blemishes – care was needed when fixing these as the part was quite fragile.

supplied in metallic-grey-toned styrene on four runners, plus five solid vinyl tyres for the wheels (including the side-mounted spare) with basic tread detail.

rear door could be attached. There was one slight dilemma at this point: should the rear doors be left open, ajar or shut? An idea did spring to mind, which was to produce a few crates of Guinness so that the doors

Bringing it all together

which required several sink marks to be filled before they could be assembled. This aspect was challenging due to the corrugated surfaces on the exterior but, once everything was sanded, the sides and lower

could be left open but, after research, it transpired that this particular van probably never carried any. For many years, it has been parked outside an Irish bar in Costa Caleta in the Canary Islands as an advertisement,

MODEL SPEC

Assembly of this kit should not present a problem for the beginner. In fact, with certain reservations, this would be an ideal introduction to automotive modelling in general. Stage one began with the floorpan and the side panels, Citroën Fourgon Type H By:

Heller

Stock Code:

80768

Scale:

1/24

Price:

£21.99

Available from: www.heller.fr/en

www.airfixmodelworld.com 63

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CITROËN FOURGON TYPE H

 Motobitz’ resin tyres were sprayed initially with satin white, then masked for the later Tamiya XF-85. Inner rims required minor touch ups where the black seeped under the tape.

 The completed front suspension was a faithful replica and received just a coat of semimatt black before it was added to the chassis.

although sadly its exterior has been slowly deteriorating. With that in mind, the doors were glued shut.

required a hint of filler. Oddly, the upper door was a better match. Heller supply the entire front section of the vehicle in clear styrene, applicable to both pre- and post-1969 designs. The former was used here, with its characteristic split windscreen and extended chevrons. The upper engine air vents were carefully opened in the side and

Oh, what a lot of filling! As mentioned previously, sink marks were present on many parts, so filling/sanding these was a time-consuming process. All items were first rubbed with a

Scotch-Brite pad to highlight the blemishes, after which Humbrol’s Grey Filler (www.hunbrol.com) was applied. Once satisfied with the results, attention shifted to securing the doors, although the fit was less than perfect. Each side of the lower rear doors was packed with strips of thin plastic, as they were too narrow for the gap, and the left-hand side

radiator panels using a micro drill, new scalpel blades and careful filing, as the clear parts were quite brittle. The powerplant and suspension was next. Assembly was straightforward and minimal extra detailing was added, as little would be visible on the finished model. The type’s frontwheel drive configuration helped considerably when it came to final assembly, but care was needed when handling/fitting the driveshafts, as they were very thin and fragile. All suspension sub-units were airbrushed in satin black – Humbrol 85 Coal Black was ideal (and suggested in the instructions), but Tamiya’s X-18 Semi-Gloss Black (www. hobbyco.net) would also be suitable. Next, the engine block was brush-painted in matt dark green, followed by the rocker box, ancillaries and sump in satin black. Humbrol’s 270001 Aluminium Metalcoat was then applied to the transmission housing and the surface ‘teased’ with a brush to create a grimy surface.

Into the bodyshop

REFERENCE Citroën HY Online (www.citroenhyonline.co.uk/ hy-history.php)

64

Airfix Model World

From research, it appeared the interior and undersides of most Type Hs were painted in a metallic grey tone. Consequently, before the roof was attached, all windows were masked using low-tack tape and the model airbrushed

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CITROËN FOURGON TYPE H

 Heller provide just two seats for the cab, and these were weathered heavily to create a worn appearance. The only drawback was the ‘V-section’ supports, which were very fragile and broke easily.

with decanted and diluted Halford’s Plastic White Primer (www.halfords.com). Then the interior, underside and inner wheelarches were sprayed with similarly prepared Hycote Ford Polaris Grey Metallic (available from most DIY and car accessory stores). The model was allowed to air dry for one week, which gave ample time for the paint to cure. Roof and door components could then be added, after which these were masked accordingly. As no ‘official’ colour codes were available for the Guinness livery, the closest matches in the Hycote range were selected, with Mazda Chaste White applied to the upper half and BMW Jet Black on the lower surfaces. These paints were good value for money, despite the rather limited range. Most importantly, they were acrylic, which meant drying time was reasonably quick. However,

 Vents in the engine panels were opened, as on the real vehicle, after which a coat of white primer was employed to check for any surface blemishes.

AUTO EXTRAS While the kit decals and wheels were deemed acceptable, aftermarket products from specialist Motobitz added refinement. The decals (MBD24001) were printed beautifully, with gloss carrier film and perfect register, although they should be applied ‘wet’ to allow for fine tuning of their location on the model. The firm’s resin Citroën Fourgon Type H tyres come in a set of four (MBA24001) and were cast crisply, with well-defined tread. These were direct replacements for the kit’s vinyl items and, at just £8 per set, were well worth the outlay.

 The underside was minimally detailed and received the same metallic tone as the vehicle’s interior. Note the semi-circular rear wheelarches, which are correct for a pre1969 vehicle.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 65

INTERMEDIATE BUILD CITROËN FOURGON TYPE H

warning, though: the markings must be applied ‘wet’, otherwise they will not slide into position easily, tending to stick to the surface immediately otherwise. Consequently our driver’s door was less than perfect. For the brightwork around the radiator, Bare-Metal Foil’s self-adhesive Chrome (www. bare-metal.com) was utilised, as it was deemed the best method to replicate the chromed surfaces, being trimmed to fit via a sharp knife. The driver’s door was fixed in the open position to add

to be on the safe side (and from experience), a week’s drying time is recommended between each change of colour to avoid damaging the underlying tones.

further interest to the model, although it was a shame a suitable driver figure couldn’t be sourced for this project. With painting and decaling completed, a decision had to be made: should the model be finished in the vehicle’s current, slowly deteriorating condition or in its original form? After much thought, it was decided to opt for the latter, as this served to highlight the qualities of the kit and aftermarket products. Additionally, I hadn’t the heart to mar that smart paint scheme with any rust or grime, so the final task was to airbrush a gloss coat of automotive 1K lacquer, which produced a suitable lustre and also provided a protective layer for the decals and brightwork.

Final decoration The decals and wheels/tyres were supplied by Motorbitz and these were a vast improvement on the original parts. A word of

VA N OPTIONS Heller supplies six schemes in this Fourgon release. One depicts a pre-1969 machine with rounded rear wheelarches, while the remainder are for post-1969 HY variants (squared arches and small company logo on the radiator). Colour schemes vary, from overall metallic grey or gloss yellow machines to attractive cream/wine red liveries; all shades are matched to Humbrol paint codes (www.humbrol.com). The choices are: • 61160 TR 61, pre-1964 • 61160 TR 61, 1964-69 • 61700 LN 61, Biscuiterie de l’Abbaye, possible early 1970s • 61700 LN 61, Biscuiterie de l’Abbaye, possible late 1970s • 61160 TR 61, Heller, 1970s • CA 539 YT, Restaurant Le Marché

 Heller’s completed powertrain, front suspension and cooling system was built ‘out of the box’ as little would be visible on the completed model.

 Motobitz’s tyres were added to the kit wheels, which were finished in the same tone as the upper bodyshell and received subtle weathering to accentuate the moulded detail.

66

Airfix Model World

The Fokker Fours

Fokker F-32, F.XXXVI, F.XXII and other four-engined projects

In September 1929, Anthony Fokker presented his first four-engined aircraft in the United States of America: the Fokker F-32. It could carry up to 32 passengers and was at its time the largest and most luxurious aircraft in the world. Then, unexpectedly, came the Black Thursday at the New York stock exchange and the world changed… Ten aircraft were either completed or in various stages of assembly, before the production was stopped.

Rob J. M. Mulder

The Fokker Fours Rob J. M. Mulder

The idea of a four-engined aircraft caught on with KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Albert Plesman, its managing director, committed to buy aircraft for the Amsterdam-Batavia (now Djakarta, Indonesia) service. The type was to be called the Fokker F. XXXVI and was designed to accommodate 32 passengers and a crew of four. A scaled-down version, designated F.XXII, was intended for European services carrying 22 passengers. Unfortunately for Fokker, the F.XXXVI and F.XXII were no immediate success due to the introduction of the far more modern and faster Douglas DC-2. Besides KLM, the only other customer was the Swedish airline AB Aerotransport who purchased a single aircraft.

Rob J.M. Mulder

The Fokker Fours

KLM used their F.XXXVI and F.XXIIs on the European routes, while AB Aerotransport only used its F.XXII on the Malmö-CopenhagenAmsterdam service. KLM and AB Aerotransport lost each an aircraft in accidents, while the remaining were sold to the UK and operated by Scottish Aviation and the RAF. In this book we follow the life of the F-32, F.XXXVI and F.XXII aircraft and look at other Fokker four-engined projects. This book is illustrated with many photographs, tables, and colour profiles by Juanita Franzi.

In this new book we follow the life of the four-engined Fokker F-32, F.XXXVI and F.XXII aircraft, which flew with Western Air Express, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, AB Aerotransport (Sweden), Scottish Aviation, RAF and Scottish Airlines. It also takes a look at other Fokker four-engined projects. The book counts 384 pages, and is illustrated with 569 photographs, 30 pages in colour, including 10 colour profiles by Juanita Franzi.

The Fokker Fours

FOKKER F-32, F.XXXVI, F.XXII AND FOUR-ENGINED PROJECTS

ISBN 978-82-93450-05-4

www.europeanairlines.no

Price: £ 35 + p.p.

Order your copy now at

WWW.EUROPEANAIRLINES.NO European Airlines Rob Mulder

Airfix December 2019 90x130mm.indd 1

065_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

17.10.2019 07:54:33

14/02/2020 12:47:43

BASIC BUILD ROCKWELL B-1B LANCER

BAD TO The

B-ONE! Academy’s all-new 1/144 B-1B Lancer does not disappoint, as Massimo Santarossa discovers

R

US President Richard Nixon, and Rockwell International was awarded a contract for two testing and five prototype airframes, later reduced to one test bed and three aircraft. Costs began to mount and, with the introduction of the air-launched cruise missile, the programme came under threat and was eventually cancelled by the Carter administration in 1977. However, in 1981, Ronald Reagan resurrected the B-1 project. The 40th American president argued the stealth bomber, then under study,

would be a long time in coming and the design of the Lancer would provide the US Air Force with a flexible response option encompassing both nuclear and conventional weapons. The first B-1B finally entered service in 1986 and was placed on nuclear alert status. With the fall of the Soviet Union and the rise of regional threats, the bomber was given a refit in order to make it a potent conventional bomber. Since then, it has served in Iraq, over Kosovo and in Afghanistan, providing strategic and tactical

MODEL SPEC

ockwell’s B-1 Lancer had its origins back in the 1960s; at that time the concept of a high-altitude, high-speed bomber was negated by the introduction of surface-to-air missiles, as demonstrated by the shooting down of US pilot Francis Gary Powers’ Lockheed U-2 spy plane. What was desired was a low-level penetrator aircraft with the speed of the B-58 Hustler and the payload of the B-52 Stratofortress. The B-1 programme was officially begun under the then

USAF B-1B 34th BS ‘Thunderbirds’ By:

Academy

Stock Code:

12620

Scale:

1/144

Price:

£26.99

Available from: www.pocketbond.co.uk

 Academy’s new-tool B-1B featured finely engraved panel lines and not even a hint of flash. A choice of weapons was included for installation into the well-appointed bomb bays.

68

Airfix Model World

support for ground troops with both free-fall and precisionguided bombs.

Small-scale wonder Academy’s new-tool 1/144 B-1B Lancer came with all the features one would hope to see from a 21st-century model; slide moulding technology had resulted

BASIC BUILD ROCKWELL B-1B LANCER

a few errors – including the main wing parts being reversed.

Mach 1.25 start

in finely engraved panel lines, thin trailing edges and no flash. Similarly, the hollow profile of the one-piece tail section was a marvel to behold on its own. Nine runners were supplied in three colours – perfect for a beginner to build without painting – plus a clear frame contained the cockpit windows. Markings options were supplied for three overall grey airframes and, as they were produced by Cartograf, the quality was excellent. The 11-stage build sequence was outlined in two instruction manuals, with the second one including colour profiles for the three different airframes; 86-0129 Black Widow, 34th BS; 86-0124 9th BS and 86-0123 9th BS. Seven paint manufacturers’ products were listed, ensuring it was easy to choose one’s favourite brand of paint. However, careful study of the instructions was still required, as there were

The kit wasn’t marketed as a snaptogether offering, but the fit was so good it could have been, and not a hint of putty was required. The build began traditionally with the cockpit and Weber ejection seats, to which straps made from masking tape were added and then painted red and grey. Geared hinges slotted into the lovely onepiece wings and were then pressfitted onto their pivot points (wing B1 on the left and B2 on the right). The two-part fuselage was closed, then the exquisite slide-moulded tail section was fitted – thus the airframe was completed quickly. A choice of wing ‘gloves’ was provided for either swept or unswept wings (one of several build options included). The former were installed to allow for showing the model in either configuration, although the result was a larger than normal gap with the wings in the forward position. Such is the nature of comprise. Painting began with the weapons and landing gear bays, which were to be open for this build. These areas, along with their associated doors and gear legs, were treated with Model Master 1768 Flat White FS37875 ((www. testors.com), while the cables testors.com located in bomb bay doors received Testors’ 1184TT Zinc Chromate, not black as instructed. Following a gloss coat of Alclad ALC-600 Aqua Gloss Clear

 The use of slide-moulding technology allowed Academy to provide some hitherto impossibly exquisite parts – including the hollow one-piece tail section.

 The wing sweep could be depicted accurately via a geared hinge system. Note the labelling to denote the correct wing placement, with B1 on the port side and B2 on the starboard.

