1:48 F-14D Tomcat

The real subject

The F-14D Tomcat is the final production form of the American carrier fighter, with a crew of two. The wing changes its sweep in flight, between the engine nacelles there is a wide flat fuselage and above it a pair of vertical tail surfaces. The D version is told from the older machines by the sensor pods under the nose. In 1:48 scale it is a large model, on which coarser detail does not disappear even at a distance.

What the set offers

A photo-etched metal fret in 1:48 scale from Eduard's production. The metal takes the place of the spots where a plastic part is always thicker than the scale would have it: thin edges, grilles, loops, buckles and small panels. The extent of the set and the target kit are given in the manufacturer's instructions, which also carry the recommended order of work. Go through the instructions before you start gluing plastic: some of the parts may belong in places that cannot be reached once the fuselage is closed up.

Building and painting tips

Have fine tweezers, a sharp blade and a hard surface ready. Cut the tab; never tear a part off, as a piece torn away is bent and straightening it without a trace is not possible. Make the bend along the etched score line and draw it home with a straight edge. Try the fit dry and, if need be, sand the plastic under the part, so that it does not stand above the surrounding surface. Finally degrease the metal and spray it with a primer for metal; only then apply the covering shade.

What is in the box

The package holds a photo-etched fret according to the manufacturer's listing. The kit, the paints, the glue and the decals are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.