1:48 F-86D

What the set offers

Photo-etched metal parts for the model of the F-86D aircraft in 1:48 scale. Photo-etch is added to a kit wherever a plastic part would have to be absurdly thick: on control panels, grilles, loops, latches and thin sheet. A metal part is tenths of a millimeter thick, so it looks right to scale on the model and can even hold a crisp edge. Which particular areas of the kit the set covers and in what order they are fitted is given in the manufacturer's instructions.

The real subject

The F-86D is an American single-engine jet interceptor derived from the F-86 Sabre. It is recognizable from the day fighter version at a glance: in the nose it carries a radome set above the air intake, so its nose profile is markedly different. Its armament was unguided rockets in a retractable tray under the fuselage, not guns in the nose.

Working with photo-etch

• cut the part out of the carrier sheet with a sharp knife on a hard surface; do not break it off
• make the bend in a bending tool or by laying a blade against the pre-pressed score line
• glue with super glue in small drops; on larger parts an adhesive with a longer setting time suits better
• degrease the metal before painting and go over it with a primer meant for metal
• move small parts with tweezers and work over a surface, not over a carpet

Who it is for

For the modeler who wants detail to scale on the model and does not mind working with small metal parts. Experience with photo-etch helps; leave yourself extra time on your first attempts.

Terms of supply

This is an accessory for a kit, not a model of the aircraft. The kit, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.