1:48 Set of 2 barrels for German 13mm aircraft machine guns MG 131 (middle type)

MG 131 13 mm machine gun barrels, middle type, 1:48 (Aber)

A set of turned metal barrels in 1:48 scale from the Polish maker Aber. It is not an aircraft model but an accessory to a kit of a German Second World War aircraft. The package contains a pair of barrels of the 13 mm MG 131 aircraft machine gun in the form matching the middle type. The barrel of this weapon changed during production, and Aber therefore offers it in several variants; pick the one that matches your subject. The exact breakdown of the parts follows the contents of the particular package.

The real subject

The MG 131 was a German 13 mm aircraft machine gun of the Second World War. Thanks to electric ignition and compact dimensions it synchronized well with the propeller and fitted into cramped fuselage installations. During the war it replaced the older 7.92 mm machine guns in the fuselages of fighters and also found use in the defensive stations of bombers. Its characteristic fairings on the engine cowling are among the recognition features of late German fighters.

Building and painting tips

The parts in 1:48 scale are very small, so work over a surface and with tweezers. Dry-fit the barrels with the openings in the cowling and only then glue them with super glue. Degrease the metal and cover it with a primer. Leave the barrel itself in a dark metallic tone, bring out the muzzle with a wash and add fine traces of gases on the skin behind the barrels.

Who the set is for

• Builders of German Second World War aircraft in 1:48 scale
• Modelers who want the matching production variant of the barrel
• More experienced modelers used to very small metal parts
• Collectors of aircraft armament accessories

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.