1:72 BAE HAWK T.1 EXHAUST NOZZLE FOR AIRFIX KIT (3D PRINTING)

Reskit 1:72 BAe Hawk T.1, an exhaust nozzle for the Airfix kit

A resin accessory for the BAe Hawk T.1 jet trainer in 1:72 scale from the Reskit brand. The part is made by 3D printing, so it holds the sharp edges and smooth surface that are hard to achieve in injection-molded plastic in this scale. The set is cut for the Airfix kit, which with this item is the distinguishing detail, because Reskit also offers a version for another kit.

The real subject

The Hawk T.1 is a British two-seat trainer and light combat aircraft powered by a single Rolls-Royce Turbomeca Adour turbofan engine. With the Royal Air Force it replaced older trainer types and, besides basic and advanced training, it was used to practice air combat and live gunnery. The T.1 version was also flown by the well-known Red Arrows aerobatic team. On the Hawk the rear end is clearly visible, and an open nozzle is among the places where work on detail shows most on a model.

Building and painting tips

First wash the resin part in lukewarm soapy water, so that the mold release residue is removed. Cut the casting block off with a fine saw or a knife, sand the surface and protect your airways while sanding. The joint holds best with super glue, and a slower-setting type suits larger surfaces. Apply a primer before painting. The inside of the nozzle tends to be toned in metallics with heat discoloration toward the end of the pipe; it is well built up in thin coats of metallic shades unified by a dark wash. Glue the finished part into the fuselage only after painting, so that it is not clogged with paint.

Who the set is for

• Modelers who want to raise the detail of the rear end on a Hawk T.1 in 1:72.
• Owners of the corresponding Airfix kit.
• Builders of British postwar aircraft and of Red Arrows machines.
• Those who already have experience with resin and super glue.