IsraCast

1/32 Rafael Python 3 AA missiles and rails

Product # IC-32020 for $20

Product Article by Steve Bamford on Mar 1 2011

 

This new resin set from IsraCast includes two 'Python 3' AA Missiles.  The Python 3 is a missile originally developed in 1978 and is from a family of air to air missiles manufactured by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems in Israel.  The Python # is an evolution of the Shafrir 1 and Shafrir 2.  When it came to the Shafrir 3 the name Shafrir was changed to Python.  The Python 3 is also used by China under the name PL-8 AAM.  The Python 3 was used during the 1980's.  This missile is used on a variety of aircraft.

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This resin set includes 24 resin parts as well as a decal sheet for missile markings.  The parts contain crisp and beautifully cast details matching the real missile.  This is a simple set consisting of the following parts for each of the two missiles in this set:

  • 1 resin launch rail 

  • a 3 part missile body

  • 4 resin fins for rear of each missile

  • 4 resin fins for front of each missile

  • decal sheet with stripes and numbers for the missiles

The instructions include text and photos showing the missile from many angles and indicating where the various parts are on the missile.  The instructions also provide painting instructions and decal placement.  

One bit of advice I have regarding the small forward fins....leave the tiny tab attached to the fin.  Then drill a tiny hole in the missile and CA glue the tab of the photo etch fin into the hole you've drilled in the missile body.  This will give you a fairly strong and clean attachment point for these tiny fins.

This is a very cool set and beautifully designed and it will be a fantastic addition to your next jet.

I would like to thank IsraCast for providing me with this review sample.

Steve Bamford

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Photos and text © by Steve Bamford