1:48 F-104C

The real subject

The Lockheed F-104 Starfighter was a single-engined supersonic fighter with an unmistakable silhouette: a very thin short wing, a long slender fuselage and tail surfaces arranged in the shape of a T. The F-104C version served with the US Air Force and, compared with the earlier forms, was adapted for attacks on ground targets as well. On such a slender machine the cockpit, the landing gear bays and the flaps are clearly visible on a model, and that is exactly where an accessory set comes into its own.

What kind of set this is

The contents are photo-etched metal parts, that is thin flat parts etched to an exact shape. Metal will carry thicknesses that cannot be produced in a mold, so the result looks correct to scale even in places where a plastic part looks coarse. The set is an accessory for a particular kit in 1:48 scale. Which plastic parts are replaced and what is added on top of that is given by the manufacturer's instructions.

Building tips

Separate the parts with a sharp blade on a hard surface and sand the remains of the tabs down. Make the bends in a bending tool or between two rules, so that the edge comes out sharp and straight. They are glued with cyanoacrylate glue in a minute amount, and on larger areas a thicker variant suits well, as it gives time to set the part in place. Degrease the metal before painting and lay a base coat on.

Who it is for

The set is for the modeler who wants details to scale and does not mind a little handwork with tweezers. Unless stated otherwise, the kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.