Halberd Models F-35A/B Lightning II Wheel Set (3231) 1:32

[Mike]

F-35A/B Lightning II Wheel Set (3231)

1:32 Halberd Models

 

 

Halberd Models’ recent flexible resin tyre sets require a slightly different method of construction to standard resin wheels, so I’ll refer you back to my initial review in 2019 here, which explains the process and design ethos in more detail.  It also has a link to a video that shows the process fully, so if you’re unsure about how to use flexible resin tyres it’s worth a read.

 

The assemblies are a drop-in replacement for the kit parts, so they should glue straight onto the landing gear axles, but it's always wise to test and adjust as necessary, as you'll be using either epoxy or super-glue to attach them because resin doesn't adhere with styrene glue.  The tyres will deform slightly under weight, just enough to give them a more realistic look, but not so much that they'll look in dire need of more air before the next mission.

 

 

This set is designed for the Italeri kit, which has been about since 2017 in a couple of boxings.  Arriving in the by now familiar box, there are eight resin hub parts on three casting blocks, plus three tyres – two main and one nose wheel.

 

Construction involves liberating the resin from their undercut base either with a razor saw or motor tool, then cutting the spoked centres out of the tyres and smoothing the inner face with a burr chucked into a motor tool.  Each main wheel has a thick rear part with brake-detail insert added inside the rim and a front hub face, while the nose wheel has two hub parts as you’d expect.  They’re best glued with super glue (CA), and the wheels can be painted with latex based acrylic paints if necessary.

 

Detail is excellent both on the hubs and tyres, and with sympathetic painting they should far outstrip that of the kit parts.

 

Highly recommended.

 

They’re currently being sold direct to customers via their Facebook page and through their distributors worldwide.

 

Review sample courtesy of