1/72 Soviet passenger plane "Stal-7"

[Dave T]

I am planning to carve a 1930s Soviet aircraft Stal-7 (pronounced like steel) designed by the Italian engineer and émigré Roberto Bartini. There are very few photos of the aircraft, but it was a high performing design for the period.

[buccfan]

Looking forward to the build progress, regards Paul J.

[lastvautour]

Inverted gull wings. Looking forward to it.

Lou

[Dave T]

Cut out and began shaping the fuselage. The first version of the Stal-7 has oddly shaped inverted front windows.

[lastvautour]

Taking good shape.

Lou

[Dave T]

Made adjustments to the contours.
Started a stabilizer from 1/8" basswood sheet.
Cut blanks for the wings.

[lastvautour]

Good progress. Keep those photos coming.

Lou

[Dave T]

Tapered the wings, but not contoured yet.
Nacelle blocks started.

[lastvautour]

I like to see these type of progress shots.

Lou

[Dave T]

Hollowed out the fuselage for the wings. I used a small gouge to remove most of it and finally a Dremel tool.
Shaped the wing roots and joined them together. Each one is bevelled 15 degrees.
Started shaping the airfoil on the outer wing panels.

[Dave T]

Dry fitting the wings.

[lastvautour]

Looking great.

Lou

[buccfan]

Impressive workmanship Dave, looks great, regards Paul J.

[Dave T]

Glued the wings on.
Worked on how the get the nacelles to fit over that bend in the wing.

[lastvautour]

Thanks for the progress shots.

Lou