Construction
This build of Airfix’s 1:24th Typhoon was done soon after it’s release in 2014. I saw it at the unveiling at IPMS Scale Model World and decided then that I had to build it.
It is a masterclass in engineering, allowing easy construction steps and sub-assemblies to be built up. The surface detail is exquisite, and the Napier Sabre engine is a kit in itself.
Saying that, the kit does have its faults. The parts have extensive mould seams that take very careful removal, particularly on the cockpit tube framing. Ejector pin marks are also evident.
The one big weakness, literally, is the undercarriage. The kit plastic parts, while being superbly detailed and realistic, don’t seem to be up to the job of supporting the weight of the finished model. This would be even worse if aftermarket extras are being used, adding even more weight. I actually had an undercarriage failure and had to carefully remove both main legs and drill and pin them for extra strength. In hindsight, if I had done this whilst assembling this would not have been a problem…my bad…
Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) do a metal undercarriage set that replaces all the kit plastic with metal. I thoroughly recommend using this upgrade.
The ammo belts were from Live Resin, LRE-16001, and are actually 1:16th scale .50 cal belts. After some measuring and calculating, these were found to be a good match for 1:24th scale 20mm rounds.
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Rick says
Stunning build Chris. Reversing the fuselage codes would have given an erroneous nod to the editor!
Geoff Coughlin says
Hilarious Rick! Never spotted that one!!
GC
Michael Scott says
Stunning!
Tmurph says
What a stunning build Chris. The right amount of weathering and the overall finish is superb. I remember reading a book about the Typhoon. Full of detail and daring do regards the aircrew who flew the Typhoon into battle. One but stood out and that was during its test and evaluation period the Napier engine gave the engineers plenty of problems to overcome. One day a typhoon came in on a dead engine. When the ground crew looked at the engine they found all the spark plugs had been worn away such was the power of the Napier. It’s a beast and no mistake. Imagine a squadron of Typhoons coming in and you were at the wrong end of the attack, running away would have been a waste of time.
Chris Evans says
Hi Guys, thanks for the feedback!
This is a big old kit, and well worth the money. I would love to build the car door version of this but I would have to clear some shelf space first!!!
Thanks again for the kind words, glad you enjoyed it.
Chris.
Craige Bevil says
That’s a work of art! I’ll be attempting that one once I’ve upped my skill level a bit!
Geoff Coughlin says
Yes, this is really special from Chris E – if you get a mo, take a look at his other builds in SMN like his big Airfix Harrier FA.2 – stunning! GC