1:72 F-105 LADDER

F-105 Thunderchief access ladder 1:72 from LP Models

The accessory represents the ladder brought up to the cockpit of the Republic F-105 Thunderchief and is made in 1:72 scale. It is therefore not an aircraft kit but a separate detail for a model you already have. It belongs among resin and plastic accessories for aircraft. The number of parts and the dimensions of the finished ladder are stated on the packaging of the accessory.

The real subject

The F-105 Thunderchief was an American supersonic fighter bomber with a single jet engine, created for a fast penetration low over the ground. The cockpit was placed high above the landing gear, so without a ladder brought up boarding the aircraft was impossible, and the ground crew left one by the machine practically every time it stood on the apron. On a model, therefore, a ladder is not an ornament but an element that gives the scene a true sense of scale.

Building and painting tips

In 1:72 scale the rungs of the ladder are as thin as a hair, so separate them from the casting block with a fine-toothed saw and never with nippers. Work over a light-colored surface so that a small part does not get lost. Before painting, wash the casting in lukewarm soapy water and apply a thin coat of primer, otherwise the paint holds badly on smooth resin. Leave the structure in a metal shade or light gray and only suggest the worn places where boots touch it. A strong wash does more harm than good at this scale; a thinned tone in the joints is enough. When sanding resin, sand wet and protect your breathing.

Who the accessory is for

• Modelers who are building the F-105 in 1:72 scale
• Builders of airfield vignettes and small dioramas
• Those interested in the Cold War US Air Force
• Modelers who want to add ground equipment to a model on a base

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