1/32 Nieuport 17's

Modeling Subjects Aircraft
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Hi all, I’ve seen quite a few posts on building the Acadamy/Hobbycraft offerings, and thought I’d put in some links and advice. On the subject of interiors, they deffinately need dressing up. The Tom’s kits are the best, but you’ll still have to scratch build the belt rewind wheel, which is very visible, and the Ammo can which can also be seen. The Mg’s are OK, but the Lewis is only good for British planes, and then only just. Once again, Tom’s to the rescue. Theirs are superb. Also Copperstate Models has some guns, but I believe they only have the jacketed Lewis. Weathering is slight. These machines were kept mostly clean, as they were made of fabric & wood. The castor oil discolored the front & underside slightly. It also hardened to a crust that had to be chipped off. Also the wheels aren’t black. This was before “vulcanizing” so they’re either light gray, or the color of a gum eraser. semi-clear yellow/brown. here’s some links to help. Jose

http://www.wwi-models.org/Photos/index.html

http://ww1-aircraft.info/

http://www.repligun.com/Historical.html

http://www.afa.org/magazine/Dec2000/1200lafayette.pd#search=Lafayette%20Escadrille

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Cool sights. Thanks, Jose!

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A good source for WWI info (planes not armour) is www.theaerodrome.com . Go to models, and ask away. If “the Awsome Steve lawson” can’t help, there’s also ‘Dan San’ Abbot. There’s a host of others too numerous to mention, but most have written books, and are more than willing to help. For instance, Dan San clued me to the fact that Fokker EV/DVIII’s wings weren’t solid green, but Camoflaged? That’s right! and the facts are there to prove it. Including pics. That in itself is very cool to know. I’ve been reading FSM since 1985, and never heard that. Check it out youself. JW

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I agree Jose. Theaerodome site is extremely useful for anyone considering WWI aircraft.

Regards, Rick