1:72 Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat

Eduard photo-etched set 1:72 Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat

The set contains photo-etched metal parts for sharpening up a plastic model of the Grumman F6F-3 Hellcat carrier fighter in 1:72 scale. It is a full photo-etched set from the Czech firm Eduard, that is, a more extensive version than the smaller pre-painted Zoom range. Etched sheet allows parts in a thickness that injection-molded plastic cannot reach at this scale, so it is the most effective way of moving a small model toward a truer look.

It is not a model of the aircraft but an accessory for one. The base kit has to be bought separately.

The real subject

The Grumman F6F Hellcat was a single-seat carrier fighter of the US Navy in the Second World War, powered by the air-cooled Pratt and Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp radial engine. The F6F-3 version was the first production form of the type. The structure was rugged, with a long range and easy handling, which made the Hellcat one of the most widespread carrier aircraft of its day.

Installation and painting tips

In 1:72 scale the parts are very small, so work with sharp tweezers and good light and keep the fret lying on a hard surface. Make the bends in a bending tool; on the smallest parts the edge of a razor blade will do. Bond them with cyanoacrylate glue applied with the tip of a wire, or the glue will swamp the part. Degrease bare metal before painting and go over it with a primer. Level the plastic where the part seats so that the photo-etched item lies flat.

Who the set is for

• builders of American carrier aircraft in 1:72 scale
• modelers who want to raise the detail of a small model
• more experienced modelers with experience of small photo-etched parts
• those building a model for a competition or a display case

This is an accessory set, not a kit. The base model, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.