1:72 1:72 North American F-86F Sabre Photoetched parts instrument panel for Airfix ex Modell-Hobby /AFX

The real subject

The North American F-86 Sabre was an American swept-wing jet fighter which made its name above all in the dogfights over Korea. The F-86F version was among the most widespread and also became an export type flown by a number of other countries. The cockpit of the Sabre is clearly visible on a model under the large canopy, so the instrument panel is one of the first places worth attending to.

What the set contains

This is a photo-etched instrument panel in 1:72 scale, as the name of the set states directly. According to the name it is cut for the kit from Airfix, so its shape and dimensions match that cockpit. You will find the range of parts and their layout in the instructions enclosed by the manufacturer.

Building and painting tips

First sand the original plastic panel in the kit flat, so that the new panel seats without a step. Separate the photo-etched part with a sharp knife on a hard surface and sand the remainder of the tab. Wash and degrease the metal before gluing and painting, otherwise the paint will not hold on the smooth surface; a thin primer coat proves its worth. It is bonded with super glue, as cement for polystyrene does not hold on metal. The dials come out best if a drop of gloss clear is put into them once the paint is dry, imitating the glass of the instrument.

• 1:72 scale, the subject is the North American F-86F Sabre
• a photo-etched instrument panel, according to the name of the set
• cut for the Airfix kit
• bonded with super glue, not with cement for polystyrene
• it is a good idea to degrease and prime the metal before painting

Who it is for

The set suits builders who are bothered by an empty panel under a clear canopy and are not afraid of working with small photo-etched parts. It is an accessory to the build, not a kit of the aircraft; paints, glue and the model are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.