1:72 Refueling Probe - NATO standard (used in every NATO aircraft with air-to-air refueling system) (1pc)

In-Flight Refueling Probe 1:72, NATO Standard (MASTER)

This is not a kit or an aircraft model, but a single turned metal part. It replaces the plastic in-flight refueling probe built to the NATO standard. The package contains one piece. It is made by the Polish company MASTER, which specializes in small turned parts made of brass and steel.

Why a metal rod instead of plastic

This part is one of the most exposed spots on a model. In 1:72 scale the probe comes out so slender that the injection-molded plastic version tends to be noticeably thicker due to the mold, often has a seam running its length, and bends or breaks easily when handled. A turned metal part is straight, coaxial, and holds its shape even after the model has been picked up repeatedly. The mouth of the funnel can also stay sharp on metal, which usually disappears from plastic once the seam is sanded away.

Fitting and painting tips

Cut off the plastic part from the kit and true up the mating surface. Carefully drill a hole matching the probe's pin into the fuselage or the fairing, dry-fit the part, and check the angle against a photo. It is glued with cyanoacrylate or epoxy; wipe off excess glue on the metal immediately, since it is hard to sand off. Before painting, degrease the metal with alcohol and use a primer made for metal, or the paint will chip off during handling. Instead of paint, the tip of the rod can be darkened by oxidizing it, which looks more convincing than matte black.

Who the accessory is for

• Builders of jet aircraft in 1:72 scale bothered by the coarse plastic part
• Modelers who handle their models often and want a durable detail
• Anyone combining metal parts with photo-etched sets
• More experienced modelers used to drilling and gluing with cyanoacrylate

The accessory is supplied unpainted and without a base kit. Glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.