1:72 Sukhoj Su-7BKL wheels (for any model)

Sukhoi Su-7BKL wheels (1:72, Armory)

This is a resin wheel set in 1:72 scale for models of the Soviet Sukhoi Su-7BKL ground attack aircraft from the Ukrainian brand Armory. It is not an aircraft kit but a replacement for the landing gear wheels, and the manufacturer does not tie it to one particular kit. The Su-7BKL had unusual landing gear, so its wheels differ from those of the other Fitter versions. Check the contents on the box.

The real subject

The Su-7BKL was the last production version of the Soviet Su-7 ground attack aircraft. The BKL designation refers to the wheel-and-skid landing gear: besides the wheel, each main leg carried an extensible skid that spread the load over a larger area when the wheel cut into a soft surface on an unpaved strip. Full skis were tested first, but it was the combined arrangement that went into production. The version also received a low-pressure nose wheel and two brake parachutes. It was built from 1965.

Usage tips

• Wash the parts in warm soapy water before building; mold release residue keeps the paint from adhering.
• Cut the casting blocks off with a saw or a cutting disc, and do not snap the resin.
• Glue with cyanoacrylate glue (super glue); solvent cement for polystyrene does not hold on resin.
• The easiest way to separate the rim from the tire is a circular mask or narrow masking tape.
• The BKL main wheels sit next to the skids, so before gluing check that you have enough room on the leg and the correct vertical position.

Who the set is for

• collectors finishing a model for a display case
• builders for whom the wheels from the injection-molded sprue are not enough
• builders of Soviet aircraft in 1:72 scale

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