Despite its small size and basic detail, the cockpit was visible through the clear flight deck windows. The moulded relief was enhanced with the use of decals and bright hues.

“The kit wasn’t marketed as a snap-together offering, but the fit was so good it could have been” www.airfixmodelworld.com 69

BASIC BUILD ROCKWELL B-1B LANCER

 Landing gear and weapon bay detail was rendered very well and was accentuated with a pin wash of Paynes Grey oil paint.  The inclusion of pre-cut canopy paint masks was a nice touch from Academy. Note the canards and blade antennas have been installed; their mountings were secure enough for handling.

(www.alclad2.com), ), the fine detail was highlighted with a pin wash of Paynes Grey oils.

One shade of grey Painting the B-1 could not have been simpler as the aircraft was a single colour – grey. After covering the various underside bays with their closed-door option

parts, the model was sprayed 1723 Gunship Gray FS36118. The wing root and tail leading edges were painted 1721 Medium Gray FS35237 darkened with the former shade, while the nose cone was received a coat of Tamiya’s XF-63 German Grey (www.hobbyco.net) instead of the recommended black.

 Painting the B-1 could not have been easier due to the single base tone; the bomb and undercarriage bays were covered with the optional closed doors, then the model was sprayed 172305 Gunship Gray FS36118.

70

Airfix Model World

“Geared hinges slotted into the lovely one-piece wings and were then press-fitted onto their pivot points”

BASIC BUILD ROCKWELL B-1B LANCER

Everything was given a day to cure fully, then the model was buffed lightly with a cotton cloth and treated to two clear gloss coats. If there was one area that could be considered weak it was the kit’s afterburner nozzles. As supplied, they appeared to represent the non-turkey feather version of the exhaust, but the detail was rather basic due to the limitations imposed by the minuteness of 1/144 scale. The painting stage was hence used to give them the best chance of making an impression, beginning with an initial base coat of 1747 Gloss Black FS17038. Then ALC113 Jet Exhaust was applied, followed by a light misting of ALC-112 Steel and ALC-104 Pale Burnt Metal. Considering the small scale of the model, there was a fair number of markings to be applied; Black Widow from 34th Bomb Squadron ‘Thunderbirds’ was chosen as the subject to be portrayed and decaling began in earnest. The quality of Cartograf’s markings made applying them a breeze, although specific items required extra attention. The wing walkway stencils were provided as a large decal for each side – the centre of each was a section of clear carrier film that covered a significant portion of the wing. A gloss-finished surface and a healthy amount of decal solution were necessary to avoid any chance of silvering, plus any air trapped underneath the marking was brushed away from the surface. These techniques were mostly effective, but the application wasn’t perfect as the decals needed slicing along any panel lines – more solution was applied to ensure the markings settled and any underlying air bubbles were released.

 Variation in the monotone scheme was added by painting various panels with darkened 1721 Medium Gray FS35237 and the nose XF-63 German Grey. The model was buffed with a cotton cloth to ease the rough texture of the matt finish before gloss coats were applied. Cartograf’s decals performed well, but the wing walkway markings were predominantly clear carrier film. This required cutting along the panel lines to prevent silvering.

 With the decals sealed under another layer of gloss, the model was coated liberally with Flory Models’ Dark Dirt wash. This would constitute the vast majority of the weathering. After a short drying time, excess wash was cleaned with a damp cloth plus a cotton swab used in hard to reach areas. The model was wiped in the direction of air flow, from the nose to the tail.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 71

BASIC BUILD ROCKWELL B-1B LANCER

Tape disks were punched to mask the wheels, then these were painted XF-69 NATO Black. This is actually a very dark grey shade and hence a realistic in-scale colour for rubber tyres.

case of the bomb and gear bays in order to ease construction, though. Once the bombs were secured, the bay doors did ‘clack’ into position, but the fit was so tight that a few tense moments were experienced – thoughts of damaged plastic ran through my head. In the end, the fitting process worked out.

Trust your instincts

Easy on the grime The B-1s currently in service are maintained to a high standard and photos of any severely weathered aircraft were difficult to come by. That said, it was deemed the model could not remain in a monotone grey finish, so after another layer of gloss the model was given an overall coat of Flory Models’ Dark Dirt wash (www. florymodels.org) to highlight the panel lines. Once dry, the excess was cleaned with a damp cloth and the model then sealed with 2015 Flat Clear Lacquer. The weapons load for this model could literally be described as conventional as no atomic weapons were included. There were enough ordnance choices included that a varying weapons load could be fitted,

including a selection of free-fall unguided or Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) bombs with their associated Sniper Advanced Targeting Pod. An auxiliary fuel tank completed the payload, and this plus a full suite of JDAMs was utilised for this build. Final assembly was quick due to the fit of several parts being so secure that no glue was required – just a firm press-fit sufficed. The assembly sequence outlined in the instructions had to be followed in the

Normally, nose weight would be called for when building aircraft with tricycle landing gear, so when none was mentioned it made for some serious head-scratching. Trusting Academy’s

engineering, construction continued only to find the completed model tended to rock rearwards and did in fact sit on its tail when the wings were swept back. Clearly, some ballast was necessary; ideally the nose cone and/or cockpit area

Installation of the bomb bay components was so positive that no glue was required, just a simple press-fit. The kit came with two payload choices with a full set of JDAMs being used here.

The weapon bay engineering was unique in that the walls were moulded with the doors. This made painting and assembly easier as the parts simply snapped into position.

72

Airfix Model World

would have been chosen, but with the fuselage closed this was impossible. Luckily, the auxiliary fuel tank could be freed, so it was filled with Deluxe Materials’ Liquid Gravity (www.deluxematerials. co.uk), which was secured with thin cyanoacrylate (CA) glue. Once

 No mention of nose weight was made in the instructions and as a result the model tipped back on its tail when the wings were swept rearwards.

 As access to the nose and forward fuselage was no longer an option, the auxiliary fuel tank was removed and its hollow inner filled – the ballast was secured with thin CA.

this section was finally secured in the forward bomb bay, the model sat correctly on all three wheels.

Home run Academy’s 1/144 B-1B Lancer was an incredibly easy model to build, which made for some very enjoyable hours spent at the workbench. If the model was completed with the bomb bay doors closed, thus avoiding the time taken to paint and detail the openings, the kit could be completed in under a week and possibly even a weekend. Although this simplicity would certainly be ideal for a novice modeller, the ease and speed of construction should not be mistaken as suited for just beginners. It’s a well-engineered, state-of-the-art model, and fans of the type will thoroughly enjoy it – Academy is to be commended for producing such a high-quality kit of the B-1 Lancer, which can’t be recommended enough.

 The afterburner exhausts as supplied were basic, unsurprising given the small scale. They were enlivened by various metallic shades applied over a base coat of gloss black.

 Wing gloves were provided to accommodate swept/unswept display options. The former were used as this enabled the parts to be posable – although this left a significant gap if swept forward.

ON THE SHELF BOOKS

AVIATION ODDITIES

American Aircraft Development of the Second World War By: Bill Norton ISBN: 978-1-78155-725-9 Price: £45 Format: 252 x 180mm Web: www.fonthillmedia.com The final volume in the author’s five-book analysis of American aircraft development during World War Two examines the research

ANTI-TANK HERO

Tank Destroyer Achilles and M10 By: Dennis Oliver ISBN: 978-1-526741-90-5 Price: £14.99 Format: A4 Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk This Pen & Sword book is aimed at modellers, covering the British Army’s use of the M10 tank destroyer, subsequently nicknamed ‘Achilles’. It contains

74

Airfix Model World

446 pages and experimental variants of wellknown types, plus varied attempts at modification as designers sought to maximise performance. In doing so, it provides a whole new prism through which to view aviation advances during just six years, with the US National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA – forerunner of NASA) influencing most projects. The rich narrative is augmented by a splendid collection of period photos covering most, if not all of the projects – whether that was investigating stall characteristics or testing early jet engines, offering modellers huge scope for unusual builds. Subjects include use of rockets to boost speed, issues associated with approaching the speed of sound, different styles of undercarriage, carrier operations (by aircraft not designed originally for that purpose) and ‘special missions’. This is a fascinating study and, while aimed more at historians and aviation enthusiasts, still has much to offer modellers. SF 64 pages a wealth of information, starting with the background to anti-tank regiments in the early stages of World War Two, their armaments and various stopgaps used to fight the increasingly capable German machinery. The American 3in Gun Motor Carriage M10 – itself a marriage of an anti-tank gun with an M4 Sherman chassis – was up-gunned with British 17-pounder high-velocity weapons for this purpose. Information on units, organisational structures, tactical and echelon markings are supplied, with period photos depicting the vehicles in action. These are also referenced in the colour profiles, with captions highlighting camouflage and vehicle-specific fittings – intricacies of the turret and tracks are demonstrated via close-up images. Additionally, there are sections devoted to modelling British M10s, with 1/35 and 1/48 builds and brief reviews of other offerings in a range of scales. JF

DAYLIGHT EVALUATION

94 pages

Schweinfurt-Regensburg 1943 By: Marshall L Michel III ISBN: 978-1-4728-3867-4 Price: £14.99 Format: 249 x 185mm Web: www.ospreypublishing.com America’s entry into World War Two was marked by initial attempts to bomb Germany ‘round the clock’, with British forces’ overnight attacks and USAAF daylight raids. This analysis of Eighth Air Force operations during 1943 provides readers with valuable insight into these approaches, with a clear summary of the differing doctrines that led to this split strategy and the resulting equipment differences, plus detailed tactical evaluation. Sections examine the capabilities of American and German forces in terms of equipment, personnel and methodology – with a superb selection of digital imagery and period photos. Similarly, full-colour diagrams enliven the analysis, while a trio of double spreads

contains combat scene artwork – Focke-Wulf Fw 190A, P-47D Thunderbolt and Messerschmitt Bf 110G airframes all feature. The book closes with a short conclusion and summarises the aftermath of these operations in October 1943. Overall, the text is well written plus the organisation ensures this is an accessible and enjoyable evaluation of American daylight raids. JF

‘LEGACY BUG’ PHOTO STUDY

100 pages

F/A-18 A/B/C/D Hornet By: I Akiyama, K Kawano, K Kikuchi JAN: 4-573322-750343 Price: US$21.80 Format: A4 Web: www.modelart.jp Model Art’s second Aircraft Photobook is dedicated to the F/A-18A/B/C/D and D (R) Hornet, which are also known as ‘Legacy Hornets’. It’s a magnificent collection of stunning high-quality photos, featuring US Navy and Marine Corps airframes, alongside examples from Spain, Malaysia, Kuwait, Finland, Canada, Australia and Switzerland. Captions are predominantly Japanese, but there are English translations. Best of all, there’s a mix of ‘line’, display, anniversary, Carrier Air Group and squadron commander liveries, which broadens its appeal even more, adding colour to the otherwise drab two-tone grey aircraft. Helpful line diagrams enable modellers to identify the differences between A/C and B/D airframes, respectively, although various upgrades do blur this distinction.

Ddrawings are supported by 11 fullcolour profiles, all depicting colourful USN/USMC airframes. The final 38 pages are set aside for a series of walk-round shots that cover all aspects of the Hornet airframes, including changes in equipment fit, countermeasures dispensers, antennas, camera housings – on the reconnaissance F/A-18D(R) – and gun vents. The type’s varied weapons load is also addressed, making this a superb reference for modellers. SF

ON THE SHELF BOOKS

ARTISTIC MAGIC

The Art of Roy Cross By: Roy Cross ISBN: 978-1-78500-641-8 Price: £45 Format: 280 x 305mm Web: www.crowood.com Mention the name Roy Cross to many modellers and there’s a mistyeyed reminiscence of his classic box-top artwork for Airfix. Indeed, his work for Airfix is enjoying a revival at the moment due to the Vintage Classics series, which is bringing his talents to a whole new generation. However, this was just one facet of his seven decades as

128 pages an illustrator and artist. This largeformat self-authored compilation takes the reader on an amazing journey, from line drawings in the Air Reserve and Air Training Corps Gazettes (and the latter’s successor, Air Pictorial) to comics such as Eagle and Swift, a decade with Airfix and finally his career as a fine maritime painter. The story is presented in chronological order, although employments and assignments did overlap on occasion, and the overriding impression is of someone thoroughly enjoying their work, whether that was illustrating aircraft, tanks, cars, trains or ships. There are excerpts from his workbooks, highlighting a meticulous approach to each subject, notably for naval vessels, with photocopied diagrams next to his drawings to ensure accuracy when depicting a specific element, such as a mast or sail attachments. Whether it’s Roy’s work for kit boxes or his approach to painting, this is a wonderful and highly informative collection of his work that one no enthusiast should be without. SF

MARITIME CLEAR MOON

The Japanese Destroyer Suzutsuki 1945 By: Mariusz Motyka ISBN: 978-83-66148-15-4 Price: £28.95 Format: A4 Web: www.casematepublishing.com Suzutsuki (Clear Moon) was one of just five Akizuki-class destroyers (out of 13 vessels) to survive World War Two and is now the subject of Kagero’s Super Drawings in 3D series. There’s the usual history and background to the ship, contrasting its predominantly anti-

DIVE-BOMBING BIOGRAPHY

374 pages

Wade McClusky and the Battle of Midway By: David Rigby ISBN: 978-1-4738-3473-7 Price: £25 Format: 240 x160mm Web: www.ospreypublishing.com In contrast to most Battle of Midway writings, David Rigby’s book aims to draw further attention to Wade McClusky, the US Navy pilot who led the dive-bomber attacks against the Imperial Japanese Navy’s aircraft carriers Akagi and Kaga. Overall it achieves this objective, collecting evidence to argue that McClusky’s decision-making and leadership were anything but ordinary and dispelling the notion that his lack of dive-bombing experience meant he ‘bungled’ the attacks, contrary to the views of other historians. However, the author appears preoccupied with these points as they are repeated without any sense of development, as if this was enough to get them across. Indeed, the text inadequately explores the evidence and hence fails to provide a cogent case.

