1:48 F-14A Tomcat

Photo-etched parts for the F-14A Tomcat in 1:48 scale

A set of photo-etched parts from thin metal sheet for a model of the F-14A carrier fighter. Photo-etch is aimed where the real thing is sheet metal, a grille or a thin surface and where a plastic part in scale would necessarily come out thicker. The parts are etched into a carrier fret and held in it by thin tabs, from which they are cut only during fitting.

The real subject

The Tomcat is a two-seat carrier fighter with a variable-geometry wing, which is set in flight according to speed. The pilot sits in the front cockpit and the weapons systems officer behind him. The A version is the first production form of the type. The Tomcat was the only aircraft to carry the long-range AIM-54 Phoenix missiles, and it therefore guarded the airspace around carrier groups.

How photo-etch is worked

• Cut the parts out with a sharp blade on a hard surface, as an edge left by nippers ripples.
• Take the fold in a bending tool or over the edge of a ruler in one movement.
• Join the metal with super glue, as cement for plastic does not hold on it.
• Degrease the surface before painting and apply a primer.
• With a two-seat cockpit plan the order of work, because once the canopy is closed you cannot reach inside.

Who it is for

For modelers who build the Tomcat for a display case and want the edges and small areas to match the real thing even from close up. Tweezers, a sharp blade and patience are the requirements.

The package contains photo-etched parts. The kit, paints and glue are not part of it, unless stated otherwise.