1:48 P-51K seatbelts STEEL

Eduard 1:48 P-51K - photo-etched steel seat belts

A set of photo-etched seat belts in steel for the cockpit of a model of the P-51K Mustang fighter aircraft in 1:48 scale. It is not a kit but a small detail accessory that takes the place of plastic belts or of belts printed on a decal. Steel photo-etching is stiffer and springier than brass, so the part holds its shape once bent and can be given a natural drape. In the open cockpit of a propeller fighter it is one of the first details a viewer notices.

The real subject

The P-51K was a variant of the single-engine North American P-51 Mustang fighter aircraft built in the Texas factory and differing from the more plentiful P-51D form above all in the propeller used, which came from another supplier. It was a long-range escort fighter driven by a liquid-cooled V engine, with a bubble cockpit canopy giving an excellent view to the rear.

Building tips

Separate the parts with a scalpel on a hard surface, not with pliers. Bend the steel slowly over the edge of a ruler or in a bending tool for photo-etched parts. You will create the drape of the belt by drawing the part over a rounded tool. They are glued with cyanoacrylate glue in the smallest dose. If the belts are not painted beforehand, degrease and prime the metal first, or the paint will hold badly. A dark wash at the end will bring the stitching and the fittings out.

Who the set is for

• Builders of models of propeller fighters in 1:48 scale
• Modelers who build with the cockpit canopy slid back or taken off
• Those for whom seat belts from a decal are not enough
• Beginners who want to try working with photo-etched parts on a simple item

The set is an accessory to a plastic kit, which is not included in the package. Paints, glue and tools are not supplied. Before buying, make sure it matches your kit.