Clear Prop 1/72 I-16 Type 5 Accessories
By Matt Bittner
Overview
The Clear Prop I-16 Type 5 is truly a stunning model. Out of the box it will make an excellent rendition of the dimunitive fighter. However, to cater to those who "want more", Clear Prop has released a number of accessories to enhance their already great model.
72064 Brass Pitot Tube
An excellent addition to the I-16 is this brass pitot tube. Not only does it make the model look "closer to scale", but there's little risk to breaking it off should you knock into it.
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72074 Painting Masks
Painting masks are a common solution these days for nice, clean canopy lines, so we can expect that with this set. In addition, the I-16 had small "port holes" in the upper fuselage near the cockpit so light could illuminate the instrument panel. Clear Prop provides masks for these as well, both inside and outside. Also, the I-16 had small windows in the landing gear well so the pilot could tell when the landing gear was raised or lowered. Again, both interior and exterior masks are provided for these small windows. Finally, Clear Prop provides tire masks for both types of wheels the kit contains.
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72084 Etched Brass Set
For those that want to take their I-16 to a more detailed level, this set of photoetch will do that. Provided is a multi-piece instrument panel that uses the kit-supplied decals for the instruments. The set includes numerous items for the cockpit sidewalls including a throttle, etc. Staying with the interior, there are seat belts, a new armored seat back, triggers for the control stick, more detailed rudder pedals, and details for the gun sight. For the exterior there are pieces to add to the gun-sight tube, bezels around the instrument panel "windows", a replacement cockpit door and lots of small details to add to the built model. Plenty of detail to have your I-16 coming out looking stunning.
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Conclusion
For those wanting to take their Clear Prop I-16 Type 5 to the next level, these sets are a great addition to a build. Since they’re done by Clear Prop as well, you have guarantees that they will fit the kit. My thanks to Clear Prop for the review samples.