Siemens Schuckert D.III
for Roden kit

Brengun, 1/32 scale

Reviewed by Rob Baumgartner

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The Siemens Schuckert D.III is a popular subject amongst WWI aviation enthusiasts.

Sadly it wasn’t produced in large numbers and only saw limited frontline service. This is despite the fact that it was one of the fastest climbing fighters of its time and possessed good maneuverability. Its spectacular performance was due to the 160hp Siemens-Halske Sh.III rotary engine.  

Unfortunately castor oil of the wrong viscosity was used, thanks to incorrectly labelled barrels. That led to seized and disintegrating pistons which saw the fighters being returned to the factory for engine replacement. The opportunity was also taken to make a number airframe modifications.

These delays saw other types take preference at the Front and the D.III found itself relegated to home defense squadrons.

Roden released a 1:32 scale example of the SSW D.III and although well molded, it contained some significant anomalies.

Brengun have released a set of photo etched parts to allow the modeller to correct some of the issues and also provide a bit of extra detail. There are 160 items on the fret, many that will require some very careful handling.

The cockpit is the first area to be addressed due to Roden’s omission of the bulkhead behind the seat, and some of the wooden framework. These are catered for by the p-e items, but will obviously need thickening with plastic card to remove the two-dimensional appearance.

Brackets help detail the tail skid and a new perforated seat replaces the solid plastic equivalent.

The various engine cowls come in for a bit of treatment, but these could be problematical without modification.  The instructions call for the vents to be pushed out but bending the cowl with these added protrusions will test the laws of physics.

The access panels on the Roden kit are a poor representation of the originals. Examples with a more accurate outline are on the Brengun fret but check your references to make sure you select the right style.

For rigging purposes, there are stalked eyelets that are designed to be inserted into opposite ends of a suitable piece of tubing. This is to simulate the turnbuckles and may need a layer or two of paint to improve their thickness for added realism.

This set of parts will allow the modeller to fix some of the inherent problems that can be found with the Roden kit.

Those having had some experience with the type will be happy with the instruction sheet. Others however may require some additional references.

Applying the various items of p-e is well within the skills of most modellers. The only issue will be retaining the integrity of the “pushed out” vents when bending the engine cowls to match the fuselage.

In summary, this is a welcome set for the SSW D.III and will do much to improve the accuracy of Roden’s 1:32 scale release.

Thanks to Brengun Models for the review sample.

Review Text and Images Copyright © 2014 by Rob Baugartner
Page Created 10 April, 2014
Last updated 10 April, 2014

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