Furthermore, counterarguments are overlooked, severely undermining the debate. This means the text feels unbalanced and subjective rather than objective, so you are left to read between the lines and form your own judgement of McClusky. As a result, the book’s appeal is limited to readers with an interest and knowledge of the Battle of Midway and who may appreciate a different perspective. JF

74 pages

aircraft role with earlier classes (designed for surface actions). Its brief operational service is then described, before attention shifts to the author’s signature 3D digital images of the Suzutsuki, which provide a wealth of reference material for modellers. All aspects of this impressive vessel are examined in depth, with superb views of its weaponry, deck fittings and rigging lines. Specific attention is given to the 9-metre motorboats and their davits on either side of the main funnel. There are even helpful captions explaining how the railings were folded when torpedoes were fired from the single quad-launcher amidships, plus views of access hatches under anti-aircraft platforms – a necessity as more weaponry was needed to counter the threat from US Navy fighters and bombers. The fold-out 1/200 drawings provide even more information, from the Type 96 anti-aircraft gun firing arcs to the depth charge throwers and stern rails. Modellers with 1/700 or 1/350 scale offerings will find the plans and associated detail in the book. SF

COMPREHENSIVE COMPENDIUM

240 pages

The Focke-Wulf Fw 190 – RadialEngine Versions By: Richard A Franks ISBN: 978-1-912932-08-5 Price: £20.95 Format: A4 Web: www.valiant-wings.co.uk Alongside its revised guide to long-nose versions (see Reviews, Feb 2020), Valiant Wings has released this updated and expanded reference for radial-engined FockeWulf Fw 190s, including a section devoted to modelling the type. It’s another excellent publication, with well-written text organised in a clear layout, starting with development and prototypes before examining the production versions, with clear side profiles and period photos of each airframe variation. Similar imagery is used for the camouflage and markings section, including historical colour photos, although the author notes the difficulty in establishing exact tones. Nonetheless, colour profiles plus insignia and stencil placement guides means this section is a superb resource. Modellers will be certain to make an informed kit purchase thanks to detailed reviews,

which balances inaccuracies against price point and ease of building. In addition, Airfix, Hasegawa, Revell, Eduard and Tamiya products are all subject to model builds. Those with a taste for detail are well served by three-quarter images showing the exact differences between airframe type, close-up photos and diagrams depicting systems and features, plus two fold-out sheets containing 1/48 scale plans. The depth and breadth of information makes this an indispensable Fw 190 resource. JF

www.airfixmodelworld.com 75

ON THE SHELF BOOKS

SCHNELLBOMBER SIDE-VIEWS

Junkers Ju 88A By: Maciej Noszczak ISBN: 978-83-65958-03-7 Price: £19.00 Format: 330 x 217mm Web: www.mmpbooks.biz Junkers’ twin-engined Ju 88 is the subject of this MMP publication. All bar one of its pages contain profiles depicting machines from 1940-44, with attention given to -A and -D variants (the latter are photo-reconnaissance airframes).

Additionally, the type was operated as a schnellbomber (fast bomber), as per its original design, and was developed for ground-attack, antishipping and torpedo-carrying roles – these sub-types are illustrated with a list of designations on the introductory page. The high-quality digital images show a range of camouflage from different theatres and operators (including Luftwaffe, Finnish, Hungarian and Romanian Air Force machines), plus rivets and panel lines, shadows and token weathering, particularly around the exhausts. The book is limited to just port/starboard views of the various airframes, with additional forward fuselage sections to show unit markings or a reproduction of the motif alongside the aircraft. There can be occasional difficulties in distinguishing between variants at a glance, notably the cannon-equipped ground-attack machines. As such, the book is an ideal starter for selecting possible Ju 88 schemes, but further research would be required to reproduce these in model form as there are no views of the upper or lower surfaces. JF

‘MANNED MISSILE’ STORY

Lockheed F-104 Starfighter – A History By: Martin W Bowman ISBN: 978-1-47386-326-2 Price: £30 Format: 179 x 254mm Web: www.pen-and-sword.co.uk At a time when aircraft designers sought the maximum possible performance, Lockheed went all-out to produce a supersonic day fighter: the F-104 Starfighter. Its troubled development and operational history are explored

76

Airfix Model World

43 pages

320 pages

in depth by the author, with numerous anecdotes from test, front-line and NASA pilots, all of which adds a richness to the narrative. Opening sections delve into how the Starfighter came to be, highlighting the issues faced by pilots as they sought to determine the type’s performance envelope – several mix sheer terror with considerable humour – and this book also serves as a testament to their bravery and skills. The F-104s reputation is then examined, with its high accident rate leading to nicknames such as ‘Widowmaker’ in the Luftwaffe, before the various operators are detailed, with a close look at its service in the Canadian and Pakistani armed forces. The final chapter is devoted to how NASA used the type, as its performance and handling were deemed ideal for pilots training to fly rockets. The informative and thoroughly well-written text is backed throughout by an excellent collection of period photos to add yet more context, while providing modellers with plenty of inspiration for build projects. SF

CAMERAMAN’S CHRONICLE

60 pages

War Photographer 1.0 By: Tom Cockle ISBN: 978-615-5583-19-3 Price: £13.99 Format: 297 x 210 Web: www.panzerwrecks.com This landscape-format offering is the first in a series showing rare and previously unseen wartime photographs. Unfortunately, the cameraman is unknown in this instance, but he was assigned to Sturmgeschütz (StuG)-Abteilung 189. It covers his time in the Reich Labour Service (Reichsarbeitsdienst RAD), Sturmartillerie training, combat in Russia and officer school. The slim volume is packed with useful photos and information for modellers, such as an experimental Beobachtungswagen (reconnaissance vehicle), StuG unit parades and convoys. The photographer appears to have been quite accomplished – all shots exhibit good exposure and depth of field, and quite an eye for a scene, notably when vehicles were damaged, broken

SEABORNE FOX HUNT

down or crashed. Self-propelled guns feature heavily, as might be expected, but there are also such rare gems as armoured ammunition carriers. Modellers will appreciate the comprehensive captions accompanying each photo, highlighting vehicle equipment and camouflage, while diorama fans will find inspiration in the ‘domestic’, post-combat and maintenance scenes. Arguably the most notable elements are those illustrating attempts to improve the armour protection by adding lengths of spare track links to the hull, but the selection is broad enough to effectively offer something for most German World War Two armour aficionados. SF 28 pages

The British Hunt-Class Escort Destroyer HMS Badsworth By: Waldemar Góralski ISBN: 978-83-66148-19-2 Price: £20.50 Format: A4 Web: www.casematepublishers.co.uk Kagero’s 69th TopDrawings publication will be extremely useful for modellers with IBG’s 1/700 HMS Badsworth kit, as it offers a large selection of line drawings depicting this Hunt II-class ship, plus its history in English and Polish. Each drawing focuses on a specific section, which allows detailed three-quarter views of its bow, midships and stern from fore, aft, port and starboard perspectives, with the upper superstructure treated the same way. In-depth illustrations of equipment fittings include views of the capstan and anchor arrangements, compass/ pelorus fitting, Type 285 radar and 4.5m Rangefinder equipment, various entry hatches and auxiliary craft, plus a selection of standard crates/ammunition containers. The weapon imagery in the book is limited to just K-Gun depth charge

throwers, but one of two additional sheets contains superb insets of the munitions with smoke generators, plus the main armament of Mk XVI 4in (10.1cm) gun turrets, ‘pom-pom’ and Oerlikon anti-aircraft guns. The reverse side of this pull-out contains 1/200 scale plans of the vessel, while the other B2-size sheet contains 1/144 scale equivalents, plus gorgeous full-colour plans of HMS Badsworth in three-tone dazzletype camouflage. JF

Aviation & Military Book Centre

Military & Civil Aviation – Military Weapons & Equipment – Naval Vessels

SPECIALIST IN AVIATION, MILITARY & MODELLING BOOKS WITH THOUSANDS OF TITLES IN STOCK

16105AVI BOAC and the Golden Age of Flying: Britain’s Iconic Global Airline M Turner The relatively short period that BOAC existed, 1940 to 1974, coincided with what is sometimes known as the Golden Age of Flying. HB 144pp £35.00

02304AVI Pan American Clippers: The Golden Age of Flying Boats - Revised 2nd Edition J Trautman The photographs and artwork will enable readers to grasp the magnificence of the transoceanic flying boats. SB 280pp £25.00

61694AVI Modellers Datafile 35 The Grumman F-14 Tomcat A Evans An in-depth detailed and photographic look at the The Gruman F-14 Tomcat. Including modelling, painting. Colour photos, colour profiles and line drawings. SB 192pp £24.99

20245AVI Super Mystere and Sa’ar: Israeli AF Mini Photo Album 4 R Weiss Detailed photo album with profile drawings plus much more. SB 88pp £32.99

29559AVI Duel 100: Me 262 vs P-51 Mustang: Europe 1944-45 R Forsyth Arguably two of the finest fighters built during the course of WWII, the Me 262 and P-51 heralded new dawns in aircraft performance. SB 80pp £13.99

09722AVI WWP B021 Apache Part Two - AH64D/E and IDF Saraf Variants I Lekkas Contains a plethora of colour photos. Content covers history, walkaround, interior-detail, engine detail and chassis detail. SB 192pp £37.99

AID010 Aircraft in detail 010 Dassault Mirage F1 D Hawkins A complete portrait of this iconic airoplane and it’s variants containing photos of all the features including action shots, cockpit views, fuselage and weapons. 300 photos. SB 82pp £20.99

80255AVI Le III. / Zerstorergeschwader 26 1939-44 J Roba FRENCH TEXT. It may be surprising to detach a group from its squadron, however, the III./ZG 26, which started WWII with the Bf 109, had a very independent career. SB 172pp £35.00

80248AVI Les C-47 sous nos Cocardes G Millas FRENCH TEXT. Withdrawn from service, many Dakota are sold to other countries or airlines, some will be equipped with turbines. The life of each aircraft that served in the French armies is traced. Photos, Illustrations and Profiles. HB 448pp £59.00

56803AVI The Bell P39 Airacobra and P63 Kingcobra Fighters Soviet Service During World War II D Komissarov Under the Lend-Lease agreement with the US, the Soviet Union received many aircraft and the P-39 Aircobra took a special place among them. HB 240pp £47.99

10697AVI Heroes of Coastal Command: The RAF’s Maritime War A Bird Examines the maritime war 1939-45, interweaving accounts of events of the period with personal stories of individuals caught up in them. Through interviews, letters, diaries and reports. HB 296pp £25.00

57662AVI Enemy at the Gates: Panic Fighters of the Second World War J Miranda France and Great Britain took up the production of USA airplanes and cancelled exports to small countries, which were forced to design and build their own PANIC FIGHTERS. HB 288pp £30.00

21464AVI Tales from the Frontline - Middle East Hunters R Deacon Ray passedout in 1959, serviced Vampires at the CFS, served in Aden aboard HMT Nevassa then joined 8 Squadron at RAF Khormaksar in the desert, for two years working on Hunters. HB 320pp £30.00

23666AVI Horten Ho 229 Spirit of Thuringia The Horton All-Wing Jet Fighter A Shepelev Charts in detail the development and operational record of the Ho 229, one of the Luftwaffe’s so called wonder weapons and includes specially commissioned photos and drawings. HB 128pp £30.00

66908AVI Africa@War 46: Bush War Rhodesia 1966-1980 P Baxter The story of the Rhodesian War is not only an epic of superb military achievement, and revolutionary zeal and fervour, but is the tale of the incompatibility of the races in southern Africa. Colour/B&W photos. SB 64pp £16.99

66397AVI Latin America@War 16: Skyhawks Over the South Atlantic The Argentine Skyhawks in the Malvinas/Falklands War 1982 S Rivas The Skyhawks were responsible for inflicting the greatest damage upon the Royal Navy during this conflict. SB 88pp £19.95

63471AVI Torpedo Bombers 1900-1950 An Illustrated History J Lepage The torpedobomber was a very shortlived weapon system, operational for scarcely half a century from just prior WWI to the 1960s. Photos & Illustrations. HB 400pp £30.00

66892AVI Africa@War 45: Biafra - The Nigerian Civil War 1967-70 P Baxter Nigeria was a unique concept in the formation of modern Africa and began life as a lucrative if climatically challenging holding of the Royal Niger Co. SB 80pp £16.99

03236NAV Les Grandes Batailles Navales & Aeronavales De La Guerre Du Pacifique P Colombier FRENCH TEXT. Looking at the naval war in the Pacific between 1941-45. In-depth articles, maps, illustrations and photos. HB 216pp £44.90

90608AVI Squadrons! 38: The Supermarine Spitfire Mk.II The Rhodesian, Dominion & Eagle Squadrons P Listemann Covers the Spitfire XIV used by Belgian Sqn. (350) and one Dutch Sqn. (322). SB 38pp £13.99

58227AVI Legends of Warfare: P-38 Lightning Vol 2 - Lockheed’s P-38J to P-38M in World War II D Doyle Focusing on the later, mass-produced P-38J through P-38M. Each type is examined in detail. Colour, B&W Photos. HB 112pp £19.99

37776AVI X Planes 13 The Wright Flyers 1899-1916 The Wrights’ progression from theory to analysis, to ground-testing components, flight-testing and first powered flight, marked the world’s first successful ‘X-Plane’. SB 80pp £13.99

38674AVI Air Campaign 14: SchweinfurtRegensburg 1943 Eighth Air Force’s Costly Early Daylight Battles M Michel In 1943, the USAAF and RAF launched the Combined Bomber Offensive. SB 96pp £14.99

BWWHAL Building the Wingnut Wings 9: Halberstadt CL.II R Rimmell Special edition modeller’s guide to building the Wingnut Wings of the Halberstadt CL.II with archive photos and drawings and stage by stage build. SB 52pp £26.00

TAH30AVI The Aviation Historian Issue 30 In this issue: Charming The Snake - Airacobra: from RAF reject to Soviet Hero. Plus much more. SB 130pp £13.50

05761AVI Images of War: The Phantom F-4 The F-4 was developed for the USN as a longrange all-weather fighter. The USAF also ordered 543 F-4C variants. SB 117pp £14.99

AMIG5215 The Weathering Aircraft 15 Grease and Dirt J Mira Shows you how to use some standard techniques in addition to other specific processes. SB 64pp £8.99

39107AVI Bookazine Second World War Stories This magazine contains a plethora of photos and graphics with insightful articles, plus much more. SB 130pp £8.99

AEJ074 Aero Journal 74 FRENCH TEXT magazine. Les Guerriers de l’hiver, Dornier DO 17, Le père de l’aile Delta, Les As de la chasse italienne, L’actualité de l’aéronautique. SB £7.00

BAT91AVI Batailles Aeriennes 91 FRENCH TEXT magazine. B-29 sur le Japon, Le 21th Bomber Command. SB 94pp £12.50

AVI233 Avions 233 Jan/Feb 2020 FRENCH TEXT magazine. In-depth articles with lavish illustrations. SB 96pp £12.75

WL004AVI WingLeader Magazine 4 Full of great articles, illustrations and high resolution photos. Cover story: The aviation art of Roy Huxley. SB 144pp £15.00

Delivery from £3.50 for UK orders. Delivery charges for Europe and Worldwide available via the website.

