New kits and gear-door tricks

Model Airplane News, Jun 2000 by Leu, George

The kit includes glue (for the rivet heads) perforated tape (available with holes of several sizes) and a glue applicator. You simply press the tape down next to a panel line, apply the glue spots and let them dry. Remove the tape and you have a beautiful row of "rivets." Try it; you'll like it.

THE ART OF ILLUSION

Recently, I had an interesting conversation with my buddy Dick Bernier of Meister Scale* about my 84-inch Meister Bf-109. I asked him whether he thought I could convert it into a G-14AS version. We discussed the conversion process in detail, and then Dick told me what he thought about the whole scale modeling process:

"Scale modelers are illusionists; We try to create models that are interpretations of aircraft we like, When we build a model to a point at which we feel the illusion is complete, the model is complete also. If you were to put one of my stock, fun-scale Spitfires on a flightline, probably ninety percent of the spectators would be able to identify it. For some modelers, that is all they need to accomplish their scale illusion. If you were to take your Bf-109G14AS to a fly-in, most people would know it as a Messerschmitt. A few would know whether it was an F, F, or G version, and fewer still would notice the different tail and canopy configurations. Finally, only you would be left knowing the subtle differences that set it apart from a stock G model. If you think you can fulfill your own G-14AS illusion, then the project is possible."

Dick's comments not only convinced me that I can indeed transform my model, but he also changed the way I look at other models.

Regardless of a model's level of "scaleness," we always seem to compare each one with our own set of standards. Instead of quietly looking for mistakes and inaccuracies, I now try to appreciate a model's uniqueness and all the effort the builder put into it. I try to appreciate the illusion.

We should all be happy with our efforts if they measure up to our illusions of what they should be. Go ahead; create your own scale illusion!

"Addresses are listed alphabetically in the Index of Manufacturers on page 142.