I would like to thank Master Model for this review sample.

Master Model has been literally “turning” out numerous metal details for the model maker. This latest offering is the Alpha Probe and angle of attack probe for the F-14 in 1/48. The alpha probe is the pitot at the forward end of the radome. For a model this is a very vulnerable place and no doubt, like me, you have managed to bend or snap off the plastic one provided in the kit. Quite frankly, they never look as crisp as the real thing and once the mold seam is removed can be a bit oblong in cross section. The angle of attack probe is the pointy short probe on the left side of the F-14 below and forward of the cockpit. On the Hasegawa kit it is molded with the fuselage. I managed to snap mine off while assembling the model. It is not an easy thing to replicate.

So I applaud Master Model for this probe set; such a tiny detail that makes a big difference. These details are turned in brass and are quite sharp and crisp. The angle of attack probe is quite small and requires extra care not to feed it to the carpet monster. The nose probe is a drop in fit on the Hasegawa kit. The angle of attack probe requires a little effort; the old one must be cut off and a hole drilled to accept the new one. The instructions are quite clear. Just be careful not to push it through into the fuselage. Mine installed without issue.

Unfortunately the real probes are silver in appearance and these are brass. I tried to coat them with Model Master Metalize buff-able aluminum, but the metallic buffed right off. Ideally, these would be turned out of stainless steel for that reason, but stainless steel is harder to work and more expensive.

A great accessory that put the finishing touch on my F-14. Now the nose probe will draw blood, rather than bend!