Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) has provided the IPMS reviewer corps with a set of 1/48 scale metal landing gear for Tamiya’s Fairey Swordfish Mk. I/II. These parts are drop-in replacements and provide more robust landing gear, given its metal properties.

In the Package

The metal pieces are packed in a clear blister container with cardboard backing. No instructions are provided.

Comments

The metal landing gear set is used as drop-in replacements for parts G18 (tail wheel), G2 & 3 (interior struts), G11 & 12 (folded wing configuration), and G13 & 14 (extended wing configuration). The metal used is malleable and has some give to allow for any minor bending if it is needed. Also, seam lines will need to be cleaned up prior to painting, just like the plastic kit parts. For paints, I recommend a good lacquer-based primer coat, since this will allow the final color a surface to grab onto when applied. Super Glue (CA) should be used to bond the metal parts to the plastic. Also, it is recommended to remove any paint at the attachment points as this will allow a stronger bond, since there is no paint to break away from the plastic or metal surfaces.

Conclusion

Overall, this is a nice detail set to upgrade Tamiya’s Fairey Swordfish Mk. I/II kit and is highly recommended! These are drop-in replacements which will make your Swordfish more durable with metal landing gear. I want to thank Scale Aircraft Conversions for providing the Swordfish landing gear set and IPMS/USA for allowing me the opportunity to conduct this review.