1:48 Fokker D.VIIF Weekend

What photo-etched parts can do on a model

Photo-etched parts are made by etching the shape into thin sheet metal, so the part is substantially thinner than its plastic counterpart. On a First World War aircraft this shows above all in the open cockpit, which is the most visible part of a finished model: on the seat belts, on the instrument panel, on the small control rods and on the bracing. The set is built for the Fokker D.VIIF in 1:48 scale, and the Weekend designation in the name refers to the release of the kit it is tuned for. The make-up of the parts and where they go is described in the enclosed instructions.

The real subject

The Fokker D.VII is a German fighter biplane from the last year of the First World War and it is one of the best-known machines of its time. The fuselage had a framework of welded steel tubing and the wing structure was held by struts, so the usual dense bracing wires did not run between the wings; at first glance this makes the aircraft look cleaner than its contemporaries. Pilots liked it, because it forgave mistakes and behaved well in slow flight. The letter F at the end of the designation distinguishes one of the variants within the D.VII family.

Building tips

• Separate the parts with a sharp blade on a hard surface; nippers will distort the metal.
• Make the bend against a metal edge or in a bending tool, pressing along the whole length of the part.
• Bond with super glue applied with a pin; an excess of glue will spoil the part.
• Degrease the surface before gluing, as glue does not hold on greasy metal.
• Fit the inside of the cockpit before you close the fuselage for good.
• Metal takes paint less readily than plastic, so a primer coat pays off.

Terms of supply

The kit, paints and glue are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.