1:32 General-Dynamics F-16A

The real subject

The F-16A is the first production single-seat version of the General Dynamics multirole fighter. It appeared in the 1970s as a lighter and cheaper complement to larger combat aircraft and became known for its agility, the excellent view from the bubble canopy and the reclined pilot's seat. The type stayed in service with a number of states for decades and ranks among the most widespread Western-built combat aircraft.

What the set contains

The name gives the scale and the aircraft type, but the kind of parts does not follow from it. This is an accessory intended for a kit in 1:32 scale; sets of this kind replace selected parts of the model with parts of finer shape and deeper detail. Which parts those are, which kit they fit and everything the package holds are stated in the manufacturer's instructions.

Building and painting tips

Cut the excess material off with a sharp blade a little way from the part and carefully sand the remainder so that the mating surface is not shortened. Before gluing and painting, wash the parts in lukewarm water with a drop of detergent and let them dry; settled grease is the most common cause of paint flaking off. Super glue holds reliably, but the joint will not take bending, so support larger parts while they set. Try the fit dry first.

• an accessory for a kit in 1:32 scale
• the excess material is cut off and sanded
• washing and degreasing before painting
• a dry test before the actual gluing

Who it is for

The set suits builders who want to take a model beyond what the kit offers and who are used to working from instructions. The model itself, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.