1:72 DH-82a Tiger Moth (Airfix)

A 1:72 photo-etched set for the de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth

This item is an aftermarket accessory, not a kit. It holds photo-etched parts in thin metal sheet that are added to a plastic model of the Tiger Moth biplane. The set is cut for one particular kit, the Airfix one, so the parts match its shape and spacing. The accessory is made by Brengun of the Czech Republic.

The real subject

The de Havilland DH.82A Tiger Moth is a British training biplane with open cockpits. It is the open cockpit that is crucial for a model, because you can see into it and simplified plastic fittings are conspicuous there. Photo-etched parts in sets like this therefore aim mainly at the crew area and at small external fittings.

Working with photo-etched parts

Cut the parts out of the fret with a scalpel on a hard surface rather than breaking them out, so that they do not warp. Make the bends over the edge of a ruler or in a bending tool; a sharp right angle is better scored first with the blunt side of a knife. Stiffer photo-etched metal can be annealed briefly over a flame and left to cool, which softens it and makes it hold its shape better. Degrease the metal with alcohol before gluing; it is bonded with super glue applied in a minimal amount, ideally with a toothpick. Metal does not take paint the way plastic does, so a primer coat is necessary before spraying.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want to raise the level of detail in the open cockpits of a biplane.
• Builders with experience of small metal parts and super glue.
• Collectors of British training subjects in 1:72 scale.

This is an accessory for a model. The kit, paints and glue are not included in the package.