1:48 Set of 2 barrels for German aircraft 30mm machine cannons MK 108 with blast tube

Barrels for the 30 mm MK 108 aircraft cannon with a blast tube 1:48 (Aber)

A set of turned metal barrels in 1:48 scale from the Polish maker Aber. It is not a model of an airplane but an accessory to a kit of a German Second World War aircraft. The package holds a pair of barrels for the 30 mm MK 108 automatic cannon together with a blast tube, that is the tubular extension through which the muzzle of the weapon passes out through the skin. In 1:48 scale an open metal muzzle is one of the details that lift a model the most. The exact breakdown of the parts follows the contents of the particular package.

The real subject

The MK 108 was a German 30 mm automatic aircraft cannon of the Second World War period. A short barrel and a low muzzle velocity were paid for with very effective thin-walled ammunition, so few rounds were enough to hit a bomber. The weapon was compact, which allowed it to be installed in wings, engine nacelles and between the cylinders of an engine. Among others it was carried by the late versions of the Bf 109 and Fw 190 fighters, the rocket-powered Me 163 and the jet-powered Me 262.

Building and painting tips

Separate the parts with a fine cut, try them dry against the holes in the skin and open a hole out gradually if needed, so that the barrel seats on the axis. Degrease the metal and go over it with a base coat (a primer). Match the blast tube to the color of the airframe, leave the muzzle in a metallic tone and pick it out with a dark wash. Given the small sizes it pays to work with tweezers over a mat.

Who the set is for

• Builders of German Second World War aircraft in 1:48 scale
• Modelers who want a faithful open muzzle instead of a solid plastic part
• More experienced modelers used to small metal parts
• Collectors of aircraft armament accessories

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.