1:48 Sopwith 2F.1 Camel

Sopwith 2F.1 Camel 1:48 (Eduard)

An injection-molded plastic model of the British fighter biplane Sopwith 2F.1 Camel in 1:48 scale from the Czech brand Eduard. It is a select edition that adds colored photo-etched parts and self-adhesive masks for the glazing and the wheels to the plastic; the decal sheet offers several finishes. The 2F.1 version was the naval, shipborne variant of the famous Camel, adapted for taking off from platforms on the turrets of warships and from the first aircraft carriers.

The real subject

The Sopwith Camel was among the most successful fighters of the First World War. Compared with the land version, the naval 2F.1 had a fuselage that could be split for compact stowage on deck, slightly modified armament and a reduced span. It was powered by a rotary engine and was famous for its agility and for the respected response to the throttle that made life hard for inexperienced pilots. As a biplane, the model calls for rigging of the interplane struts and the control cables.

Building and painting tips

Glue the plastic parts with thin modeling cement for plastic. Glue the colored photo-etch with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue) and mask the glazing with the masks supplied. Apply a primer before painting and spray in thin coats with an airbrush. The rigging is best done after the base coat, with drawn rod or elastic thread; watch the accurate bracing between the wings.

Who the model is for

• Modelers with a liking for aircraft of the First World War
• Collectors of British fighters and carrier aircraft
• Builders who will appreciate photo-etch and masks in the box
• More experienced modelers who can manage the rigging of a biplane

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