1:48 ACE II ejection seat for F22 Raptor (Academy)

The ACES II ejection seat

The ACES II seat is the standard ejection seat of the US Air Force. A whole range of combat types carried it, and the F-22 Raptor received it as well. It belongs among the seats that allow a machine to be left even while standing on the ground, that is at zero speed and zero altitude. The replacement part in 1:48 scale is prepared for the Academy kit.

Why the seat gets replaced

The cockpit tends to be the first place a viewer looks on a finished model, and on an aircraft with the canopy slid back the whole seat is visible. A replaced seat therefore lifts the result more than many a change to the surface of the fuselage. It works particularly well on a model with an open cockpit, where it pays to spend time on subtle shading of the shapes and a fine accent on the edges.

What to watch out for

Seat the part only after a dry test: the cockpit tub tends to be a little differently deep on every kit and a replacement part may sit higher or lower than the original. Only once the position fits and the canopy can be laid in place without resistance should you add the glue.

Building and painting tips

• The part is not polystyrene; it is glued with cyanoacrylate glue.
• Cut surplus material away with a sharp blade a little clear of the part and sand off the remainder.
• Wash and degrease it before painting, or the paint will not hold on the smooth surface.
• Paint and finish the seat separately, and only then seat it in the cockpit.
• Choose the shades of the seat cushion, the straps and the equipment according to documentation on the real subject.

Terms of supply

This is an accessory to a kit. The kit itself, paints and glue are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.