Unit 1 Highfield Rd, Clitheroe, BB7 1AQ • [email protected] • 01200 401468

www.aviationbookcentre.com Chapel_Rowe_FP.indd 1

03/02/2020 12:06:37

ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

SILVER-DOPE SESQUIPLANE

Nieuport 17 By: Revell Item no: 03885 Price: £17.99 Web: www.revell.de/en Revell has reboxed Eduard’s 1/48 Nieuport 17 and added new decals depicting two Bailleul, Francedeployed airframes of 1 Squadron Royal Flying Corps. The tooling originated in 1998 and this appears to have resulted in flash across the pair of dark grey runners, although the single transparent item – the windscreen – is unaffected. Despite its age, there are detailed external

1/48

parts including convincing fluted control surfaces and a fine Lewis gun, although the one-piece cylinder block and interior mouldings are not as refined as those of more recent toolings. Modellers will have to decide whether Revell’s superb silver-doped fabric schemes are worth the increase in price over Eduard’s current ProfiPACK edition (8071), as the latter offers great value with photo-etched parts and a canopy mask. The choice is: • B’1690/4, 1 Sqn, August 1917 • A’313/5, 1 Sqn, April 1917

FOUR-GUN DONKEY

1/32

SOVIET EYE-IN-THE-SKY

Tu-143 Reys By: Clear Prop Models Item no: CP72004 Price: €12 Web: www.clearpropmodels.com Modellers looking for a slightly more unusual aviation subject should consider this offering from Clear Prop Models. It’s a 1/72 kit of the Tupolev Tu-143 Reys (Flight/Trip in Russian), an unmanned reconnaissance craft used by the Soviet Union and its allies. The completed model is small and while the bulk of the components are

supplied on two styrene runners, this comprehensive boxing also includes transparencies, a small photo-etched metal fret and a turned metal pitot. There are three display options: undercarriage legs and feet can be fitted, or else a three-piece stand or basic transportation trolley are supplied. As the type was operated by a variety of forces, a large decal sheet supplies options for Ukrainian, Russian, Czechoslovakian and Romanian Air Force machines, alongside full airframe stencils.

JOINT-VENTURE TONKAS

I-16 Type 10 WWII Soviet Fighter By: ICM Item no: 32004 Price: £39.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk The Polikarpov I-16 was continually developed during its service, leading to a wide array of versions. ICM has mirrored this with its range of 1/32 kits, including this Type 10 version. Transparencies are supplied on one clear runner, with the remaining components spread across four grey styrene frames. The updated wing with short ailerons, front cowling intake and smooth rear fuselage

78

Airfix Model World

are reproduced neatly, plus there’s a fine M-25 engine and well-appointed interior. A basic decal sheet contains national insignia, unit markings and cockpit instrumentation, with four airframe choices: • White 2, 1st Lt V G Rakhov, 70th Fighter Regt, Battle of Khalkin Gol, July 1939 • White 5, 70th Fighter Regt, Battle of Khalkin Gol, July 1939 • Red 15, Sgt F G Kalugin, 122nd Fighter Regt, summer 1941 • White 23, Capt L A Galchenko, 145th Fighter Regt, Murmansk Region, Soviet Union, 1941

Tornado Gr.1/IDS By: Platz Item no: FC-12 Price: £17.64 Web: www.platz-hobby.com Here’s another collaboration from Platz and F-Toys, in the form of a 1/144 Panavia Tornado twin-pack. Each kit is supplied on five styrene runners and the parts are excellent – panel lines are particularly fine and the jet nozzles feature internal and external detail. There’s also a basic interior supplied for each model – these will be visible under

1/72

1/144

the large separate canopies – and there are options for raised/lowered undercarriage and a selection of weapons. A comprehensive decal sheet provides airframe stencils and a choice of three airframes, with one each from Britain, Germany and Italy, the nations that collaborated to develop the type: • GR.1, ZA492/GS, 20 Sqn, RAF, First Gulf War, 1991 • 43 + 44, Marinefliegergeschwader 1, German Navy, 1993 • MM7073/36-51, 36° Stormo, Italian AF, 1990

ON THE SHELF AIRCRAFT KITS

BRISTOL’S SPEEDY TWIN

Bristol Blenheim By: Airfix Item no: A04016 Price: £19.99 Web: www.airfix.com Modellers have another chance to build Airfix’s splendid 1/72 Blenheim Mk.I, as it’s been re-released with the same markings as the original 2014 offering. With six styrene runners in the box, there’s plenty of detail on offer, from the faithfully rendered undercarriage to the well-appointed cockpit interior. Note, the fit of the cockpit components is ‘snug’ and tolerances are very fine, so testfitting is strongly recommended

GRECIAN GNOMES

1/72

to ensure the fuselage halves close properly. Panel lines are reproduced as fine engraved lines, and crystal-clear glazing means any effort expended on the cockpit will be well spent. Choices included a raised or lowered mid-upper turret, undercarriage, flaps, ailerons and elevators, while the bomb bay and engine cowl flaps can be posed open or closed. The markings options are: • L1134/FX-F, Sqn Ldr ASK Scarf VC, 62 Sqn, RAF Butterworth, Malaysia, Dec 9, 1941 • Escadrila 4 Recunoastere, Forţele Aeriene Române, Brasov, Transylvania, Romania, 1939 1/72

LICENCED SCHOOL GLIDER

EoN Eton TX.1/SG-38 ‘Over Western Europe’ By: Special Hobby Item no: SH 48198 Price: €15 Web: www.special hobby.eu Special Hobby has re-released its SG 38 Schulgleiter (school glider) as the type built by British firm Elliots. There may be just a single styrene runner and a supporting photo-etched brass fret, but this is a surprisingly busy kit, as the latter supplies turnbuckles for a full rigging fit. Thanks to the clever design and clear instructions,

HIGH-FLYING EIGHT

PZL P.24G in Greek Service By: IBG Models Item no: 72524 Price: €11 Web: www.ibg.com.pl Compared to IBG’s previous PZL P.11 releases, this kit represents the Gnome-Rhône-powered export variant, the P.24G, which had four machine guns in the wings as per the PZL.11g. It shares eight of the nine styrene runners with IBG’s PZL.11g kit, but there’s a new Runner Q for the fuselage, engine, cowling and rudder, accurately replicating the changes to the airframe. There’s much to savour,

from the delightful cockpit (with photo-etched brass seatbelts) and radial engine to the highly refined external surfaces, which even capture the fine corrugations on the upper wing accurately, along with the shell-case ejection ‘blisters’ on the underside. Three Greek Air Force schemes are included, one in an overall aluminium finish and the other two with different types of disruptive camouflage: • Black 116, Tatoi Airport, Athens, 1938 • Black 102, 1941 • Black 109, Argos Airfield, 1941

Spitfire HF Mk.VIII By: Eduard Item no: 84132 Price: £14.24 Web: www.eduard.com Having already been released as a ProfiPACK, Eduard’s quarter-scale Spitfire HF Mk.VIII makes a return in Weekend guise, meaning there’s just the styrene and decals from the former iteration. However, this proves just how good the ‘basic’ styrene is – five runners provide a wealth of detail, and although this is labelled as an HF sub-type (which featured extended wing tips for high-

1/48

this is the perfect introduction to adding bracing wires, as there are no complex arrangements – making it would be an ideal first step to mastering this skill. There’s a generous helping of markings options, with five schemes: • WP270, Maidstone Grammar School Combined Cadet Force, September 1951 • WP265, Air Cadets, RAF West Malling, 1950s • PL21, Royal Belgian Air Cadets, Beauvechain, 1959 • Yellow 80, Sweden, 1943-53 • No 95 Le Timide, France, 1945 1/48

altitude operations), both standardand clipped-wing versions can also be built. Modellers can choose between painting the instrument panel or using a decal (separate items are provided for each option) and the cockpit is packed with refinement, with an accurate ‘open’ floor and representation of engine and flying controls. Markings for two RAF schemes, plus full airframe stencilling for a single aircraft, are supplied: • JF857/QJ-3, Lt JE Gasson, 92 Sqn, Marcianise Airfield, Italy, early 1944 • JF364, 32 Sqn, Foggia, Italy, 1944

www.airfixmodelworld.com 79

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

FIERY REPTILE

Churchill Crocodile By: Airfix Item no: A02321V Price: £8.99 Web: www.airfix.com Surprisingly, Airfix’s 1/76 Churchill Crocodile is the sole small-scale offering depicting this 1943 flamethrowing variant of the Mk.VII tank. It’s a Vintage Classics release and combines the 1961-tooled base kit with components first produced in 2005. Two runners supply parts for the tank alongside vinyl tracks – the parts feature impressively neat detail, including fine suspension

1/76

springs, crisp panel lines and moulded tools on the upper hull, but the turret and main gun are less refined. Another pair of runners carry parts for the armoured fuel trailer – this is a restrained representation to suit its combination with the older tooling, but it does include moulded tyre tread and wheel hub detail plus engraved rivets. The markings scheme is unchanged from previous versions: • T251625 Briton, 34th Armd Bde, 107th Regt, British Army, Normandy, France, July 1944

TRACK AND TRUCK

1/35

1/72

DRIVING WIND

Flakpanzer III ‘Ostwind’ By: Revell Item no: 03286 Price: £17.99 Web: www.revell.de/en A pair of additional runners have been combined with Revell’s 1/72 Panzer III to enable modellers to produce a prototype Ostwind (East Wind) self-propelled anti-aircraft gun, fitted with a 3.7cm FlaK 43. This last item is particularly refined, with convincing detail on the firing mechanism and engraved detail on the muzzle brake, although the tip of the

barrel is solid. The turret interior is also well appointed, with separate seating positions and a finely rendered aiming mechanism, plus spare ammunition. The vehicle chassis features moulded surface detail, including textured surfaces and tools, while the running gear utilises detailed drive and idler wheels plus link-and-length tracks. Decal/painting instructions are provided for the two prototype vehicles (as assembled at the Sturmgeschütz-Schule Burg) in either overall green or Sand/ Bronzegrün schemes.

KURSK ‘LETTERBOXES’

Railway Gondola 16.5-18t By: MiniArt Item no: 35296 Price: £47.99 Web: www.miniart-models.com Diorama modellers will appreciate this MiniArt release as it combines parts for a 1/35 European opentopped railway wagon and length of track with an assortment of metal drums and five Wehrmacht figures, posed as if loading the railcar. It contains 42 runners and a photo-etched brass fret. The sole runner holding parts for the figures is blighted by flash, but the remaining frames

80

Airfix Model World

are excellent, including superbly rendered wooden surfaces on the track sleepers and wagon panels. There are options for early/late wheel and suspension assemblies, although Soviet/Russian gauge items aren't provided: • Coal wagon, Polskie Koleje Państwowe (Polish State Railways), Poland, late 1930s • Coal wagon, Stalin Railway, Mariupol, Soviet Union, 1941 • Deutsche Reichsbahn (German Imperial Railway Administration), 1943-44 • Deutsche Reichsbahn, Germany, 1945

German Tank Panther Ausf.D By: Tamiya Item no: 32597 Price: £34.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Tamiya has recently tooled new components to produce this 1/48 Panther Ausf.D, although the diecast lower hull originated with its preceding Ausf.G and Jagdpanther kits providing a substantial heft to the finished model. Four all-new styrene runners include the upper hull (with letterbox-style machine gun slot) and link-and-length tracks,

1/48

with these parts featuring panel lines, fine grilles and directional patterns on the track parts. A commander figure is supplied without lower legs to pose in the open turret, although the hatch cover can be fitted as the model features no interior. Two markings schemes are supplied: • Black 432, 4 Komp., Pz.Abt 51, Pz.Regt 39, Kursk, Soviet Union, July 1943 • Black 445, Pz.G.Regt Großdeutschland, Kharkov, 1943

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

WIDE-TRACK ASSAULT GUN

StuG III Ausf.B By: Dragon Item no: 6919 Price: £69.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Here’s a return for Dragon’s 1/35 StuG III, with this ‘Smart Kit’ version depicting the Ausf.B iteration, which features the correct broad rubber ‘tyres’ on the road wheels for this sub-type. The box contains 19 styrene runners, plus a one-piece lower hull, single-length DS Styrene tracks and a photo-etched brass fret. As usual,

MOBILE MEDICINE

1/35

a significant number of components are redundant, but the 7.5 cm StuK 37 L/24 gun is replicated fully, plus spare ammunition and spent shell storage, and radio equipment. Dedicated drive wheel and upper hull fittings are supplied for five markings options, including one with whitewash winter camouflage: • White 212, StuG.Abt 226 • White B, 1.Batterie, StuG.Abt 197 • White 23, StuG.Abt 192 • 1.Batterie, StuG.Abt 191 • Unidentified unit 1/35

1/35

POTENT COCKTAIL

M1897 75mm Field Gun By: IBG Models Item no: 35058 Price: €16 Web: www.ibg.com.pl This version of IBG’s 1/35 Matériel de 75mm Mle 1897 Field Gun represents one of the the 2,000 weapons supplied to the American Expeditionary Forces during World War One, where they received the designation M1897. Five runners are supplied, although one of these (Runner D) is intended for alternative iterations, so this offering utilises just four frames

and a small photo-etched (PE) brass fret. However, this doesn’t limit the level of detail, as parts are moulded neatly to include a delicate firing mechanism and handwheels, plus the gun barrel is a two-part assembly to build a realistic hollow cross-section. Larger components are also convincing, with the wheels featuring engraved tread and sidewall relief. Just an overall Olive Green painting scheme is suggested and there are no decals provided.

