1:72 F-18F

The real subject

The F/A-18F is the two-seat version of the Super Hornet carrier multi-role fighter. It differs from the single-seat F/A-18E in a lengthened cabin for two seats in tandem; otherwise it is the same airframe. The aircraft serves with carrier aviation and carries out both fighter and attack tasks. For a modeler it is precisely the roomy two-seat cabin that is interesting, because in 1:72 scale it is well visible through the large canopy and the plastic parts from the kit look coarse there.

What the photo-etched set solves

Photo-etched parts are made by etching the shape out of thin metal sheet. That is exactly why they can do what cannot be injection-molded in plastic: a thickness of tenths of a millimeter, sharp edges and fine texture. In 1:72 scale they are useful above all for seat belts, instrument panels, handles, raised features and grilles, that is for places where a plastic part looks thick.

Building tips

Separate the parts with a sharp blade on a hard surface; do not break them out. Make the bends in the scored lines, best of all with a bending tool or at least between two razor blades, so that the edge comes out sharp and straight. Metal cannot be glued with modeling cement for polystyrene, so use a small amount of super glue applied with the tip of a wire. Wash and degrease the surface before painting, otherwise the paint will not hold on the metal. Prepare the small parts over a surface where you can find them again.

Terms of supply

The set is an accessory for a plastic kit in 1:72 scale. Paints, glue and thinner are not included in the delivery, unless stated otherwise.