Update: Eduard 1/72 "Flyboys" Nieuport 17 By Matt Bittner

Introduction

Way back in December 2006, I decided to try and build the then new Eduard 1/72nd Nieuport 17 as quickly as possible. I was able to do so, but only with leaving some of the final touches off. I now pick up where that article left off. (See? I build at glacial speed. This should have been finished months ago <sigh>.)

Construction

As I previously mentioned, I just can't bring myself to finish a Nieuport 17 in ficticious markings so had to settle upon a "real" machine, and opted for one that actually flew with the Lafayette Escadrille. I settled on N1950, which at its later point in live was flown by Genet. The extra modeling burden was the overwing Lewis. I had the Lewis from the "Flyboys" kit, but didn't have the correct mount for it. Eduard comes to the rescue with a photoetch one from their recent "Dual Combo" release (a First Look of can be found in this issue).

The rudder serial decals came from an Americal/Gryphon sheet while the 'N' and weights table came from the Eduard kit. The rudder was repainted, since I botched the decals, but I'm not 100% satisfied with the tone of the blue. Oh well, something to correct with the next kit.

Rigging is .005" stainless steel wire (which can be found at Small Parts) and the final finish includes an oil wash in certain areas along with a "dirtying up" of certain underside areas also with an oil wash.

This is a very nice kit, and now the Dual Combo release is out with photoetch, has become that much better. I have to say again, Thank You Eduard! This is an awesome release and one most of us have been waiting for, for quite a long time. (Well, maybe not a certain List Grouch, but that's his problem...)

Kit courtesy of Eduard.