INFANTRY SUPPORT TANK

Model T Ambulance with US Medical Personnel By: ICM Item no: 35662 Price: £21.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk ICM’s 1/35 Model T 1917 Ambulance with US Medical Personnel is another value-for-money offering, as it’s less expensive than buying kits 35661 and 35694 separately. The vehicle is replicated superbly, with the textured stepping plates, convincing radiator sections and delicate spoked wheels being external highlights, while there’s

also a ten-piece powerplant and refined suspension components. While the interior is well appointed, the rear panel will require modification to fit the lowered position. The figures are excellent, and include two injured soldiers with a medic and nurse, but there are just American uniform options - French personnel must be obtained separately: • USA, 1917 • 524 SSU American Expeditionary Forces (AEF), France, 1918 • 625 SSU AEF, France, 1918 • 36 SS, French Army, France, 1918

German Panzer III Ausf.N By: Waltersons Item no: 873008A Price: £6.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Forces of Valor kits are aimed at wargamers, but are also ideal for novice modellers due to their large locating pins and precoloured material. This 1/72 Panzer III represents the final Ausf.N development of the type, fitted with a 7.5 cm Kampfwagenkanone 37 L/24 short-barrel gun. Separate turret, upper- and lower-hull parts

1/72

are provided alongside three styrene runners, plus a softer vinyl-type frame with the tracks and a two-part commander figure. The external detail includes convincing panel lines and moulded tools, plus there are delicate drive sprocket and idler wheel components, although the road wheels are joined to ease assembly. One painting scheme is provided for a vehicle fitted with Schürzen turret and hull plating (but no Zimmerit anti-magnetic coating), assigned to the shortlived PanzerBrigade ‘Norwegen’.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 81

ON THE SHELF MILITARY KITS

PORSCHE’S TRUNK

German Tank Destroyer ‘Elefant’ Sd.Kfz.184 By: Zvezda Item no: 3659 Price: £29.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net While Zvezda’s initial Zvezda’s 1/35 Sd.Kfz.184 Jagdpanzer (tank destroyer) featured the Ferdinand, its second release depicts the later ‘Elefant’. This version incorporated numerous changes, prompted by operational experience at the Battle of Kursk. Zvezda’s kit comprises 12 styrene frames containing a changed Runner G for appropriate hull fittings (including a hull-mounted

1/35

machine gun and revised engine grilles) and two examples of Runner H for different link-and-length tracks; the one-piece lower hull and other components are unchanged. Textured waterslide decals are supplied to apply Zimmerit antimagnetic coating, but their surface is extremely delicate and the pattern is overly uniform, so modellers may wish to discard these in favour of putty. Two options are provided: • White 102, 653 s.Pz.Jg.Abt, Italy, July 1944 • White 124, 653 s.Pz.Jg.Abt, Rome, Italy, summer 1944

EXQUISITE DISH

1/72

FuSE-65 Würzburg-Riese By: Hauler Item no: HLP72024 Price: €83.22 Web: www.hauler.cz

necessitating a concrete base. The emplacement, crew area and turning apparatus are represented by 24 cast components that feature convincing embossed rivets/bolt heads, while the dish is constructed from delicate PE components. there's a lack of provision for the antenna’s mesh inner face, but modellers should be able to find suitable material for this. Otherwise, it's a wonderful depiction of a subject not usually covered by kit manufacturers.

Hauler has re-boxed Extratech’s superb resin/photo-etched (PE) brass 1/72 German FuSE-65 Würzburg-Riese radar system. This installation was developed from the Type-D system – subject of a 2017 Hauler 1/72 kit (HLP72020) – but used a larger 24ft (7.4m) antenna dish for greater accuracy/range,

82

Airfix Model World

LIGHT AND AGILE

German Light Tank Pz.Kpfw.35(t) By: Airfix Item no: A1362 Price: £16.99 Web: www.airfix.com This Airfix re-boxing of Academy’s 1/35 Pz.Kpfw.35(t) includes markings options for Wehrmachtand Slovak-operated versions of the Czechoslovakian LT vz. 35 tank. It comprises eight styrene runners plus separate turret and upper hull components, with tracks supplied as link-andlength affairs. The type’s rivetted armour is recreated faithfully via

SNAPPY JEEPS

Willys Jeep ¼-ton 4x4 By: Italeri Item no: 7506 Price: £14.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Although designed for wargaming, this twin pack of Italeri’s ‘fast assembly’ 1/72 Willys Jeeps is an ideal beginner’s project as the vehicles can be constructed without glue, plus the green styrene means painting could also be forgone if desired. Despite the simple build sequence, the detail is still excellent: the chassis features moulded transmission, exhaust and suspension systems, while the

1/35

embossed surface detail, plus there are delicately moulded hinges and handles on access hatches. Separate tools and jerrycans enhance the external appearance, and while there’s an option for an open turret hatch, there’s no interior. Two figures are provided, although the uniforms represented are German. The markings depict: • White 533, Panzer Regt 11, 1 Liechte-Div, Poland, 1939 • Red 124, Slovak Prapor Vosby, 1st Tank Bn, 1941 1/72

windscreen part includes raised instrumentation. The one-piece bodyshell is the highlight, as the interior seating, gear levers, jerrycan and distinctive front grille are all moulded integrally. Three markings schemes are provided, with enough items to produce each twice. Note several decals are omitted from the black-and-white instruction sheets, but are shown on the box artwork: • US Army, Italy, 1944-45 • Força Expedicionária Brasileira, Italy, 1944-45 • 6th Armd Div, South African Army, Italy, 1944-45

 

 

ON THE SHELF AUTO KITS

EXPORT FAIRLADY

Datsun 240Z HLS30 (1972) By: Hasegawa Item no: 20405 Price: £44.99 Web: www.amerang.co.uk This version of Hasegawa’s 1/24 Datsun 240Z represents a 1972 roadgoing coupé, following several offerings depicting rally cars and Nissan-badged Japan-only variants. It comprises 11 styrene runners: five black, four chrome-finished, one white and one clear, plus a one-piece bodyshell, with four vinyl tyres and poly caps enabling the wheels to roll. It’s a kerbside model, with the

HAULING LUPINE

1/24

interior being the highlight. The door inners feature moulded handles and manual window crank handles, plus there are accurate pedals and centre console including separate handbrake and gear levers. Parts are included for left- and right-hand drive configurations, though just the former is shown in the instructions. There are no country-specific registration options on the decal sheet, with Datsun-labelled plates plus separate instrumentation for the interior. Either decals or self-adhesive metallic markings can be used to represent external trim fittings. 1/24

TAXI DE LA MARNE

Type AG 1910 Paris Taxi By: ICM Item no: 24030 Price: £25.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Alongside the London taxi iteration of its 1/24 Renault Type AG (see Reviews, Mar 2020), ICM has released a 1910 Parisian version, popularised as the ‘Taxi de la Marne’ following its moraleboosting role transporting French troops to the namesake battle in 1914. The seven runners and vinyl tyres are shared between both

SNAP-FIT MACHINERY

Mercedes-Benz Actros MP4 GigaSpace By: Italeri Item no: 3935 Price: £64.99 Web: www.hobbyco.net Italeri’s 1/24 Mercedes-Benz Actros commercial vehicle returns with a new decal sheet enabling modellers to depict a ‘show truck’ in the distinctive ‘Wolf’ livery, differentiating it from the initial 2016 release (3905) and Revell re-boxing (07439). The nine styrene runners are otherwise unchanged, comprising two each of black, white and

84

Airfix Model World

grey/silver frames, plus single examples of dark grey, clear and chrome-finished items. Seven vinyl tyres and a small section of black netting are also included. Moulded detail is excellent and the superb powertrain can be enhanced greatly by careful painting and washes, while the external bodywork is characterised by impressive depth to the main radiator grille and light fittings. The interior can only be constructed as left-hand drive, though, with a choice of appropriate continental (and British) registration plates on the decal sheet.

Deutz D30 By: Revell Item no: 07821 Price: £24.99 Web: www.revell.de/en There’s an increasing number of new-tool kits that can be constructed without glue, including this 1/24 Deutz D30 tractor from Revell. The combination of Easy-Click assembly and pre-coloured styrene mean it’s an ideal choice for beginners. Alongside the seven runners are four vinyl tyres and two sets of markings in the form of stickers

1/24

iterations, with differences limited to the decal sheet, which contains three registration plate choices and French labelling denoting the vehicle’s use as a taxi. The external appearance is simple but accurate, with highlights including the delicate spoked wheels, threepiece bulb horn and two-cylinder engine, although the last of these is hidden under the bonnet. Painting instructions suggest a smart red livery with yellow chassis, wheels and framework, with a black canvas ’roof‘. 1/24

and waterslide decals, enabling modellers of any ability to decorate the tractor effectively. Options include omitting the fine handrails (with stickers to hide the locating holes), plus two wheelarch styles. The wheels can also roll and the bonnet is posable. Moulded detail is restrained, but this nonetheless builds into a fine representation of this common German machine, and more experienced modellers can enhance the model with careful painting/weathering.

Build Better Models!

• Learn to build and share • The bi-monthly IPMS/USA your skills Journal magazine • 200 active local chapters • Local model contests • The IPMS/USA website with product reviews, galleries, and discussion forums

IPMS/USA By Modelers, For Modelers www.ipmsusa.org

CHESTER MODEL CENTRE RE
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK K Monday to Saturday 10:00 0 Ҋ 17:00 Sunday 11:00 0 Ҋ 16:00 00


10% OFF AIRFIX 2020 PRE-ORDERS

Web: www.chester modelcentre.com Email:shop@chester modelcentre.com Two Floor s Stocked W ith Railways, Books, Diecast, Wargaming, Tools, Paints, Accessories, and Much More - Gift Vouchers Available.

085_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

19/02/2020 11:10:27

ON THE SHELF FIGURES

MINIATURE MARINERS

1/350

MOTORISED HORSEMAN

1/35

Polish Soldier 10 Mounted Rifle Reg (Mot) By: ToRo Model Item no: 35F126 Price: €12 Web: www.toro-model.com.pl

WWII US Sailors No 2 (x60) By: Black Cat Models Item no: AC350047b Price: €14.95 Web: www.blackcatmodels.eu This Black Cat Models release contains 1/350 scale figures rather than the firm’s usual naval armament fittings, but it’s still within the manufacturer’s realm of maritime subjects as it depicts World War Two US Navy crew. It’s one of four sets containing such figures, this one

WEHRMACHT VETERANS

1/76

offering 12 poses, including sailors walking, carrying large items on one shoulder, operating machinery and signalling. While these postures are discernible even in this minute scale, details such as uniforms and steel helmets are harder to distinguish. Their tiny nature means each is particularly delicate and painting the figures will require extreme care, but once decorated these are a wonderful addition to any 1/350 US Navy model.

ARMOURED GATHERING

1/35

WWI British Tank Crew By: ICM Item no: 35708 Price: £8.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk

WWII German Infantry By: Airfix Item no: A00705V Price: £4.99 Web: www.airfix.com Airfix’s venerable small-scale German Infantry set returns as a Vintage Classic. It contains the same 48 figures and 15 poses as preceding iterations, including soldiers standing, walking, and crouching, equipped with rifles, hand grenades and flame-throwers, plus accurate depictions of the early-war Wehrmacht uniform and Stalhelm helmets. However, flash present and the softer styrene used will present a challenge for removal without eliminating the detail. No painting guidance is provided, so modellers will have to source references. Each of the standing/ crouching figures is supplied on a moulded base, making them ideal for adding to dioramas or for use when wargaming.

86

Airfix Model World

Perfect for creating dioramas with Tamiya or Emhar 1/35 World War One tank models, ICM has produced this pack of four British tank crew members, posed as if they are holding a briefing prior to entering the combat zone. It comprises a single styrene runner, with each figure supplied with separate arms and legs, head and headwear plus embellishments including armament, storage pouches and an information dossier. The poses are superb, with an officer – differentiated by a peaked cap and stick – plus two soldiers stood looking down at a crouched man using a smaller stick to point at the ground. Seam lines will require neatening but, once this is done, details including the facial expressions and clothing are convincing.

