Master Models once again provides IPMS USA with examples of machine-shop excellence… We are extremely thankful to Piotr for providing examples of his work to review, and I appreciate the opportunity to use and report on Master Model products via the Leaders of IPMS USA

The Airfix TSR.2 was one of the last models to come out of the Airfix stable back in the late 2000-2005 year group, before Hornby took over and totally restarted their lineup. I bought the kit as it was (1) the only 1/48 non-Vacform version of this aircraft, and (2) thought I could have a great time building it. I also invested in CMK resin to bring it up to a higher level of detail.

What a masochist I am.

Needless to say, after four years and three trips to the shelf of doom, I finally said to heck with it and finished the model. It has the SAC metal gear (and needed it because of the weight of all the resin) and is actually a survivor of many attempts to be destroyed. The one thing that did not survive was the plastic pitot tube. The kit is VERY long, and I did not use a needle to represent it, as usually is my wont…

Enter Master Model! The machined metal pitot tube is a simple drill and install effort. And the nose has a hole in it to simulate the real tube being hollow! I don’ t know how it’s done, but it is…

First, I must comment that Piotr’s company does something many others don’t; he includes a detailed instruction sheet with dimensions and details on what needs to be done to install the parts he produces. Others could emulate, but this makes his products that much more of a standout from the crowd. GOAL!

On to the review: This was about as simple as a repair and upgrade could be. Sand the nose flat (the actual aircraft may or may not have a blended fairing, I can’t find decent pictures), but the instructions have you install the probe in the center of a flat surface. Nirvana, not having to drill a hole at the end of a sharp cone! I found an appropriate drill bit, and carefully drilled away, carefully testing as I went to make sure I was not off center, and the brass tube had a reasonably tight fit.

I also know God and his angels guided my hand, because the angle of the hole was perfect; on centerline and slightly nose down; not bad for a hand held drill session!. A bit of superglue after test fitting, and we are finished with the installation! I used a sharpie silver pen to color the brass, and have found a VERY high shelf to put this dart up away from my eyes and little kids hands.

And my TSR.2 looks right again…

A simple addition, earning the usual full 10 rating for metal machinework excellence; thanks To Master models once again for producing another fantastic pitot tube, and to IPMS USA for passing it on to me for review!