P-51D Etch for the Hobby Boss Easy Assembly Kit in 1:48 by Eduard

[woody37]

P-51D Self Adhesive Pre-Painted Etch for the hobby Boss Easy Assembly Kit

1:48 Eduard

 

 

 

The 1/48 Easy Assembly series of US built fighters are well thought out kits that not only provide a simple introduction to modelling, but with fine surface detail, have the ability to look rather good when complete. With this set from Eduard, beginners or people who haven’t dipped into the world of etch detailing can evolve their skills further. Cockpit detailing is noticeably simplified in the P-51 kit, but it doesn’t have to be now...

 

P-51D S.A Etch Set 49603

Here you get a single fret of pre-painted Self Adhesive Etch that is designed to inject life and detail into your P-51, mainly, but not exclusively the cockpit area. Sidewall detail is absent in the kit, so the main features on the fret are beautifully detailed side panels that simply push into place, no paint, no glue. Several refinements are included for the seat and rear armour, most noticeably the seatbelts which are exquisitely done. A small amount of cutting is required to remove some parts prior to fitment of the seat refinements, so a modelling knife will make this a lot easier. Several additional details including throttles are to be fitted to the sidewalls giving a great 3D finish. The front panel simply fits over the existing part, however the centre console requires the detail to be removed so that the etch replacements including gunsight can be attached. There are some delicate parts, so as well as a modelling knife, a good set of fine tweezers will make your life much easier.

 

Externally, the radiator gets a nice etch cooling matrix and the main gear is treated to some replacement Oleo scissors and door brackets. The drop tanks and rear view mirror get some additional detail and actuators for the aileron trim tabs are included too.

 

 

 

 

 

Conclusion

This is a great set to take a basic but pleasant kit to a new level. There are some delicate parts, so care will need to be taken, but it’s simple enough for a person who hasn’t used etch before to get good results. Whether the concept of using etch aftermarket on such a kit will prove to popular will remain to be seen, however with this detail in the cockpit, you may want to source a vac formed canopy too so that you can have it in the open position to show your work off !

 

Review sample courtesy of