1:48 SG-38 German and Slovak Service

SG-38 Schulgleiter (German and Slovak Service) 1:48

An injection-molded plastic model of the German training glider SG-38 Schulgleiter in 1:48 scale. The subject is a simple unpowered training glider with its characteristic open truss (framework) structure and a single open pilot's seat. The set focuses on aircraft of German as well as Slovak service. It is a small and delicate model whose charm lies precisely in the exposed tubular and wooden frame.

The real subject

The SG-38 Schulgleiter was a German training glider of the late 1930s, intended for the very first stage of glider pilot training. It had a high wing braced with wires and an open truss frame with no fuselage skin, on which the pupil sat practically in the open. Launching was usually done with a rubber bungee cord (a catapult) or with a winch. The type was among the most widespread training gliders of its day and thousands of beginning glider pilots passed through it; it also flew in the service of other countries, including Slovakia.

Building and painting tips

Given the slender truss structure, handle the model carefully and glue it with liquid modeling cement for plastic in small steps, so that the thin elements of the frame stay straight. Apply a primer before painting; with an exposed frame it pays to paint the individual elements before the final assembly. The covered surfaces (the wing, the control surfaces) benefit from fine shading and a discreet emphasis of the structure. Apply the small decals over a dried gloss clear coat.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of prewar and wartime gliding aircraft in 1:48 scale
• Modelers interested in the beginnings of pilot training and unpowered flight
• Builders who appreciate an unusual model with an exposed truss structure

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.