1:48th scale Sopwith Camel

[Mike Norris (UK)]

Hi all,
As I specifically build 1:32nd scale aircraft, I wanted to see how a smaller scale model would be to build.
So I've started on an 'Eduard' Sopwith F.1 Camel (Bentley) (kit 8485).
Suffice to say it's much smaller than I thought it would be.
So it presents it's own challenges, not least trying to get half decent photographs!!.
I've used the 'Barracuda Studios' resin seat.
I've also added bracing and control rigging as well as additional pipework etc.
I don't know why as obviously it's virtually impossible to see.

Mike

[djuggie]

Mike,

What a beautiful build.  Clean, complete cockkpit, just like the big boys.  Thank you for posting.

Dennis

[Edo]

a ittle gem!

ciao
edo

[FAf]

Great idea! As I've yet to build a 1/32 Camel while I've built three of these Eduard models, it'll be interesting to see what you might point out during your build.

I don't know why as obviously it's virtually impossible to see.

You are absolutely right about that, but it sure looks great. If you're using the upper wing with the larger opening, then one can see fairly much of the cockpit.

Cheers
Fredrik

[NigelR]

As I specifically build 1:32nd scale aircraft, I wanted to see how a smaller scale model would be to build.

I've also added bracing and control rigging as well as additional pipework etc.
I don't know why as obviously it's virtually impossible to see.

There's your answer! Even 1/48 is a bit teeny tiny these days Mind you, it's hard to see in the Camel cockpit anyway.

Seriosuly, a very nice start. Dave Hooper tells me the new Camels are lovely models and you've made a great start on this one. What I can see looks really good.

[Mike Norris (UK)]

Hi all,
I've finished the 1:32nd scale Airco De-Havilland DH.2.
Also, I'm waiting for the next kit to arrive, the 1:32nd scale Thulin K.

So in the meantime, I'm continuing on with this model.
Sopwith Camel, Serial D3328 of No.209 Squadron, RAF, flown by Lt. Wilfrid Reid "Wop" May.
This was the aircraft May flew in the combat of the 21st April 1918, during which Manfred von Richthofen was killed.

Mike

[Mike Norris (UK)]

Hi all,
Just a quick update as I was away last week.
Wood effects have been applied.
I used 'Windsor & Newton' Alkyd oil paints.
Raw Umber, Raw Sienna and Burnt Sienna,

Mike

[bobs_buckles]

Beautiful cockpit, Mike.
I'm looking forward to seeing more updates.

Cheers,
BB 

[KiwiZac]

Herr von B took the words from my mouth! Lovely work so far Mike.

[NigelR]

Coming along nicely, the wood effects are spot on.

[macsporran]

Hats off to you for downscaling (or is it upscaling?) : I've bought a few two-seaters in 1/48 with a view to space saving, but I'm afraid I've lost enthusiasm and sold them off again. The range of figures in 1/32 also keeps me locked in as I like a pilot beside his machine and 1/48 is much more limited (as are my figure skills!)

Lovely detail work and I'm intrigued at the choice of the super-lucky Wop May - nice subject.
I'll enjoy seeing the finished article.
Sandy

[Mike Norris (UK)]

Hi all,
The kit decals have been applied.
Being 'Eduard' I tried the method of removing the transparent carrier film once the decals had set.
It worked by rubbing over the decal using white spirits with a cotton bud.
However, too much rubbing can remove the decal as well.
Too risky, so I just applied the decals in the usual way.

Now its onto weathering before I start the pre-rigging!!

Mike

[hrcoleman66]

Nice work Mike,

Interesting to watch this build come along.

I built the original Eduard Camel many years ago and have the Profipak (Dual Pack) in my stash.
I also have a couple of the new version sitting waiting as well.

I recall the original went together very easily.  Only the Cabane struts needed shortening to avoid an upward curve in the center of the upper main plane.

After February when my shed build gets finished (major renos going on around here at the moment.  All sorts of projects are on hold while the existing garage is used for storage), I hope to get back to modelling in all forms (Kit, scratch, flying models etc).

Cheers,

Hugh

[NigelR]

That's looking very good and ready for some grime.... I've read various things about those Eduard decals which seem to confuse and confound a lot of people. Those look ok so I think you made the right decision.

[macsporran]

I wonder what serial number you'll be giving this Mike.

Corgi etc have May's Camel as D3326 but the Camel File from Air Britain (The Bible as far as I'm concerned) has it as D3328.
I wonder what's in the Eduard kit.
Sandy