1:72 Hawker Tempest Mk.II/V/VI Vacuform canopy 2.pcs /KVP

The real subject

The Hawker Tempest is a British fighter from the end of the Second World War, created by reworking an earlier type around a new thin wing. It was one of the fastest piston fighters of its day down low and became famous for its successes against V-1 flying bombs. The Mk.V and Mk.VI versions were powered by the Napier Sabre, an H-24 engine with its cylinders arranged in the shape of an H, whereas the Mk.II received the radial Bristol Centaurus. On all three versions the canopy sits high on the spine and is very much on show on a model.

What the set contains

Two vacuum-formed clear canopies in 1:72 scale. Drawn film holds a substantially smaller thickness than the thick-walled part from a kit, so the frames look finer and there is a better view into the interior. Two pieces in the package make practical sense: the first attempt at cutting out and sanding may not come off, and the second part gives a second chance. The execution and the kit it is meant for are given in the instructions enclosed by the manufacturer.

Working with a vacuum-formed canopy

The part is drawn on a carrier film and has to be released from it. Trace the outline with a fine marker, cut it out with an allowance using a sharp blade and sand the surplus away on fine abrasive paper laid on a flat board. Sand with short strokes and keep trying the fit on the fuselage, because material can always be taken away but never added. The matte edge left by sanding is evened out by polishing and a thin coat of gloss varnish. Glue it with a product intended for clear parts; thin cyanoacrylate will fog the surface.

Terms of supply

The aircraft kit, paints, masks and glue are not included, unless stated otherwise.