Eduard Junkers JU-87A detail sets. 1:32 for Trumpeter

[Shar2]

Junkers JU-87A detail sets

Eduard 1:32

Trumpeter have released a couple of Ju-87s in the past, but it was good to see an early A version getting the 1:32 treatment. Apparently the kit itself is pretty good with some really nice detail straight out of the box. But, as is their way, Eduard have found areas that could do with even more detail with the release of these recently released sets.

Detail Set (32832)
The parts are contained on two sheets of relief etched brass of roughly equal size, with one being unpainted and the other not only pre-painted but self adhesive as well. The unpainted sheet contains items such as the rudder pedal plates, side console lower pipe covers, oxygen filter perforated cases, document pockets, rear machine gun perforated barrel sleeve, ammunition drum handles, radiator grille screens, pilots gas mask container and mounting bracket, joystick cable and additional fittings not included in the kit. The pre-painted sheet contains the instrument panels complete with the instrument faces on the backplate. A little dab of aqua clear will give them the appearance of glass fronts. The sheet also contains the myriad of colour levers, knobs, auxiliary instrument clusters, new throttle quadrant, switch clusters, trim wheels, gun sight fittings and radio face panels.

Interior Zoom Set (33145)
This zoom set contains only the above pre-painted sheet and allows the modeller to build a well detailed cockpit without the hassle of getting bogged down with detail that might otherwise be deemed superfluous.

Seatbelts (32833)
This small single sheet set contains a complete and comprehensive set of seat belts, buckles and clasps for both the pilot and radio operator/rear gunner. The belts look like they will be rather fiddly to assemble, but will look great when fitted. The gunners seat also receives a new cushion pad top. Although the cushion needs to be sourced by the modeller out of 1.0mm plasticard, and the flexible back rest. The seat belts are pre-painted so no need for some fiddly painting, just a slightly darker wash to tone them down a bit.

Masks (JX178)
To complement the sets mentioned above, Eduard have also released a set of paint masks for the Ju-87A, which helps masking the clear areas a whole lot easier particularly as there is a quite a lot of framing on the Stuka.

Conclusion
There’s rarely a kit release without an Eduard set or two being designed for it, they are becoming so prolific. Whilst not as comprehensive as some of the previous releases, (perhaps Trumpeter got it right and didn’t need as much), they will add that extra level of detail sought by some modellers. It still disappointing that they chose to release the seatbelt set separate from what is basically an interior set, but I guess it gives modeller more choice on how much they want to add. The masks will probably be most useful though. Highly recommended.

Review sample courtesy of