1:48 F-16 Pitot Tube & Angle Of Attack probes

F-16 pitot tube and angle-of-attack probes, 1:48 scale

A set of turned metal air data sensors for models of the F-16 fighter in 1:48 scale from the Polish company MASTER. According to the item name it holds a pitot tube and angle-of-attack probes. It is a detail accessory, not an aircraft kit.

The real subject

The F-16 is a single-engine multi-role fighter with a frameless canopy. On the forward fuselage it carries a set of air data sensors: a pressure probe and, on the sides of the nose, angle-of-attack sensors. On a model they come into play right beside the cockpit, that is exactly where everyone looks.

Usage tips

In the larger 1:48 scale a plastic probe is better shaped than in 1:72, but all the more easily broken off, as it is longer and sticks out further. A metal part removes this problem for good. Cut off the plastic original, sand the surface and drill the hole with a micro drill bit to the diameter of the pin; glue the metal part in with thin super glue and check the axis from several sides until the glue has set. When painting, a different approach from the usual coat is worth trying: degrease the metal and let the section that has a metal appearance on the real aircraft oxidize with a bluing agent. That gives a subtle, uneven shade that is hard to reproduce with paint, and the layer does not add to the thickness of the part. Then paint the rest of the probe over a primer for metal. Glue the probes on only after the whole model has been unmasked and varnished.

Who the set is for

• Builders of modern fighters in 1:48 scale
• Modelers whose long plastic probe keeps breaking
• Those who work with bluing and oxidizing agents
• Display case models that are handled often

This is an accessory for further detailing of the model. The base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package.