1:32 TBD-1 'Devastator'

The real subject

The TBD-1, known by the nickname Devastator, was an American carrier-based torpedo bomber of the US Navy. In its day it was a big step forward: an all-metal monoplane with folding wings and a glazed cockpit for a crew of three, where biplanes had served until then. Before the war in the Pacific came, however, technology overtook it, and in the fighting of 1942 it was no longer a match for modern opponents. It is exactly that contrast between an ambitious start and a harsh end that makes it a rewarding subject.

What photo-etched parts do on a model

The 1:32 scale is large and everything shows on it. Molded plastic parts in this scale tend to be many times thicker than the real thing, above all where there should be sheet metal, a grille or a belt. Photo-etched parts remove that discrepancy: they have the real thickness of sheet metal, sharp edges and engraving that plastic cannot hold. The scope of the set and the drawings of the individual parts are given in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

• cut the parts out of the fret with a sharp blade on a firm surface; do not break them out
• sand the remains of the tab down with a fine file after cutting
• fold over a straight edge, and on long parts in small steps
• bonding is done with super glue applied in a minute amount
• degrease the area before painting and use a primer intended for metal
• work over a tray with a raised rim, as a small part will otherwise be lost for good

Terms of supply

What is supplied is the photo-etched fret. The kit of the aircraft, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.