1:32 Bf 109G10

A clean canopy above a reworked cowling

The G-10 version is among the last production forms of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 and was already being built under conditions in which production was breaking up across a number of plants. Its recognition features are the smoother engine cowling without the conspicuous bulges over the guns and, with it, the tall wooden fin. Above the cockpit sits the lightened hinged canopy with a minimum of bracing, which on this machine belonged to the standard fit, whereas the older versions received it only as a retrofit.

Where mistakes happen with this canopy

The weak point is not in the bars but in the perimeter line. The large part seats on the fuselage frame along its whole length and a shift of a tenth of a millimeter is enough for the asymmetry to show in opposite directions on the two sides. A layer of parts for the inner face is therefore a practical way of checking the position against the light before spraying. Besides three national insignia masks the set carries decals, so it covers both the spraying and the markings that cannot be sprayed.

• A cut for the lightened hinged canopy of the late version in 1:32
• Both faces of the glazing have their own set of parts
• Three stencils for spraying the markings instead of a decal
• Decals are included as well
• The paper carrier holds on the perimeter edge without going wavy

The recommended procedure is to mask, check the symmetry against the light and only then spray, because under a finished coat a shift can no longer be put right. Leave the decals to the end, once all the mask pieces have been removed and the surface has been given a clear coat.