For enthusiasts dedicated to crafting authentic World War I aircraft models, achieving true realism often hinges on the finer details. Among these, the propeller stands out as a critical element, demanding meticulous attention. Many modelers grapple with replicating the intricate wood grain and laminated timber appearance of period-accurate airscrews using conventional plastic components. Traditional methods, such as masking techniques or specialized masks like those from RB Productions, offer solutions, yet often fall short of capturing the genuine essence of wood. Enter Proper Plane, a Ukrainian company offering a compelling alternative: meticulously crafted wooden propellers designed to bring unparalleled authenticity to your Mercedes Plane model.
Proper Plane’s Axial wooden propeller is specifically engineered for models utilizing Mercedes 160hp engines and is recommended for a range of renowned World War I aircraft kits, notably those from Wingnut Wings. These include iconic models such as:
- Halberstadt Cl.II (32049 D)
- Albatros D.V/D.Va (32009 A B E / 32015 B E)
- Fokker D.VII (32011 AB / 32027 E / 32030 BE / 32031 ACDE)
- Junkers D.1 (32065 ABCD)
- Pfalz D.XII (32019 C)
- Pfalz D.IIIa (32006 )
- Roland C.II (32026 ABCDE / 32041 ABCD)
and is compatible with other models employing Mercedes 160/180/200 HP engines. Each propeller is hand-carved from maple and pear veneers, showcasing a delicate, in-scale appearance and exceptional balance. The central hub, complete with eight meticulously rendered bolts, is 3D modeled and cast in resin, further enhancing the realism. With a diameter of 87mm, it perfectly matches the kit part dimensions from Wingnut Wings. The propeller boasts a beautiful satin lacquer finish, ensuring a super smooth texture.
The Axial propeller arrives in robust, clear acrylic packaging, ensuring protection against damage. Laser-engraved wooden caps, adorned with the Proper Plane logo and secured with felt discs, seal each end of the tube. Internal foam discs further safeguard the delicate propeller tips and resin hub during transit, highlighting the care taken in delivering this premium component for your Mercedes plane project.
Compared to other wooden propellers on the market, the Proper Plane Axial stands out for its superior craftsmanship. Constructed from eight distinct laminates of alternating colors and fine grain, it authentically replicates the appearance of real-world laminated propellers. The finish is exceptionally smooth, with no discernible grain texture beneath the varnish, achieving a glass-like surface. The incredibly fine edges and tips are precisely rendered and flawlessly smooth to the touch. The shape mirrors the kit plastic parts but with enhanced refinement, offering a noticeable upgrade in visual fidelity for your Mercedes plane model. The propeller’s color is inherently appealing, but modelers seeking a warmer tone can easily apply a light coat of clear orange or yellow acrylic.
The propeller hub features pre-drilled indentations, facilitating the precise alignment of the resin bolt details on both the front and back, simplifying the assembly process and ensuring accurate detailing on your Mercedes plane.
The front and rear hub components are cast in light grey resin and are attached to a small casting block. Careful removal with a fine razor saw is recommended. The resin casting quality is exceptional, exhibiting crisp and sharp details that will significantly enhance the realism of your Mercedes plane model’s engine.
In Conclusion
The Proper Plane Axial wooden propeller represents a straightforward yet impactful upgrade for any modeler seeking to elevate the realism of their WWI aircraft, particularly Mercedes plane models. It overcomes the challenges of simulating wood grain finishes and delivers a tangible improvement in authenticity. Given its exceptional quality, the price point is remarkably reasonable, making it an accessible upgrade for enthusiasts of all skill levels. Explore the Proper Plane website to discover their extensive range of wooden airscrews designed for various Wingnut Wings model kits and take your Mercedes plane project to the next level.
My sincere thanks to Proper Plane for providing the sample reviewed in this article. To purchase directly, please visit the link provided.
