1:48 Do 217J-1/2

Dornier Do 217J-1/2 1:48 (Revell)

An injection-molded plastic model of the German heavy night fighter Dornier Do 217J-1/2 in 1:48 scale from the production of the Revell brand. It is a recent tooling with fine engraved surface detail and a glazed cockpit. The box contains plastic parts, decals and assembly instructions; according to the subversion you choose you can build the J-1 night fighter or the radar-equipped J-2.

The real subject

The Do 217 came into being as a powerful twin-engine bomber, from which the Luftwaffe also derived the heavy night fighter of the J series. The J-1 version carried concentrated firepower of cannons and machine guns in a solid nose, while the J-2 version received an airborne radar for finding targets in the dark. The machine was powered by a pair of BMW 801 radial engines and carried a crew of several men. Because of its weight it was less agile than single-engine fighters, but it made its mark as a night hunter and in the defense against night raids.

Building and painting tips

Glue the plastic parts with a liquid modeling cement for plastic, fill the joints and sand them. It is a good idea to mask the glazing of the cockpit before spraying. Apply a base coat (a primer) before painting and put the paints on with an airbrush in thin coats; night schemes will appreciate fine shading of the panels and emphasis of the rivets and the engraved lines with a wash.

Who the model is for

• Modelers interested in German night fighter equipment of the Second World War
• Collectors of twin-engine Luftwaffe aircraft in 1:48 scale
• Builders who will appreciate a recent tooling with good detail
• Anyone interested in models with a glazed cockpit and rich armament

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.