The Item

If you want to bring your 1:48 scale Gnat T.1 XP505 variant model kit to the next level, this excellent white metal cast detail set is just the thing for you. This 3-piece complete probe set not only provides sturdy, fully detailed parts, but they are specifically designed to fit the ICM models kit.

Remove the parts from the casting stubs so as to avoid bending them. As with other SAC sets, there are minimal casting seams on the parts that will need to be removed. Simple scraping, filing, or sanding makes for easy clean-up. After removal from the casting stubs, the parts can be carefully polished with a rotary tool brush, then primed and painted. Because of their malleable nature the parts can be gently bent for a proper profile and perfect fit.

*NOTE: S&M Models produces a decal sheet which contains markings for the test aircraft XP505 which was fitted with these unique test probes. are required for authenticity.

All-in-all this set will definitely enhance the appearance of your Gnat T.1 XP505 model.

The Subject

The Gnat T.1 XP505 was a British subsonic jet trainer aircraft that was developed in the 1950s by Folland Aircraft. It was designed to provide pilots with a platform for training in advanced flying techniques, including aerobatics, instrument flying, and air-to-air combat.

The Gnat T.1 was powered by a single Bristol Siddeley Orpheus turbojet engine, which gave it a top speed of around 1,050 km/h (652 mph) and a service ceiling of around 13,000 meters (42,000 feet). The aircraft was armed with two 7.62 mm machine guns and could carry a variety of bombs, rockets, and missiles for use in training exercises.

The Gnat T.1 was a popular trainer aircraft with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and other air forces around the world, including those of India, Finland, and Yugoslavia. It was also used in a number of military conflicts, including the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

Today, the Gnat T.1 XP505 is preserved as a museum exhibit at the RAF Museum in Cosford, England. It is one of only a few surviving examples of the Gnat T.1, and is an important part of the history of British military aviation.

Thanks go to Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) for providing this set to review and to IPMS USA for allowing me to review it for them.