1:72 AIM-7E Sparrow III missiles (4 pcs)

AIM-7E Sparrow III Missiles, Four Pieces, 1:72

An accessory set of four guided air-to-air missiles in 1:72 scale. This is not an aircraft model, but armament for one. The parts are made by 3D printing, so they have a fine surface with no mold seam and are attached to support structures, from which they are cut. The manufacturer recommends the set for models of the Phantom II and the F3H Demon.

The real subject

The AIM-7E Sparrow III was an American medium-range guided missile with semi-active radar homing. The launching aircraft had to keep illuminating the target with radar for the missile's entire flight, which caused problems in close-range combat, but at longer range the missile offered reach that could not be matched by other means. The E version became the most widely used variant of its era, and it was carried chiefly by Phantoms.

Building and painting tips

Cut the supports off as close to the part as possible with a sharp blade or a fine saw, and sand down the remainder — do not snap them off. The printed material is hard and brittle, so work without applying pressure. It is glued with cyanoacrylate glue. Before painting, wash and degrease the parts and apply a primer, or the paint will not hold on the smooth surface. The missile's white body stands out well once a fine dark wash is worked into the engraved seams.

Who the set is for

• Builders of American fighters in 1:72 scale.
• Modelers who want to replace the coarser armament from the kit.
• Collectors of aircraft armament for display.

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