Bf 109 fixed rear canopy section

[Vlad]

Referring specifically to the square frame variants E-4/7, F and G up to -6.

 

I always thought the rear fixed portion of the canopy had a frame at the top going down the centreline, dividing the upper glazing in two. I've now seen several kits, including Tamiya's 1/48 G-6 and Airfix's 1/72 E-4, as well as several builds online of F versions, where this section is represented as a single, continuous piece of glass across the top. But I haven't found any pictures of real aircraft confirming this.

 

Is this a mistake in various kits/builds? Or did some 109s have a frame there and some not?

Edited February 28, 2019 by Vlad

[Max Headroom]

Not an expert but quick googling found these......

 

 

Internal bracing?

https://goo.gl/images/

 

https://goo.gl/images/sTxvZE

 

HTH

 

Trevor

 

 

[Vlad]

I've googled plenty of pictures myself but not sure what you mean. Are you saying the upper glass panel is continuous across the top, and the frame is underneath it?

[bad edd]

I took some pictures at the Belgrade Air force Museum, seems to be a single piece, with an internal bracket:

 

[Vlad]

Aha! So having panel lines for it and painting it on the outside is a kit simplification, albeit probably a necessary one in 1/72. I wonder if it was ever omitted.

[bad edd]

I usually paint it as a normal frame, then i apply a very generous hi gloss coat with a thin brush...in 1/72, it is passable.