1:144 Little Boy - A bomb

A resin replica of the Little Boy bomb in 1:144 scale

An accessory from the Czech maker Brengun. It is a resin casting, that is one separate accessory element, not an airplane model or a kit. The subject is the American aerial atomic bomb of 1945 designated Little Boy. In 1:144 scale it is a small part that is fitted to a model of a heavy bomber or used as part of an airfield scene.

Where the accessory belongs on a model

There are three common ways of using it. The first is hanging it in the bomb bay of a bomber model, if you are building it open. The second is setting it into a diorama, typically on a transport trolley or in a pit under the aircraft, which is a scene that looks convincing on a small area. The third option is displaying it on its own on a plinth as a technical exhibit. In every case it is worth thinking through what will support the part, because resin is denser than plastic and a small bomb bay may not hold it on glue alone.

Working with resin

First wash the casting in warm soapy water with a brush to remove the mold release agent left over from the mold: without that, neither paint nor glue will hold on the part. Cut the casting block off with a saw or a cutting disc; never snap it off, as resin is brittle. Sand the remainder wet, because dry resin dust should not be inhaled; a sanding sponge and a dish of water prove their worth. It is bonded exclusively with super glue, as ordinary plastic cement will not bond resin. Apply a primer before painting and then paint it like any other modeling part.

Who the accessory is for

• Modelers building heavy bombers in 1:144 scale
• Builders of airfield dioramas and scenes
• Collectors who add carried ordnance to their models
• Modelers with basic experience of working with resin

The accessory is supplied unassembled and unpainted. The kit, glue and paints are not included in the package.