1/48 Hobbycraft Messerschmitt BF 109C-1

Gallery Article by Eric Hargett on Apr 1 2020

 

      

This kit represents Messerschmitt BF 109C-1 'N+8' with the 10(N)/JG 77 wing based at Aalborg, Denmark in 1940.

This is an 'enhanced' version of the old 1/48 Hobbycraft BF 109C kit. I used spare parts from the 1/48 Classic Airframes Early BF-109 kit, resin cast parts from the same kit and added an aftermarket cockpit. Specific enhancements are described below.

Click on images below to see larger images

  • 2-bladed variable pitch propeller and spinner (spare parts from CA Early BF 109 kit)

  • Correct upper engine cowl (spare part from CA Early BF 109A kit) and scratchbuilt exhaust ports

  • Correct oil cooler (resin cast from CA Early BF 109 kit part)

  • Lower engine cowl, radiator and housing (resin casts from CA Early BF 109 kit parts)

  • Metal wire to replicate the 'v' supports within the radiator housing

  • Correct tail wheel with the oleo scissor

  • Squadron vac-u-form canopy for BF 109B/E

  • Aires BF 109E-3 cockpit (4479) modified for the BF 109C

  • Metal wire for brake lines

  • Fishing tippet for antenna

  • Decals from my spares box

Painting was completed using various shades and tints of RLM 71 and RLM 02 over RLM 65. Raw umber oil filters and pin washes along with various gray pastels were used for weathering. Weathering was kept to a minimum since the 'C' model had a generally limited service life. Only 58 BF 109C's were built which were quickly replaced in the field with 'D' or 'E' models.

...and that completes my collection of 'Jumo engine' BF-109's, now on to the 'E' variants.

Enjoy!

Eric Hargett

Photos and text © by Eric Hargett