1:32 Douglas A-20J/K Havoc/Boston Mk.IV

The real subject

The Douglas A-20 Havoc was an American twin-engined attack bomber of the Second World War. It was powered by radial engines, it stood on a nose gear and it made its name for speed at low altitude. The A-20J and A-20K versions differ from the machines with fixed gun armament in the nose by a glazed nose for a navigator, who directed the bomb release for a whole formation from it. In British service the type carried the name Boston.

What the kit offers

The model is in 1:32 scale, so the span of the finished aircraft passes half a meter and it is a piece that will ask for a place of its own in a display case. The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted, and the course of the build follows the instructions from the manufacturer. The large scale gives room to details that would be lost in a smaller one, but at the same time it forgives no carelessly sanded joints and no unfinished interior.

Building and painting tips

• Mask the glazed nose before spraying and apply the paint in thin coats.
• The interior of the nose will be visible through the glazing, so it pays to give it time first.
• Build a large model in sections and keep checking the joints dry.
• The radial engines come out with a dark glaze between the cylinders and lightened edges.

Before applying the decals, go over the surface with a gloss varnish and at the end even everything out with a matte or semi-matte one. Traces of service on so large an area need only be suggested sparingly.

Terms of supply

Paints, glue, putty and tools are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.