ToRo Model has captured a fascinating aspect of Polish military history in 1/35 scale with this excellent resin figure, which depicts a soldier attached to the 10th Mounted Rifle Regiment, part of the 10th Cavalry Brigade, a group reformed experimentally as a motorised unit in 1937. Six superbly detailed cast components are provided, alongside a decal sheet containing epaulette rank signifiers and a detailed history of the unit. This last inclusion explains the uniform of leather

FLYING DOORMAN

1/48

Helicopter Crew Vietnam By: PJ Production Item no: 481130 Price: €15 Web: www.pj-production.be Belgian manufacturer PJ Production has released this set of three 1/48 resin figures representing the crew of an American utility helicopter during the Vietnam war. It contains a pilot, co-pilot and door gunner. Each figure comprises a one-piece head and torso, plus separate limbs. Clothing is well rendered, with convincing creases and detailed boots, while the two pilots feature moulded seat harnesses and sunglasses/ sun visors on their helmets and the door gunner is armed with an M60 machine gun. No specific painting instructions are given as just generic green uniforms are shown on the box, but this does allow the custom-painted helmets used by many Vietnam crews to be replicated.

greatcoat plus the choice of two head components, wearing either an ex-German M16 World War One helmet or a black beret. The latter inspired the Schwarze Brigade (Black Brigade) nickname given to the unit by opposing German troops during World War Two.

LEATHER-CLAD CREWMEN

1/32

USAAF Pilots (1941-1945) By: ICM Item no: 32104 Price: £11.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Here’s another ensemble of ICM figures ideal for creating vignettes. It contains three 1/32 World War Two American bomber pilots walking to/ from their aircraft. Each figure wears a leather flying jacket and canvas harnesses while carrying their parachute in a separate package, plus each is moulded with different headwear – one has a peaked cap, while the others have baseball or foldable forage equivalents. Clothing has excellent detail, including convincing creasing, zips and ribbed cuffs on the jackets and seam lines on the trousers, while the parachute straps incorporate finely moulded buckles. Similarly, the poses – including one pilot carrying a flying helmet – and facial expressions are superb, ensuring the set will add significant interest to any World War Two aviation scene.

The International Plastic Modellers Society was established in the United Kingdom over 55 years ago with the aim of promoting and supporting the hobby of plastic modelling and has developed into a truly global ‘model club’ with more than 65 international bodies. Why not join us?

Some of the benefits of IPMS (UK) Membership More than 100 local and virtual Branches throughout the United Kingdom • Over 95 Special Interest Groups covering a multitude of subjects • Free entry to Scale ModelWorld ~ the World’s greatest model show • Access to an active Technical Advisory Service • Access to a Society Decal Bank and Instruction Sheet Library • A high quality, full colour Magazine six times per year • IPMS (UK) Online Forum ~ keep in touch • Exclusive discounts with modelling retailers

For an Information Pack, including a FREE sample magazine, please send 3 First Class stamps to the Membership Secretary: John Hebditch 45 Havisham Drive Swindon Wiltshire SN25 1SL Email: [email protected] or visit ipmsuk.org/membership/ to join online

Ad 2019generic.indd 1  

IPMS(UK) Thursday21/11/2019 11:20  

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

LEGENDARY ISLAND TRAVELLER

Sikorsky S-43/JRS-1 Avalon Air Transport By: Arctic Decals Item no: ARC72-095 Price: €10 Web: www.arcticdecals.com Modellers can combine this Arctic Decals set with Sword’s 1/72 Sikorsky S-43/JRS-1 or subsequent re-boxings by Special Hobby and Eduard to produce a civilian Baby Clipper operated by the short-lived Avalon Air Transport airline in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The pack supplies decals on two sheets plus a colour swatch and a set of masks to

apply the Insignia Blue cheatlines – particularly useful for the complex ‘cutaway’ sections on the rear fuselage. The full-colour instructions also show where a ⅛in (3.7mm) opening must be made on each side of the airframe to represent an additional porthole, plus a covered window on the starboard side – period imagery is included for reference. The decals supplied display excellent colour register and density, although they are printed on an overall sheet of carrier film, which means each section will have to be cut out individually.

DISQUALIFIED RACER

Ford GT Ford Chip Ganassi Team #68 Le Mans GTLM ‘19 By: Decalpool Item no: DP204 Price: US$17 Web: www.decalpool.com Revell’s 1/24 Ford GT Le Mans 2017 endurance racing car is

88

Airfix Model World

1/72

1/24

the intended recipient of these Decalpool markings. They provide an updated livery for a machine driven in the 2019 Le Mans 24-hour race – before being disqualified after the event. While the scheme appears similar to the kit-supplied options, there are new markings for the bonnet, roof and allblack rear wing, plus the racing number panels include the dates of the 2019 race. The last of these items include a small section that is out of register, but the bright colours of the markings are well replicated, and the opacity of large white sections is notably strong. There are also metallic-finish decals to represent the grilles around the front of the car, and the interior is boosted by replacements for the pedals and central console – although the kit-supplied racing harnesses are retained.

FACTORY-APPLIED DATA

Messerschmitt Bf 109F to G-6 Stencils By: H-Models Decals Item no: HMD48029 Price: £13.99 Web: www.ghstudio.net This comprehensive pack from H-Model Decals provides modellers with stencil markings to apply to 1/48 Messerschmitt Bf 109F-2s, F-4s and all G-variants from G-1 through G-6, with placement information demonstrating differences between factories plus Finnish and Romanian export aircraft. It comprises a single sheet of markings printed on gloss carrier

POLISH PROJECTILES Rocket Artillery in the Polish Army vol.1 By: ToRo Model Item no: 72D49 Price: €4 Web: www.toro-model.com.pl The first volume of ToRo Model’s 1/72 decals for Polish Army rocket artillery machines contains markings for 11 different vehicles used by the force between 1970 and 2016. It’s a small sheet printed on gloss carrier film and supplies numerals, rhomboid national insignia, registration plates and ‘kill’ markings – all items demonstrate sharp tonal boundaries and appear in register. While the instructions and unit information is supplied in Polish, information in English and full-colour reference photos are available from the manufacturer’s website – the

1/48

film, with the range of colours reproduced with excellent density, although several small triangular items appear slightly out of register. Nonetheless, each decal demonstrates superb detail – written elements are perfectly legible, while lines are remarkably fine. The range of applications is the highlight, as the sheet is divided into sections dedicated to machines built at Messerschmitt’s Bavarian plants at the towns of Augsburg or Regensburg, or those manufactured at the Erla Machinewerk factory in Leipzig. Furthermore, there are Romanian and Finnish language stencils for foreign-operated fighters. 1/72 selection includes: • 2K11 Krug (SA-4 Ganef), 61st Air Defense Missile Bde, Skwierzyna, Poland, 2008 • BM-21 Grad, 2nd Legion Artillery Regiment, Choszczno, Poland, 2002 • 2K12M Kub (SA-6 Gainful), 15th Air Defense Missile Regt, Gołdap, Poland, 2016 • 2K6 Luna (FROG-5), unidentified unit, 1970 • 9K33M2 Osa (SA-8 Gecko), 8th Air Defense Missile Regt, Koszalin, Poland, 2011

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

HAWKING DISPLAY

1/48

1/72

SPEEDY ZIPPERS Lockheed F-104 Starfighter Collection Part Two By: Xtradecal Item no: X72315 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk

F-16AM Falcon FA-101 Solo Display 2018 ‘Dark Falcon’ Belgian Air Force By: Syhart Decal Item no: 48-110 Price: €15 Web: www.syhartdecal.fr This Syhart Decal set allows modellers to replicate the Belgian Air Force’s F-16M Fighting Falcon FA-101 in the striking ‘Dark Falcon’ livery, as it appeared during the 2018 air show season, complete with the nickname Vader. It comprises four decal sheets plus a set of pre-cut

masks to aid painting the white sections on the fuselage underside before the markings are applied – this will ensure correct alignment with the decals. While the scheme predominantly uses shades of black, grey and white, these sections are perfectly in register and display crisp boundaries between tones. The dark livery is enlivened by the application of flag markings to the rear stabilisers – options are provided for the various European standards painted on these elevators between June and September 2018. The set is also available in 1/72 scale (72-110).

OVERSEAS REGALIA Gloster Gladiator Mk.I in Foreign Services By: ICM Item no: D3204 Price: £7.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk Following its superb new-tool 1/32 Gloster Gladiator, ICM has released this set of markings to allow modellers to portray

Xtradecal’s second collection of 1/72 F-104 Starfighters contains markings for 13 machines operated by various air forces from the 1960s-80s, including Turkey, Japan and Denmark, plus an example flown by NASA. As usual, the sheet is printed beautifully on gloss carrier film with sharp colour demarcations, opacity and register. National insignia, airframe-specific serials and other numerals are replicated neatly, although no stencils are provided. Placement guidance also provides information on weapons pylon configurations and other fittings. The choices include: • CF-104, 104761/761, 4th Wing, Canadian Armed Forces, CFB Baden-Soellingen, West Germany, 1983

• F-104J, 56-8672/672, 201st Hikotai, 2nd Kokudan, Japan Air Self-Defense Force, Chitose, Japan, 1970s • F-104G, 12623/FG-623, Turkish AF, 1965 • F-104G, Black 812, NASA, Dryden Flight Research Facility, California, USA, 1980s

DEVILISH CELEBRATION

1/72

1/32

fighters operated by Norwegian, Belgian, Chinese or Greek Air Forces with the Mk.I iteration of the kit. It’s a simple sheet containing just national insignia and airframe serials for the four options. Modellers may wish to undercoat the roundels due to their large size and translucent sections, particularly the white areas. Otherwise, the quality is superb as the tonal boundaries are well-defined, register appears excellent, and the gloss carrier film helps prevent silvering. The four airframes are: • Black 423, Jagevingen (fighter flight), Norwegian Army Air Service, April 1940 • G-38, 1 Escadrille, 1 Groupe, Belgian Air Force, Schaffen, Belgium, 1938 • White 2906, Kuomintang (Chinese Nationalist) Air Force, 1937 • Black Δ187, 21 Mira, Royal Hellenic (Greek) Air Force, 1940

VF-191 ‘Satan’s Kittens’ F-4J Bu No 153817/NL101, CVW-15 USS Coral Sea (CVA-43), 1976 By: Milspec Item no: 72-049 Price: US$13 Web: www.camdecals.com In 1976, many American military aircraft were painted in special schemes to celebrate the bicentennial of the signing of the Declaration of Independence by the United States. Milspec has replicated such a livery applied to an F-4J Phantom deployed on USS Coral Sea. It’s intended for Hasegawa’s

1/72 kit and combines the decal manufacturer’s stencil set (72-002), which includes national insignia and warning motifs, with a choice of three colours for the walkways (72005) and a new sheet containing the commemorative markings. These include large red diamond logos for the tail and a white fuselage band with red edges containing blue stars plus the bicentennial artwork –the instructions demonstrate this is to be applied after the walkways, as it was painted over these areas on the real aircraft. The aircraft depicted is: • 153817/101/NL, VF-191 ‘Satan’s Kittens’, USS Coral Sea, 1976

www.airfixmodelworld.com 89

ON THE SHELF DECAL SHEETS

DESERT SHARK MOUTHS

WDAF Kittyhawks By: DK Decals Item no: 72079 Price: £17.50 Web: www.dkdecals.cz DK Decals’ P-40 series continues with this splendid offering that covers 16 Kittyhawk Mk.I and MK.III airframes, all clad in standard Mid Stone/Dark Earth/Azure Blue camouflage. There is a mix of RAF and RAAF machines, and the former includes examples of 112 Squadron aircraft, all adorned with the unit’s trademark shark mouth artwork. Three sheets are supplied: one has airframe codes and serial numbers, the second provides national insignia, tail flashes and unit markings, while the third has the

AFRICAN TAIL British Airways 747-400 By: V1 Decals Item no: V1D0467 Price: C$23 Web: www.v1decals.com Modellers wanting a different scheme for their Boeing 747-400s should consider this beautiful V1

90

Airfix Model World

1/72

shark mouths and eyes artwork. The options include: • Mk.I, AK858, Flt Lt E Edwards, 94 Sqn, Feb 1942 • Mk.III, FR120, Flt Lt GWA Troke, 250 Sqn, Dec 1942 • Mk.IA, ET861, Plt Off R Cundy, 260 Sqn, Aug 1942 • Mk.I, AK581, 3 Sqn RAAF, 1942 • Mk.I, AK638, Sgt D Rove, 1 METS, Feb 1943 • Mk.I, AK578, Fg Off Neville Duke, 112 Sqn, Feb 1942

BRIGHT-TAILED HERC’

RAF Lockheed C-130J Hercules C.5 Special Schemes Pt.2 By: Xtradecal Item no: X72317 Price: £10.99 Web: www.hannants.co.uk

1/72

squadron had two insignia, with the early pyramid and ‘Sans Peur’ (without fear) version and more recognisable crest both featuring on the fuselage sides. Guidance is provided on the overall paint scheme, allowing modellers to replicate the multi-toned finish. As a bonus, Xtradecal has included markings for a 617 Squadron F-35B Lightning II, XM151/151, based at RAF Marham, although the annotated paint scheme is incorrect, as all F-35s are FS 36170 Camouflage Gray. Modellers will also need to check references as not all RAF aircraft have been observed with the nose code numbers.

The second set in Xtradecal’s celebration of specially marked C-130s features 47 Squadron’s stunning 100th anniversary paintwork, with its striking red/yellow/blue tail and rear fuselage, with the black/yellow fuselage cheat line. All items are supplied in decal form, with the unit’s demoiselle crane emblem and 1916-2016 text separate to the full-span vertical tail markings. Unusually, the

1/144 Decals offering, which depicts British Airways’ G-BNLO in the striking tail livery created by Ndebele artist Emmly Masanabo, with its bold geometric shapes in blue, yellow, red and green. This artwork, which was also painted on G-BIKC and G-MKSL between 1996 and 2001, is designed to fit Revell’s 747-400 kit, but may also be used with offerings from Trumpeter and Hasegawa with some work. All markings are printed on a single sheet of carrier film, so each item must be cut first before being dipped in water. The model should be painted in the airline’s usual white/blue scheme, as V1 has supplied all necessary stencils, windscreen and passenger windows, hatches and registrations, along with the gloriously printed tail/ rear-fuselage artwork.

