1:48 Wickers K machine gun GB WWII

The Vickers K machine gun in 1:48 scale

A replacement part of the British Vickers K aircraft machine gun from the Second World War period, in 1:48 scale. It is intended for models where the weapon is to be seen close up: in an open defensive position, in a doorway or on a mount.

The real subject

The Vickers K was a British machine gun of .303 caliber intended for flexible positions. You can recognize it at a glance by the flat drum magazine set on top, which makes it look unlike any other weapon of the time. Gunners took to it for its high rate of fire and the quick change of magazine, and besides aircraft it also found its way onto the vehicles of desert units. On a model it is a rewarding piece: the drum magazine has a pronounced outline that catches the attention as soon as you look at the position.

Building and painting

• The parts are not polystyrene and are joined with cyanoacrylate glue; cement for polystyrene has no effect on them.
• Before painting, wash the weapon in soapy water and let it dry thoroughly.
• Cut the surplus material and the marks from production away with a sharp blade a little from the part and sand the surface carefully.
• The thin barrel is the most vulnerable spot; handle the part by a sturdier section and leave it on its carrier as long as possible.
• Paint the weapon separately, away from the model, and fit it as one of the last steps of the build.
• A dark wash will bring out the shadow under the magazine and between the controls; carefully lifting the edges with a dry brush gives the metal life.
• Think through the angle of the weapon in the position beforehand, because the direction of the barrel gives the whole scene its line.

Terms of supply

The machine gun is supplied. A kit, a mount beyond the scope of the box, paints and glue are not part of the delivery, unless stated otherwise.