Receiving the invitation from our friend Colin @coling to participate in this great helicopter group build, I was challenged to start my first ever aircraft with a propellor on top instead of the front of the aircraft.

I didn't have to check my stash because I knew that there was absolutely no helicopter waiting to be build.

To still being able to participate and having my birthday coming closer, I decided to buy myself an early present.

To remain in the era of WWII, I ordered the Doblhoff WNF342 in 1/48 scale.

The kit seems pretty simple by looking at the instructions, but let's see.

Boxart as shown below.

Expected delivery time is next week Wednesday.

Will keep you guys informed when I receive my early present.

Thank you for your unique contribution to our HeloGB, John. I had never heard of this type before I read about your idea for this build. I have since done a bit of on-line background reading. I don't want to go into detail about the technical facts behind this remarkable machine since you may want to do this yourself in your GB or Headlines article. Suffice it to say it was totally innovative and in its propulsion system and the precursor of a number of similar successful designs.

Looking forward to your build.

The Doblhoff arrived

Earlier than expected the Doblhoff arrived yesterday, two weeks prior to my birthday. What more to wish. I was however surprised by the dimensions of the package they delivered. Even the postal package was small and opening it revealed an even smaller box. Dimensions of the box are 20cm x 13cm x 3.5cm, at first I thought it was the 1:72 variant, but it definitely is the 1:48 kit. Boxart is really nice.

Inside the box there is one bag of plastic.

Instructions are very clear and nicely printed in color. Scheme choice this time is pretty simple, overal green.

Within the large bag, besides the instructions, two gray sprues and a smaller bag are present. The smaller bag contains a clear sprue, decals, photo etch and masks. Sprues parts are 71 in total, most of them are really small. Although the box is small, this is a very complete kit.

The parts do contain a bit of flash but I don't think this will be an issue. Photo etch seems a little affected (corroded) but that should be easy to clean. All in all the kit is extremely complete and provided parts look nice. Now I need to get approval from my family to start with it before my birthday 😉

John, nice pick. A very interesting subject, looking forward on your build progress. This will look nice when done.

RLM02 is clearly visible, my friend @johnb.
And looking great, as well!
Nice start!

Pretty cool, IP, my friend @johnb!
Nice to see you are working with your Doblhoff again!

Flash
This kit consists of tiny and fragile parts.
Unfortunately these parts also contain quite some flash and because of the fragility, difficult to remove.
Nerves will be tested once again.

Steady!