CANNON-TOTING GUSTAVS Messerschmitt Bf 109G-10 WNF ‘The last in line’ Vol.1 By: Exito Decals Item no: ED480065 Price: €11.93 Web: www.exito.site Polish decal specialist Exito has released the first collection in a series dedicated to Wiener Neustädter Flugzeugwerke-built Bf 109G-10s, with three examples of the engine-mounted 30mm cannonequipped U4 sub-variant. As usual, the placement/colour guides are of such quality that they can double as posters, while the decals are printed beautifully, with sharp tonal boundaries and perfect register, notably on the Yugoslav national insignia. There are no stencils supplied, so these must be sourced from a kit or other aftermarket products, but note the

1/48

Swastikas are supplied as both split items and on a corner section, to allow for national sensitivities. This set is also available in 1/72 scale (ED72006). The three schemes are: • Black 5 Haidi, Oblt Fritz Nächster, 5./JG 52, Veszprém, Hungary, early March 1945 • Wk Nr 611023/White 45/Black 9645, kap Franc Rupnik, 83.LAP, Pula, Yugoslavia, late October 1950 • Wk Nr 61???8/Yellow 6, 6./JG 52, Ainring, Germany, May 1945

To advertise please contact: ALISON CHATER [email protected] ASHLEY SMALLEY [email protected]

OR CALL: 01780 755131 Trains4U.com

27 St. David’s Square, Fengate Peterborough, PE1 5QA Open Tues-Fri 9:30-5:00,Sat 9:00-5:00,Sunday 10:30–3:30,closed Monday Plastic Kits, Tamiya Radio Controlled Cars, Model Railways, Games Workshop & more..

We stock a massive selection of Paints, Glues & Weathering Products

OXONIANS

PLASTIC FANTASTIC Online Mail Order Hobby Shop Bicester, Oxon UK

The Eduard • Valom • Pavla AZ Models Master Barrels and Yahu Specialist In Model Construction Kits • Resin • Photo Etch Accessories • Decals

Tel: 01733 895989 e-mail: [email protected]

091_AMW_APR20_ad.indd 1

Email: [email protected] Website: www.oxoniansplasticfantastic.com

19/02/2020 09:50:50

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

CHIN-UP REPLACEMENT

1/48

MARINE SCOOTER

1/48

ONE-SHOT TANK DESROYERS

1/35

Tempest Napier Sabre Engine By: CMK Item no: 4393 Price: €21.30 Web: www.cmkkits.com While Eduard produces an aftermarket engine for its 1/48 Tempests, CMK has produced an alternative, replicating just the upper section of the Napier Sabre, which allows the type’s characteristic ‘chin’ radiator to be retained in full. The 35 resin components are superb, with the large engine block capturing the appearance of the double-stacked cylinder layout magnificently, while minute handles and pipework further enhance the appearance. New cowling panels are similarly refined, with a convincing framework plus delicate external panel lines/rivets.

VERSATILE GANGWAY

Panzerfaust 60 By: Eduard Item no: 635016 Price: £7.60 Web: www.eduard.com These 1/35 Panzerfäuste (literally tank or armour fists) are perfect for arming figures representing Wehrmacht anti-tank units, as they depict the most produced form of the disposable launcher used by German and Finnish forces from 1943 until the end of World War Two. Two of the eight weapons feature the type’s primitive sights, while the remainder have this section folded flat along the launch tube. The decal sheet provides warning legends and other markings applied to both the projectile and the launcher, including a choice of yellow/white labelling.

KATE ADORNMENTS

1/144

FELINE FOOTING

DOUBLE TROUBLE ARMAMENTS

1/48

OK-JET has added a threesection boarding bridge with a corrugated container-style construction to its range of 1/144 airport structures. It’s an injection-moulded kit comprising 12 ‘wall’ parts, a pair of styrene runners plus a sheet of pre-cut acetate for transparencies. Neat engineering means the supporting wheels will roll and it should be possible to change the length of the overall structure by sliding the sections, plus the ends can rotate to suit the surrounding scene.

92

Airfix Model World

Modellers with Tamiya 1/48 F-14 Tomcats will appreciate this HybridCAST undercarriage set from Kazan Model Dynamics, as it combines resin with stainless steel rod sections to provide a reinforcement. These are cast within each main leg and the raised cabling and pipework is augmented with separate oleos, scissor sections and retraction struts, plus a nosewheel approach indexer. There’s also a choice of early/mid/late production wheel hubs, while the tyres exhibit convincing engraved tread.

MiniArt has followed its KMT-5 mine-clearing equipment with the subsequent variant, the early type KMT-7, a system fitted to a range of Soviet/Russian, Warsaw Pact and Middle Eastern tanks. It comprises 19 runners plus a short length of metal chain, with options provided for mounting points designed specifically for MiniArt kits or alternatives for manufacturers’ offerings. The parts display excellent moulded detail, including raised access panels, convincing twined cabling and minute but accurately shaped bolt-heads, although no painting guidance is given.

1/48

Landing Gear Set for the F-14A/B/D By: Kazan Model Dynamics Item no: KLG4802TAM Price: US$34.99 Web: www.kazanmodeldynamics.com Airport Passenger Jetway Triple Stage Container Type Tube By: OK-JET Item no: OK4001 Price: €37.95 Web: www.brazmodels.com

1/35

KMT-7 Early Type Mine-Roller By: MiniArt Item no: 37070 Price: £17.99 Web: www.miniart-models.com

OA-4M Skyhawk External Update By: Phase Hangar Item no: 48056 Price: US$21 Web: www.phasehangarresin.com This Phase Hangar conversion set is intended for Hasegawa’s 1/48 TA-4J/F kits to transform them into a US Marine Corps Forward Air Control (Air) OA-4M airframe. It provides a new nose (with accurate countermeasures fairings and Angle-Rate Bombing Sensor dome), dorsal avionics ‘hump’, rear canopy section, antenna fairings for the rear fuselage and tailfin, plus new engine intakes. The parts’ detail is excellent, with neatly engraved panel lines, rivets/fasteners and access hatches. Full-colour instructions demonstrate the necessary preparation and modification to the kit.

STYRENE ‘SWEEPER

1/48

UPK-23-250 Gun Pods By: Eduard Item no: 648497 Price: £6.59 Web: www.eduard.com

B5N2 By: Eduard Item no: FE1002 Price: £9.96 Web: www.eduard.com Designed for Hasegawa’s 1/48 Nakajima B5N Kate, this photoetched (PE) metal fret contains parts to enhance the cockpit, front cowling, undercarriage bays and tailwheel. It includes pre-coloured instrument panels and radio equipment, which replace moulded relief on the kit parts, plus a replacement handle and folding mechanism for the dorsal machine gun (stored within the cockpit, underneath the glazed section). External enhancements include wiring for the mainwheel underwing bays and tailwheel, plus a plate to fit over the arrestor hook.

Aircraft/helicopter-mounted gun pods containing the GryazevShipunov GSh-23 twin-barrel cannon are given the designation UPK-23 and modellers can now add these Soviet-designed fittings to their 1/48 aircraft models, courtesy of this Eduard Brassin set. Each pod comprises just four components, with a total of four casting blocks, while the decal sheet provides all necessary stencil information. Components feature impressive detail: panel lines and grilles are delicate, while the gun barrels include convincing muzzle brakes and a hollow section at the tip.

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

VIPER ‘TUB’ UPGRADE

1/48

F-16C Block 25 By: Eduard Item no: FE1048 Price: £6.59 Web: www.eduard.com Modellers wanting a quick improvement for their Tamiya Block 25 F-16Cs will find Eduard’s ‘Zoom’ set a boon. The single pre-painted photo-etched metal fret supplies just the basic elements needed to ‘dress’ the interior, with side consoles and instrument panel sections, several of which must be laminated, plus ejection seat firing handles and harness releases, and even a safety pin ‘remove before flight’ tag. Moulded detail must be trimmed from the kit’s parts before the metal items can be added, but this is annotated clearly in the instructions.

TOMCAT ‘PADS’

PRICKLY PROJECTILES

1/350

OPEN THE DOORS

1/35

Fw 190A-5 Cockpit By: Eduard Item no: 648390 Price: £19.43 Web: www.eduard.com

Commonly fitted to British, American and Canadian escort destroyers and corvettes, the Hedgehog anti-submarine spigot mortar system is challenging to replicate in styrene, which makes Black Cat’s 3D-printed versions most welcome. It comprises four 24-round launchers as single piece items and the detail is exquisite, with each spigot clearly defined – the rear blast panel is integral to the main frame, so it’s a simple drop-in replacement or can be used to modify late-war vessels. There are sufficient units for at least two models, making this great value for money.

It’s the turn of Eduard’s own Fw 190A-5 to receive attention, with a stunning resin and photoetched (PE) metal cockpit. Comprising more than 40 finely produced parts, it will transform the appearance of the Fw 190’s interior. The firm’s highly regarded pre-printed instrument panels are augmented by individual control levers and switches, while items such as rudder pedals are a combination of resin and PE. Casting blocks feature minimal attachment points, which allows for easier removal for assembly/painting.

Workshop Gate By: Plus Model Item no: 503 Price: €15.40 Web: www.plusmodel.cz These laser-cut cardboard and paper gates will be useful for diorama builders, regardless of whether they are added to scratch-built or aftermarket buildings. The ‘rear’ item comprises just three parts, while the outer door has an extra paper and four photo-etched metal components to represent the sealing plate, handle and locks. Each gate will require careful bending along the pre-scribed lines to produce a bowed effect on the panels, but the result will be a realistic replica of a typical workshop entrance.

GETTING A LEG UP

1/72

KURFÜRST DIALS

1/32

A-4 Skyhawk Ladder By: Brengun Item no: BRL72190 Price: €6.47 Web: www.brengun.cz

Tomcat fans are definitely being spoiled at the moment, and Eduard has added to the mix with a set of resin late-style main- and nosewheels. There are eight finely cast components; the mainwheels are threepiece items, while the others come as single items. Detail is excellent, with brand logos on the sidewalls, convincing radial tread and excellent renditions of the inner brake faces. A pre-cut painting mask completes the package.

1/48

Hedgehog By: Black Cat Models Item no: AC350043 Price: €6.95 Web: www.blackcatmodels.eu

1/48

F-14A Wheels Late By: Eduard Item no: 648290 Price: £4.39 Web: www.eduard.com

FOCKE-WULF ‘OFFICE’

Here’s a simple improvement for any 1/72 Skyhawk (regardless of manufacturer), in the shape of a photo-etched (PE) brass access ladder. It’s a 13-piece ensemble, with separate side supports and individual steps – there are even tiny wheels for the ends of the rungs. A 7mm length of .5mm rod must be cut from styrene (not supplied) for the rail that is hooked over the edge of the aircraft’s cockpit sill. This is recommended for modellers with some experience of using PE due to the need to bed the rungs, steps and upper platform.

FIGHTER-RECCE CONVERSION

1/48

Hawker Hunter FR.10 By: PJ Production Item no: 481226 Price: €4 Web: www.pj-production.be

Me 109K By: Yahu Models Item no: YMA3235 Price: £8.30 Web: www.yahumodels. siemianowice.com Trumpeter’s large-scale Bf 109K4 is the subject of this drop-in replacement instrument panel from Yahu. The main item is presented as a single pre-painted and laminated sub-assembly onto which the main flight instrument bezel ‘shroud’ is then added, along with ancillary dials and two lever handles (the actual levers will require scratchbuilding from styrene rod). There are seven parts in all, making this a quick and easy upgrade.

Intended for use with kits by either Academy or Airfix, and in conjunction with Xtradecal’s markings, this quick conversion alters the fighter-bomber F.6/9 into a tactical reconnaissance FR.10, which had a forward- and oblique-camera installation in the nose. The camera items are presented in resin, with a clear forward ‘window’, while cannon barrels with muzzle brakes (used to reduce muzzle flash) are included as per the real aircraft.

www.airfixmodelworld.com 93

ON THE SHELF ACCESSORIES

GIMME SHELTER

1/72

SCHEME SETTER

DOWN TO EARTH HUES

SUPERSONIC ROCKET SHIP

Oilbrusher Ground Colors Set By: AMMO-MIG Item no: A.MIG-7503 Price: €8.70 Web: www.migjimenez.com ZIL-131 Shelter By: Hauler Item no: HLH72090 Price: €10.87 Web: www.hauler.cz These photo-etched brass components from Hauler are intended to enhance ICM’s 1/72 ZIL131 Command Vehicle kits, which originated with Omega-K in the 1990s. Despite its small size, the fret offers a comprehensive upgrade, with parts for the interior, chassis, cab and rear ‘hardtop’ cargo section. While most are like-for-like swaps with the styrene items, several items require the removal of moulded detail. This work is justified, though, as the finesse of textured surfaces and convincing in-scale depth are a great improvement over the styrene parts.

HEINKEL HIGHLIGHTS

1/48

The combination of oil paints with a dedicated internal applicator was seen by modellers as revolutionary when AMMO-MIG introduced its Oilbrusher range, and this triple-pack of ground tones follows this formula. One 10ml container each of A.MIG-3508 Dark Mud, A.MIG-3514 Earth and A.MIG-3516 Dust are included, providing a complementary range of natural light to dark tones respectively. Once applied, the shades can be manipulated with thinners until the desired effect is achieved and, as such, they’re ideal for adding dirt and grime to models.

