The Wyvern was a British carrier
based attack aircraft used during the 1950's. It was the last fixed wing
aircraft to be built by Westland before they switched to helicopter
production. Initially designed to carry a torpedo, it was found that the
payload weight was just too great to prove effective when operating off
a carrier. The aircraft's most distinguishing feature is the huge
contra-rotating propeller, powered by a Armstrong Siddeley Python turboprop
engine. The Wyvern's claim to fame was during the 1956 Suez crisis.
Until Trumpeter introduced this
kit the only choice was either the Dynavector vacu-form kit or the Classic
Airframes injected one. Neither of those was what you would call an easy
build. Trumpeter has changed all that. The kit is a pleasure to build. You
have the option of building the kit with the wings folded or open. Building
them in the open condition requires a bit of care with the fold seam. If you
first join the outer section to it's respective side (separately doing the
upper wing then the lower) and then join the upper to lower (full span wing)
it helps alleviate a lot of the problems with gaps.
Click on
images below to see larger images
I built my kit almost OOB
and only added the NeoMega resin seat. You can't see much detail in the
cockpit anyway since it's all black but the resin seat is a nice addition.
The model was pre-shaded with Tamiya flat black and then painted with
Aeromaster acrylics. The kit decals were used (including the back and
yellow 'Operation Musketeer' stripes). The stripes require a bit of care
but settle very well with Microsol and Solvaset. Touch-up of the yellow on
the stripes is easy since Aeromaster's RLM-04 is a dead match for it.
Once the model is painted all the
weapons, misc details and landing gear can be added. The prop is actually
geared to counter-rotate and thusly can be positioned how you choose (much
nicer than the CA kit where you only have one position). The model was given a
final coat of flat, clear acrylic and proclaimed done. The Wyvern has always
been an intriguing aircraft and its looks grow on you. I'm proud to say this
model took first place in its category last year at the IPMS West Plains
contest.
Jeff
Visit my web site at http://www.geocities.com/jbrundt
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