I have just completed my PM 1/72 DFS-194. A very simple kit, only 12 pieces, no decals (which is correct, since the plane had no markings).
The kit was reasonable, shape and size is ok, plastic a bit soft, details ok (there are no rivets or panel lines on a glider…)
The worst point of this kit is the canopy, the frames a oversized, making it look like armored glass. Sanding the frames of was impossible since they are on the inside…
Surface detail is also very shallow so I used pastel to highlight the lines (instead of a wash)
A tiny bit of history: the DFS-194 was a rocket powerd research aircraft, designed by Alexander Lippisch. This was ultimatly developed to the Me-163 A and B Komet. (so it will look good next to my Me-163A and J8M1 Shusei, I am making a little Komet collection)
Very cool little model, and a seldom modeled one to boot! Nice job on this one. I have a couple of PM kits, but have not built one yet. Hoping to next year though! [tup]
Looks very cool RemcoGrob! [tup] I haven’t added that one to my collection yet but I would love to. I also have a collection of Me 163’s going with the Me 163S two seater and the Huma Me 263. Would love to add the Japanese version to the collection too. Which kit did you you use for the Japanese version?
The canopy frame work is, as you said a bit rough. Have you ever tried using frosted Scotch tape? I’ve had success painting a segment of the tape the color of the frame work and slicing off strips. Then apply the strips onto the canopy, burnish and trim carefully, and voila!
…My two, F-106s that are very close to completion, are related to your DFS-194!
That sounds like a good technique. I have tried decal strips, which works as well. But which ever technique you use for canopy framing, first thing would be to make a new canopy. I might do that I if I build this kit again (since I like the me-163, I might just do that)
And yes, in a way, the DFS-194 is the grandpappy of the F-106.