HEAT-SAFE EXPLOSIVES

Masking Tape By: AMMO-MIG Item no: A.MIG8038-A.MIG8041 Price: €1.95-€3.95 Web: www.migjimenez.com Weathering specialist AMMOMIG has released its own range of masking tape in a selection of thicknesses, perfect for setting painting schemes in any scale. Each roll contains 82ft (25m) of tape, with the thinnest being A.MIG-8038 at just 2mm, followed by A.MIG-8039 6mm and A.MIG-8040 10mm, with the thickest being A.MIG-8041 at 20mm. Each variety is strong, yet is easy to position and manipulate, while the low-tack adhesion means the underlying surfaces remain unblemished once the covering is removed.

AIRBORNE STORES

Yahu’s pre-coloured instrument panels offer a great combination of detail, fit and value for money, and this set for ICM or Revell/ Monogram 1/48 Heinkel He 111Hs is no different. It comprises a pre-assembled section for the ‘greenhouse’ canopy suitable for all offerings, but the dials fit just ICM’s kits - they are printed on transparent acetate with surrounds supplied on a pre-painted photo-etched brass fret. Most replace the kit decals, adding relief and depth to the bomber’s interior.

94

Airfix Model World

Eduard’s 1/72 MiG-21 is the recipient of these UB-1657 rocket launchers - the pack contains four pods and associated pylons, constructed from a combination of resin and photo-etched metal components. As usual, the detail is top-notch, with delicate engraved rivets and surface features, plus the tip of each S-5 rocket is visible in its aperture. The hollow rear section of each fitting is enhanced with a small PE panel, plus a fully legible Cyrillic stencil date is provided on the decal sheet.

1/72 FIGHTERBOMBER FITTINGS

Paveway I Mk.83 Hi-Speed LGB Thermally Protected By: Eduard Item no: 648475 Price: £7.60 Web: www.eduard.com

He 111H By: Yahu Item no: YMA4879 Price: £4.70 Web: www.yahumodels. siemianowice.com

UB-16 Rocket Launchers w/ Pylons for MiG-21 By: Eduard Item no: 672190 Price: £7.60 Web: www.eduard.com

1/72

1/48

This set of 1/48 early-model Paveway Laser-Guided Bombs (LGB) from Eduard depicts Mk.83 munitions with an ablative coating designed to protect them if exposed to fire. This feature is replicated convincingly by the textured surface, plus there are one-piece tail sections with neatly engraved rivet detail and separate fins for the frontal area. The set includes a choice of nosetips for the bombs, stencilling and warning bands – while later munitions featured a pair of these yellow markings to denote thermal protection, just one is provided for each bomb.

1/72

Super Mystère B.2 By: Eduard Item no: SS683 Price: £7.60 Web: www.eduard.com Skyraider AEW.1 150-Gallon Tanks By: Freightdog Models Item no: FDR72132 Price: £4.50 Web: www.freightdogmodels.co.uk Freightdog Models has been quick to spot an element missing from Sword’s recent 1/72 Douglas Skyraider and produced this set of 150-gallon fuel tanks to remedy this omission. Minor seam lines will require neatening, particularly on the upper surface of each fitting but, once this work has been undertaken, these are ready to attach to the kit. Detail appears restrained, being limited to just the weld lines around the tanks plus raised blisters on the underside and rear, but this is accurate for the fittings.

Special Hobby and Azur-FRROM’s collaborative Dassault Super Mystère is arguably the best kit depicting the type in 1/72 scale. For modellers wanting even more detail, Eduard has released this ‘Zoom’ set containing photo-etched metal improvements. The kit’s instrument panels will need sanding to receive the new parts, plus the ejection seat requires modification for new handles and harnesses, but these are all pre-coloured and require just minimal assembly prior to fitting. External upgrades include several minute details for the lower fuselage, plus a neat canopy seal.

Hornby_FP.indd 1

21/02/2020 10:25:40

MODEL MART

CLASSIFIEDS ACCESSORIES

MODEL SHOPS

CHURCH STREET MODELS

10A Church Street, Basingstoke, Hants RG21 7QE

Tel: 01256 358060

OPENING TIMES

OPEN 5 DAYS A WEEK Mon, Wed-Sat 09.30-17.30

CLOSED 1st - 7th April

www.churchstreetmodels.co.uk BOOKS

York Military Books

MAY ISSUE

Military, Naval, Aviation & Militaria Books bought & sold. Relevant part or whole collections always sought

COPY DEADLINE: 12th March 2020

ON-SALE: 2nd April 2020

Tel: 01423 360828 Mob: 07717 155619 www.yorkmilitarybooks.co.uk

AIRFIX & REVELL KITS • 1/72 Tanks & Planes • 1/48 Planes • Ships - various • Cars - 1/24, 1/25 & 1/32 • Paint - enamel & acrylic • Weathering Powders • Washes • Glues • Plastruct • Balsa wood • Scenery • Abrasives & Tools

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

- THE MODELLERS MODEL SHOP -

Contact us on: 3-5 Brockwell Rd, Birmingham B44 9PF 0121 360 4521 Email: [email protected] www.mikes-models.co.uk

Over 11,000 products in stock covering all aspects of model making. Great after sales support. From ready to go kits, to materials for your hobby or anything in between.

GRAVESEND MODEL CENTRE ALL YOUR WARGAMING, MODELLING & RAILWAY NEEDS UNDER ONE ROOF SHOP OPEN: Mon - Sat 9am till 4.30pm • Sunday 10am till 4pm 15 The High Street, Gravesend, DA11 0BQ (Next to the New Ceasers Restaurant) E: [email protected]

Tel: 01474 536531 Find us on facebook

BUYING & SELLING

CALL

Buying & Selling Kits?

www.gravesendmodelcentre.co.uk

ON

Find out more at www.airfixmodelworld.com

ONLINE MODEL SHOPS

01932 840766 (pm only) | Email: [email protected] MODEL SHOPS

Fast and friendly service Easy to navigate webshop 10% discount on orders over £45 plus p&p Large range of over 3500 models, figures, tools and accessories from Revell, Airfix, Italeri, Tamiya and many more, ready for immediate despatch Based in the Midlands since 2001 with worldwide shipping available

models2u...like us on Facebook for all the latest info Web: www.models2u.co.uk Email: [email protected] Phone: 01543 433999

SCALE MODELS

EST. 54 Years

VAST SELECTION OF KITS, DIECAST, MODEL RAILWAYS & SCALEXTRIC

1000’S OF CURRENT & OBSOLETE KITS, AIRCRAFT/ MILITARY/SHIPS/CARS BIKES, TRUCKS etc. OUR WEBSITE LISTS ONLY A FRACTION OF OUR STOCK!

We carry a wide selection of Paints, Glues, Brushes, Modelling Tools, Airbrushes, Compressors, Balsa Wood, Modelling Materials, Plastics, Metal & Wood Section & Sheet, Foam Board,etc. EVERYTHING FOR THE MODELLER Visit our spacious shop. Open 10am - 5pm, 6 days. Worldwide mail order.

www.marcway.net ) 0114 244 9170 598 - 600 Attercliffe Road, Sheffield, S9 3QS

AMW_CLASSI_APRIL_20.indd 96

WANTED

ALL PLASTIC MODEL KITS WANTED

Unmade or already built, any quantity, especially large collections, also diecast models & books. Will collect nationwide and pay best cash price.

To advertise please contact:

ALISON CHATER OR ASHLEY SMALLEY

01780 755131

Please call 01202 976974 or 07901-890461 Email: [email protected] Thanks.

19/02/2020 10:15:39

Retail Partners

To see the full list of all Airfix stockists visit

www.airfix.com/stockists

CAMBRIDGESHIRE

KENT

STAFFORDSHIRE

• CITY CYCLE CENTRE 7 Market Street, Ely, Cambs, CB7 4PB Telephone: 01353 663131 Email: [email protected] Website: www.citycyclecentre.com

• THE HOBBY SHOP 85 Preston Street, Faversham, Kent ME13 8NU Telephone: 01795 531666 Email: [email protected] Website: www.hobb-e-mail.com

• RUBICON MODELS UK LTD Allanson House, Walley Street, Biddulph, Stoke-on-Trent ST8 6EA Email: [email protected] Website: www.rubiconmodels.co.uk

CHESHIRE

• KIT KRAZY 303 The Broadway, Bexleyheath, Kent DA6 8DT Telephone: 02082 987177 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kitkrazy.com

• CHESTER MODEL CENTRE 71-73 Bridge Street, Row East, Chester, Cheshire CH1 1NW Telephone: 01244 400930 Email: [email protected] Website: www.chestermodelcentre.com Open 7 days a week: Monday to Saturday 10-5pm and Sundays 11-4 pm.

COUNTY DURHAM • NORTH EAST MODEL CENTRE The Old Chapel, Chester Moor, Chester le Street, County Durham DH2 3RJ Telephone: 0191 388 1128 Email: [email protected] Website: northeastmodelcentre.co.uk

CUMBRIA • JACKSONS MODELS & RAILWAYS 33 New Street, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 9AL Telephone: 01697 342557 Email: [email protected] Website: www.jacksonmodels.co.uk

DERBYSHIRE • MALC’S MODELS 2-4 Pelham Street, Ilkeston DE7 8AR Telephone: 07786 896807 Email: [email protected] Website: www.malcsmodels.co.uk

EAST SUSSEX • EASTBOURNE MODEL CENTRE t/a Train Times Model Shop 37 Seaside, Eastbourne, East Sussex BN22 7NB Telephone: 01323 722026 Email: [email protected] Website: www.traintimesmodelshop.co.uk

ESSEX • ACTIVE SCALE MODELS Unit 22 Foundry Business Park, Hockley, Essex SS5 4HS Telephone: 01702 202155 Email: [email protected] Website: www.activescalemodels.co.uk

Deleted kits bought and sold with good discounts. We visit most major shows in the UK.

LINCOLNSHIRE • B&H MODELS 7 The Strait, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN2 1JD Telephone: 01522 538717 Email: [email protected] Website: www.bandhmodels.com • MASONS MODELS 20 New Road, Spalding, Lincolnshire PE11 1DQ Telephone: 01775 722456 Email: [email protected] Facebook: www.facebook.com/masonsmodels

MIDDLESEX • AJ AVIATION 4 Horton Parade, Horton Rd, W.Drayton, M/sex UB7 8EP Telephone: 01895 442123 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ajaviation.co.uk

NORTH YORKSHIRE • MONK BAR MODEL SHOP 2 Goodramgate, York YO1 7LQ Telephone: 01904 659423 Email: [email protected] Website: www.monkbarmodelshop.co.uk

NOTTINGHAMSHIRE • ACCESS MODELS 43-45 Castle Gate Newark, Notts NG24 1BE Telephone: 01636 673116 Email: [email protected] Website: www.accessmodels.co.uk • NEWARK AIR MUSEUM SHOP Drove Lane, Winthorpe, Newark, Notts, NG24 2NY Telephone: 01636 707170 Email: [email protected] Website: www.newarkairmuseum.org No museum admission fee if you’re just shopping – free car parking.

WEST MIDLANDS • MIKE'S MODELS 3-5 Brockwell Road, Kingstanding Birmingham B44 9PF Telephone: 01213 604521 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mikes-models.co.uk

WEST YORKSHIRE • FRIZINGHALL MODELS & RAILWAYS Unit 8A, Sapper Jordan Rossi Park, Otley Road, Baildon, West Yorkshire BD17 7AX Telephone: 01274 747447 Email: [email protected] Website: www.modelrailshop.co.uk • HALIFAX MODELLERS WORLD 25 Horton Street, Halifax HX1 1QE Telephone: 01422 349157 Email: [email protected] Website: www.halifaxmodellersworld.co.uk

WILTSHIRE • SALISBURY MODEL CENTRE 37 Fisherton Street, Salisbury, Wiltshire SP2 7SU Telephone: 01722 334757 Website: www.salisburymodelcentre.co.uk Open 6 days a week including Sundays.

YORKSHIRE • GOING LOCO MODEL RAILWAY 38 Potovens Lane, Lofthouse, Wakefield WF3 3JF Telephone: 01924 824748 Email: [email protected] Website: www.goinglocomodels.com

SHOP

USA • SPRUE BROTHERS MODELS 620 Haines, Liberty MO 64068 USA Telephone: 816-759-8484 Email: [email protected] Website: www.spruebrothers.com

LLC

To advertise your details here please contact

ALISON CHATER Email: [email protected] ASHLEY SMALLEY Email: [email protected]

OR CALL: 01780 755131

AMW_CLASSI_APRIL_20.indd 97

19/02/2020 10:16:08

ARCHIVE TREASURES SUPERMARINE SPITFIRE

T

he Supermarine Spitfire’s place in British hearts and minds was cemented by its role during the Battle of Britain, operating with distinction alongside Hawker’s Hurricane. In this undated photograph, an

early Mk.I airframe is identified by its untapered ‘stick’-type aerial and flat canopy, and the black/ white underside camouflage is the type applied to these aircraft until June 1940. Lettering on the central crewman suggests this

is a training exercise, while the removed cowling (bottom left) implies that work is being done on the aircraft’s engine, all managed with the ‘high-tech’ involvement of a wooden chair as a step stool! Propeller blades and leading

edges exhibit wear and tear, while the undercarriage cover inner faces appear aluminium toned, rather than the usual underside colours. Note the clearly marked Dunlop tyres on the earlystyle five-spoke wheels.

AIRFIX MODEL WORLD ISSUE 114 ON SALE APRIL 2, 2020 *

*UK scheduled on sale date. Please note that overseas deliveries are likely to occur after this date.

98

Airfix Model World

Harder_Steenbeck_FP.indd 1

05/02/2020 16:16:34