A new set of 3D printed F-16 Fighting Falcon landing gear in 1/48^th scale is provided by Detail & Wonder Studios for the Tamiya kit. This is a drop-in replacement for the Tamiya kit.

Note: There is no official website for Detail & Wonder Studios, but a Facebook page is available.

In the Package and Product Notes

The sample review I received came in a small black box with tape stating “Test Set.” However, I did find on their Facebook page a box with the printed label.

There are four (4) 3D printed parts, three (3) resin poured wheels, and bag containing a metal rod and tube. A bonus is an attractive photo etched metal placard for your F-16 to add to its base if so desired.

The printed resolution of the landing gear is incredible. There is a lot of amazing and tiny detail throughout the entire 3D print and some careful painting and contrast weathering will make them pop.

Review Process

I started with separating the tires from the pour stubs by using a razor saw. This was followed by a bath of warm water and soap to remove any mold release agent and resin dust.

Removal of the 3D parts starts with cutting it away from the frame and supports using side-cutting nippers. Next, careful removal of the support nubs from the surface using the nippers and a hobby knife. Much patience and a soft touch is needed due to the delicate nature of some of the supports connecting to the hydraulic lines and electrical harnesses.

The metal pin and tube are for the forward landing gear as an insert to give it some strength. To keep it together, the oleo is a snap-fit on the lower support and will captivate the pin and tube.

I went straight to painting using Tamiya Flat White (XF-2) since I did not want to add an extra layer of primer which may cover up some of the detail. After that, I used water-based acrylics to add color to the finer detail. This was followed by a pin wash mixture of Future-water-Vallejo Black.

Conclusions

This is great 3D printed set to take your F-16 Tamiya landing gear to the next level of detail and will impress those who give it the “eagle eye inspection” when displayed.

I want to thank Warspite Model Company and Detail & Wonder Studios for providing the 3D printed set and IPMS/USA for allowing me the opportunity to review.

Highly Recommend to everyone who wants to add more detail to their F-16 Fighting Falcon!