1:48 Lockheed-Martin F-16C Block 25

The real subject

The F-16C is the single-seat version of the American single-engine multirole aircraft that spread to dozens of countries and is still among the most numerous combat machines in the world. The designation Block 25 is tied to the first production batch of the C version, that is to its form from the middle of the 1980s. A model of such an aircraft lives on small things: on thin edges, on openings cut through and on the complexity of the cockpit, where injection-molded plastic always runs into the limit set by the thickness of the material.

What the set offers

The photo-etched metal fret gives the parts a truly thin profile and sharp edges. The range of the set, the number of parts and the kit it is tuned for are stated in the instructions of the manufacturer; follow them for the order of assembly as well, because some of the parts are fitted into places accessible only before the fuselage is glued together.

Building and painting tips

Work over a light surface with raised edges, as a small metal part will otherwise be lost. Separate the parts from the fret with a sharp blade, not by twisting, and level the remains of the tab off with a fine file. Make the bends along the scored lines, ideally in a bender or between two blades. They are glued with cyanoacrylate glue in minute drops, applied for instance with the tip of a wire. Before painting, degrease the metal and apply a primer intended for metal, as the paint will otherwise come off at the first handling.

• photo-etched metal parts in 1:48 scale, the manufacturer's part number 491048
• the real subject is the Lockheed Martin F-16C Block 25
• an accessory to a plastic kit, not a stand-alone model
• glued with cyanoacrylate glue, bent along the scored lines
• the range of the set and the kit it is for are stated in the instructions of the manufacturer

Terms of supply

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