Start of a build of a kit from a new to me company Valom from the Czech Republic. Its a short run low pressure injection moulded kit which I think means the moulds are made from a metal other than the tool steel used by the big companies. I have never built a short run kit before and I admit I was a bit worried about what I would get in the box but with the encouragement of a few other modellers particulary General Melchett I took the plunge and ordered from Oxonian Plastics.
IMG_20191207_150202911 by Stuart, on Flickr
When I opened the box I was pleasantly surprised there is not a lot of flash and a quick measure up showed the fuselage and wing sections are almost an exact match that wont take much filing and fitting. The engine castings are resin mouldings and are a lovely model of the original Bristol Peggy engines.
IMG_20191207_150104996 by Stuart, on Flickr
IMG_20191208_200037757 by Stuart, on Flickr
I am not bothered by cockpit detail I will never see again so its just the bare basics
IMG_20191208_200109689 by Stuart, on Flickr
I decided to add push-rod tubes made from 0.45 brass wire, one of those little jobs you begin to regret about an hour in.
IMG_20191211_164021687 by Stuart, on Flickr
I decided to have a break from tiny bits and cut out the fuselage window holes fitted to the Sparrow and fit the glazing. The fuselage moulding is pretty thick and the plastic is a soft grade that doesnt cut very easily cutting the slots took a lot of time and the glazing was a bit crap.
IMG_20191211_164040932 by Stuart, on Flickr