1:24 Browning Cal 50 MKI/MKII Wing Mounted (4 machine guns)

The .50 caliber Browning Mk I and Mk II, wing installation 1:24

An accessory for a model, not an aircraft kit. According to the name the package contains four .50 caliber Browning heavy machine guns for a wing installation, in the Mk I and Mk II forms according to the manufacturer's designation, cast in resin for 1:24 scale. In a large scale the armament is among the parts that decide the final impression — the barrels are long, straight and lie in an exposed place on the model.

The real subject

The .50 caliber Browning, that is 12.7 mm, is an air-cooled short-recoil weapon and one of the most widespread aviation weapons of all. It was mounted in the wings of fighters in batteries outside the propeller arc; the wing form therefore treats the mounting, the ammunition feed and the controls differently from the fuselage or flexible variant. The designations Mk I and Mk II refer to production forms distinguished by the maker of the set.

Usage and painting tips

Long thin barrels are vulnerable in resin, but they can also be straightened: dip a slightly bent part in hot water for a moment, straighten it carefully and fix it in cold water. Do not forget the soapy bath before painting. In 1:24 layering works well — a dark base, a metallic shade, then a selective wash and finally fine rubs of graphite in the places where the weapon would touch the crew or a cover. Drill the muzzles out, as in a large scale the opening is clearly visible.

Who the set is for

• modelers of large fighters in 1:24 scale
• builders who detail open gun bays
• anyone interested in accurate armament instead of simplified plastic parts
• advanced modelers working with resin

The accessory is supplied unpainted, as resin parts to be finished. Glue, paints and the base kit are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.