Project Complete: AMK 1/48 Fouga CM.170 Magister
Well, its finally done. This is the AMK kit which is highly detailed inside and out. This model was built all out of the box. The AMK kit includes extensive photo-etch and die-cast metal parts. It also includes tremendous internal details which can be seen if you use the optional clear fuselage parts, and/or leave off the many access panels. I choose not to use either option to facilitate a quicker build. I utilized all acrylic paints for the base paint and enamel/oils for weathering washes. I also utilized water-color pencils to create worn marks, spills, streaks, and stains. I used the kit supplied decals for the model and they performed very well. I used some setting solutions to improve adhesion, and help the decal conform to the recessed details. I experienced significant problems with the internal intake trunking. The instructions do not indicate exact placement and where they should be seated. After assembly of these parts it was apparent they were not installed correctly. The fit is so tight I could not remove them without serious damage to the model. Both intake trunks should be pushed further up in the fuselage so that the back-side of trunk closest to the fuselage acts as a splitter plate. This is now very apparent when comparing this part to good reference photos. The other aspect that provided a challenge is attachment of canopies in the open position. The kit does supply 4-extension/support rods. These are the only attachment points for the canopy to the fuselage. They are small, fragile, and lack any real solid method to firmly attach to the canopy, and/or, fuselage. If you manage to attach them it is difficult to determine proper alignment due to the flimsy way in which they attach. I gave up after a while, already spending to much time on the model, and created bent brass hinge attachment points to solidly attach both canopies in open configuration. Other then those 2 issues the kit assembled well, good overall fit, especially considering the complexity and high internal parts count. Little to no filler was needed.
Paul, you have excelled yourself here. I get the feeling there’s a little ‘extra’ in this build. First time I’ve seen water colour pencils used. That butterfly tail is lovely and gives the aircraft a real futuristic look, despite the fact it flew just 7 years after the end of WW2.
A real character build; unusual, pretty, and very well done.
Thank You David.
You are welcome, she’s lovely.
Excellent work Paul. It does look like a terrific kit and you accomplished great looking operational look to it. Well done sir!
Now that right there's a really nice-lookin' build, my friend - Sharp!
Well, you've managed some "aspirational modeling" here. I am looking again at my kit there in the stash pile. This looks really wonderful!
Hello paul,
Excellent representation of this remarkable aircraft.
Why remarkable: Well because of its operational duration in Belgium service.
Introduced in 1960 (Former Belgium Congo). Last flight September 2007.
Making it 47 years. Regards, Dirk / The Netherlands.
http://www.belgian-wings.be/webpages/navigator/photos/milltarypics/post_ww2/Potez-Air%20Fouga%20CM170%20Magister/Fouga%20Magister.htm
Nice work, Paul. I remember one of those was parked at Palwaukee (Now Chicago Executive) airport for the better part of a summer about 15 years ago waiting for parts. I got a good look around it several times and was surprised how sturdy it was built. Thanks for sharing.
A great job! A pleasing to the eye aircraft.
that is a lovely build of a lovely bird
Paul, this is stunning - well done - a great looking build!
A beautiful job on a lovely aircraft! NMF finishes are my least favorite to attempt, and you've really pulled it off wonderfully - looks like a well-used trainer. I've only built one of these (1/72), but may add more because it's just such a nice-looking jet.
Very well done Sir!