1:32 Lynx Mk.8

What the set offers

A set of photo-etched parts for a model of the Westland Lynx Mk.8 helicopter in 1:32 scale. Photo-etched metal is a thin sheet with detail worked into it, so it suits everywhere a part should be genuinely thin in scale: grilles, belt buckles, handles, steps or the rims of covers look substantially more credible on a model than their plastic counterparts. Which particular parts of the model the set covers is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

The real subject

The Westland Lynx is a British twin-engined helicopter that came about in land-based as well as naval forms. The Mk.8 version belongs to the naval branch and served with the Royal Navy from the decks of surface ships.

Building and painting tips

• Cut the parts out of the fret with a sharp blade on a hard surface rather than tearing them; then sand the holding tab so that no burr is left.
• Make the bends over a straight edge or in a bending tool, along the scored line and in one movement, so that the sheet does not crack.
• It is glued with cyanoacrylate or soldered; ordinary polystyrene cement does not hold on metal.
• Before painting, wash and degrease the sheet and use a primer, otherwise paint holds badly on smooth metal.
• First cut off the plastic part the photo-etched one replaces and level the surface.

Who it is for

The set belongs in the hands of a modeler who is already up for fine work: the parts are small and you work with tweezers and a magnifier. The reward is detail you will not get out of a kit.

Terms of supply

The model of the helicopter, paints and glue are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise. Which kit the set is cut for is given in the manufacturer's instructions.