1:72 Bucker Bu-131A/Bu-131D colour and markings

1:72 Bücker Bu 131A and Bu 131D — colors and markings (Mark I)

An item from the colors and markings range of the Czech brand Mark I, a decal set for 1:72 scale. It is not a kit but the basis for painting and marking an already built model of the Bücker Bu 131 training biplane. The name gives two production versions, A and D, which differ from each other above all in the powerplant and in small details on the airframe. How many finishes the set holds and how large the decal sheet is are not stated here.

The real subject

The Bu 131 was a two-seat training biplane of the 1930s with a welded tube fuselage frame, a wooden wing and fabric covering. It served as a basic training machine, and its simple, repairable construction gave it an exceptionally long life — it was built under license in several countries and airworthy examples still appear at air shows today. For modeling it is interesting above all for the variety of its finishes, from sober training schemes to the striking civil paint of later operators.

Tips for applying the decals

Varnish the surface with a gloss clear coat and let it cure. Cut the decals out closely, soak them briefly and let them release on paper. On a biplane with fabric covering the decals are laid across raised ribs — use a softener and press them down with a cotton swab so that they follow the shape. Watch out for the struts and stiffeners, across which the motif must not crease. Once dry, wipe the remains of the adhesive off with a damp cloth and unify the surface with a matte varnish, which looks natural on covering.

Who the set is for

• Builders of interwar biplanes in 1:72 scale
• Modelers who want a particular finish instead of the decals from the kit
• Anyone interested in aircraft still flying at air shows today
• Collectors of reference material for colors and markings

This is an accessory for a model. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.