1:48 MiG-17F

The real subject

The MiG-17 is a single-seat jet fighter of the early 1950s, which followed on in design from the older MiG-15 and removed its most pressing shortcomings. The F version was among the most widespread forms, and aircraft of this type served in dozens of countries long after newer types had replaced them in production.

What kind of set this is

This is a set of photo-etched metal parts in 1:48 scale intended for improving a MiG-17F kit. Photo-etch took hold in modeling precisely because of the thickness of the material: a plastic part cannot be made thin enough to match the real thickness of sheet metal, whereas an etched part can. The particular list of parts and their position on the model are described in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

The parts are held on the carrier fret by thin tabs. Cut through them with a sharp knife on a hard surface and do not break them out, or the part will twist. Make the bends over a sharp edge or in a bending tool; with long parts fold the whole length at once. They are glued with cyanoacrylate glue, or with two-part epoxy, which gives more time for positioning the part. Before painting, wash and degrease the metal and spray it with a base paint, otherwise the shade flakes off once dry.

Who it is for

The set suits modelers who have a MiG-17F kit part-built and want to add fine details. Working with photo-etch calls for tweezers, a sharp knife and patience, but the larger parts are within the reach of a less experienced builder as well. The model, paints, glue and tools are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.