1:32 French mechanic on a wheel

A French mechanic at an aircraft wheel, 1:32, Copper State Models

A resin figure in 1:32 depicting a French aircraft mechanic of the First World War in a working pose at an aircraft wheel. The pose is designed so that the figure follows on naturally from the landing gear of a model and the scene thereby looks alive. The casting is supplied unassembled and unpainted; it is not a finished figure.

The real subject

The landing gear of the aircraft of the day was among the most heavily loaded parts of a machine. Landing on grass field airfields meant constant checking of the rubber suspension, the wire spoking of the wheels and the tautness of the wheel covering. Mechanics therefore spent a great deal of time at the wheels, whether on an ordinary inspection before takeoff or on a repair after a hard touchdown. They worked in plain coveralls and tunics, usually without formal kit.

Building and painting tips

First wash the casting in lukewarm water with detergent, so that the mold release agent is removed. Cut the casting blocks off with a fine saw and sand the surfaces wet and with protection for your airways. It is bonded with super glue (cyanoacrylate). Before you stick the figure on permanently, try it dry against the wheel of the model and if need be adjust the angle of the limbs slightly, so that it sits exactly. After the primer, paint with a brush; muted shades completed by a wash and fine oil stains suit working clothing.

Who the figure is for

• builders of aircraft models of the First World War in 1:32
• makers of dioramas with the technical servicing of an aircraft
• modelers who want to show the work of the ground crew at a model
• more experienced modelers used to resin castings

The figure is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.