Airfix 1/48 Bristol Blenheim Mk1

[BarryW]

About to start this one
The box top


I have this aftermarket. Masks are essential for the canopy plus a set of masks for the markings. While the Airfix decals are usually good I do prefer painted markings. Then there are some seatbelts as well.


As usual, here is my workspace all set ready to start.

The first of my 1/48 builds. I don’t build Airfix very often as they don’t produce 1/32 scale and their horrible soft plastic is too prone to warping for 1/24 scale but, hopefully this won’t be a problem on a small scale kit.

 

[Jim R]

Hi Barry
Quite a change from your last build. Blenheim's were used quite extensively during the early war years. I hope this Airfix kit proves your concerns unfounded
Jim

 

[BarryW]

I have made a good start. It is nice to build an Airfix, a rarity for me as my builds have mostly been 1/32 scale.

The plastic quality is the usual Airfix and, yes, there is some warping but at least in small scale it is not such a big problem as it can be in large scale. Look at the fuselage, a very easy fix. The sides are aligned at the rear.



I have built up some cockpit sub assemblies and will need to paint soon. Fit is good and there are absolutely no problems at all. Detail is adequate but a bit softer than you get on some higher end brands.





In reading up on the kit I decided that it’s best to attach the canopy early on to make sure it lines up. Doing so means a lot of care is needed as it needs to be firmly fixed with cement (thin, using capillary action) but tape is needed to hold the parts in position…. So I applied a little bit of cement well away from the tape. Once the tape is removed I will finish the cementing in sections.

 

[adt70hk]

Nice start Barry.

ATB.

Andrew

 

[Jim R]

Hi Barry
Glad it seems OK so far. Using tape and relying on the capillary action of thin cement is a worry. The glue can so easily 'capillary' itself under the tape
Jim

 

[BarryW]

Hi Barry
Glad it seems OK so far. Using tape and relying on the capillary action of thin cement is a worry. The glue can so easily 'capillary' itself under the tape
Jim

That is why I keep it well away from the tape. Incidentally, it worked. I removed the tape once secure and then carefully completed the cementing in stages. I have often done this sort of thing but it does take care. Pictures will follow when I get a chance. I will be masking up tomorrow.

 

[Ian M]

An interesting choice. Both of subject and scale. I hope that it meets your expectations in building it as much as mine in watching! No pressure... lol

 

[rtfoe]

Good progress there Barry. The detail on the molding is looking rather soft for a 1/48 scaled kit bordering on looking like Gummi bear sweets. The engraved panel lines are thick, it's as if they just enlarged the plan drawings from the 1/72 scaled kit which has crisp detail.

I just looked at my 1/72 kit and on magnifying its contents they look similar to the 1/48 except because it's smaller looks more crisp. Seriously surprised and was nearly going to upgrade to that scale.

Not wanting to say any further but I think with your skill it'll still look good. With all the extras put in and the painted markings will enhance it even better in this scale.

Cheers,
Richard

 

[rtfoe]

Incidentally, is the joystick or steering in a single piece or two. The 1/72 is in two. Could be totally different dies and approach to molding. Now I'm wondering whether to get the 1/72 Buccaneer or the 1/48.

Cheers,
Richard

 

[Dave Ward]

Barry,
looks good! - what did surprise me, when I looked at the price, on line - over £42. - add on your aftermarket parts, and it's getting to be an investment! I just can't see Airfix high prices being justified, when quality & availability isn't on par with other mainstream models of a comparative price!
Dave

 

[BarryW]

Even though the detail is soft I don’t think it’s a problem. Despite the greenhouse not much of it will show when buttoned up. As long as it is well painted and weathered it will be fine.

anyway - progress shots

Canopies masked. Still with the inside of one half to do



Cockpit parts primed



RAF Interior Grey Greenns sprayed



I am so pleased with the effect of the black basing on the cockpit sides I will not be applying washes or varnishes though I will dry brush.

below you can see a dry fit and it looks pretty good to me.

 

[adt70hk]

Coming on very nicely Barry.

Keep up the great work.

ATB.

Andrew

 

[Jim R]

Hi Barry
Looks very good to me and the fit seems nice. We'll make an Airfix fan of you yet
Jim

 

[BarryW]

Hi Barry
Looks very good to me and the fit seems nice. We'll make an Airfix fan of you yet
Jim

I have a soft spot for them Jim but I will rarely build them, though I will get the 1/48 Buccaneer. That might change if they up their production qualities, as they do have some really good kit designers.

 

[rtfoe]

It does look good Barry...lots of stuff too see even if it's going to be closed up. The large enough bird cage canopy will see to this.

Cheers,
Richard

 

[BarryW]

Fuselage sides joined and a couple of panels firted. Fit good, seams need sanding and there is some filler needed in a couple of places.


A quick shot of the pit.

 

[adt70hk]

Coming on nicely!

 

[rtfoe]

Looks really nice Barry. Progressing very quickly.

Cheers,
Richard

 

[Jim R]

Looking very good and no real issues so far
Jim

 

[BarryW]

While MDP applied to the seams is drying I have worked on the undercarriage. I should have taken some pics at an earlier stage but I can report that the fit and engineering is excellent. Here is a u/c assembly fitted into the engine nacelles ready to paint, something I will do before I cement the top of the wing into place. The wings have some warping, but again not a problem to rectify on a small 1/48 kit