1:48 Messerschmitt Bf 109E-4/7 (for Tamiya kit)

1:48 Messerschmitt Bf 109E-4/7 — 3D decals for the cockpit (Red Fox Studio)

The set deals with the interior of an early Messerschmitt in 1:48 scale: the instrument panel, the side console and the seat belts. Everything is printed on decal paper with a layered structure, so the details are applied by soaking and are not glued on as parts. This is not a model of an aircraft but a cockpit accessory. The set is intended for the Tamiya kit.

What makes this cockpit special

The Emil has the tightest cockpit of all the machines Red Fox covers in this scale, and at the same time the least accessible. The canopy is densely framed, so once it is closed only a fraction of the interior stays visible — anyone who wants to make full use of the set should reckon with the side section of the canopy hinged open. The instrument panel is simple, with a few round gauges and without large grouped blocks. The controls are concentrated on the left side; the space to the right of the pilot is sparse compared with later types. The E-4 and E-7 forms differ mainly in external equipment, while the cockpit stays the same in its basics. The seat belts are simple and in plastic from the mold they are practically always missing.

How the set is applied

Paint the base and let it dry. Because of the tight cockpit it pays to fit the decals before the fuselage halves are glued together — once it is closed you can no longer reach the panel. Soak the part in lukewarm water, position it and press it down with a soft brush. Decal softener by drops, and sand the engraved detail flat beforehand.

Who the set is for

• For builders of early versions of the Bf 109 in 1:48 scale
• For modelers building with the canopy hinged open
• For those who do not want to paint small gauges with a brush
• For beginners in cockpit detailing

The accessory is supplied without a kit, paints or glue. Check before ordering that it matches your particular kit.