1:32 P-61B Black Widow

P-61B Black Widow 1:32, Hobby Boss

An injection-molded plastic kit of the American Northrop P-61B Black Widow night fighter in the large 1:32 scale from Hobby Boss. It is an exceptionally large model with rich surface detail. The package combines gray plastic sprues with clear parts (among them two transparent engine covers), photo-etched metal fittings, white metal landing gear legs and rubber tires.

The real subject

The Northrop P-61 Black Widow was the first American aircraft designed from the outset as a dedicated night fighter. Its hallmarks were the twin-boom layout with two tail booms, the radar housed in the nose and the black night finish, which gave it the name Black Widow. The P-61B version was used at the close of the Second World War both in the Pacific and in Europe. The crew had several members, including the radar operator.

Building and painting tips

At the large 1:32 scale it pays to assemble and paint the cockpit and the engines completely before the fuselages are closed up. Mask the extensive glazing of the canopy and the nose carefully before spraying. Use liquid cement for plastic and bond the metal landing gear legs with super glue (cyanoacrylate). Apply the black night finish with an airbrush over a primer and bring it to life with fine panel highlighting, so that the large area does not look flat.

Who the model is for

• Collectors of American aircraft of the Second World War
• Fans of night fighters and of early airborne radars
• Experienced modelers who can handle a large and intricate twin-engined model
• Lovers of the large 1:32 scale for the display case

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.