1:48 Lockheed SR-71A Blackbird nose cone

SR-71A Blackbird nose cone 1:48 from Metallic Details

A resin replacement nose cone for a model of the SR-71A strategic reconnaissance aircraft in 1:48 scale. It is not a kit but a single-purpose accessory: it replaces the nose section of a kit where the injection-molded part does not hold a clean shape or where a modeler wants a different form of nose. The casting allows a sharper transition edge and a finer surface than a split plastic mold usually produces.

The real subject

The SR-71A was a two-seat reconnaissance aircraft designed for long flights at high supersonic speed at great altitude. A characteristic feature of the airframe is the so-called chines, the side leading edges running from the nose along the fuselage, which contributed to lift and to the behavior of the machine at high speed. On this type the nose section was arranged as a separate unit, which shows on a model as a distinct dividing line.

Building and painting tips

Wash the part in warm water with detergent and let it dry. Separate the original plastic nose with a saw at the point matching the division of the casting and true the cut face on abrasive paper laid on a flat board. Repeat the dry fitting several times and watch the axis, because even a small rotation of the nose shows at once on this aircraft. Glue with cyanoacrylate, fill the joint and sand it down. The surface then needs a good primer and an even, fine texture, or the characteristic dark shade will show every ripple.

Who the accessory is for

• Builders of the SR-71 in 1:48 scale
• Modelers bothered by the shape of the nose from the box
• Anyone interested in present-day reconnaissance aircraft
• More experienced modelers who dare to cut into a finished part

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