1:48 A-4N S.A.

The real subject

The Skyhawk is an American light single-seat attack aircraft with a delta wing, designed so that it fits onto the deck of an aircraft carrier without folding wing panels. It came about in many versions and the A-4N is among the later ones. A small aircraft means a small model for the modeler, on which every added detail shows all the more, and that is exactly why photo-etched accessories pay off on it.

What the set contains

This is a set of photo-etched parts, that is metal elements etched into a thin fret, in which they hold on narrow tabs. Photo-etch suits elements that are meant to be thin and broken up into many parts: grilles, covers, belts, the fine equipment of a cockpit. What exactly the set covers and which kit it is prepared for is given in the instructions from the manufacturer; the name does not specify it any further. Check it against the kit you have, because photo-etched elements are cut to the shape of the parts of a particular model and need not seat on another.

Building and painting tips

Before you start gluing, go through the instructions and check whether the colored elements have an adhesive layer of their own; if they do, glue would needlessly spoil them. Separate the other parts with a sharp blade on a firm surface, sand the remainder of the tab down and lead the bends along the marked grooves in one movement. A drop of super glue laid on with a toothpick is enough for the gluing. Degrease the elements without a color finish before spraying and spray them with a primer, or the paint will not hold on the smooth metal and will rub off during handling. Lay the small parts out on a light surface and take them with tweezers with fine tips, or they will easily spring away and you will not find them again.

Terms of supply

The kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.