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Not totally historically accurate but I think a fairly good Kiwi-esque model based on F4U-1A RNZAF Solomons 1945 F4-U 1/48 Tamiya. Sky Models Decals (I found he decal sheet short on a few details) Well known and recommended kit. Got to practice some new techniques. Got some funny looks buying hairspray 😆 I wanted the multi tone paint, based on #307, had decals for #77

Chance Vought F4-U detail Sets Eduard 1:32 The Tamiya 1:32 Corsair in a beautiful model straight out of the box with perhaps the only real area that needing attention being the magnetos on the crank case. Eduard obviously feels differently as they have released a raft of update sets for it, seven in fact if you include the zoom set. Each set are in the usual poly sleeve packaging with a card insert to prevent damage, and the instructions still leave a lot to be desired. Typically some of the kit details need to be removed before the brass parts can be added. Interior Set (32781) Contained on two sheets of relief etched brass, the larger one is unpainted whereas the smaller one is not only pre-painted but self adhesive as well. The unpainted sheet contains items such as the rudder pedal heel and toe plates, rudder cable attachments, side console inside faces, document pockets and additional fittings not included in the kit. On the engine bulkhead there is a pair of new cable runs and pipes, whilst the foot rests/”floor” troughs are fitted with more detailed bulkhead fittings complete with lightening holes. There are a large number of instrument boxes fitted around the cockpit, on the side consoles, coaming and side walls onto which the pre-painted faces are attached. The instrument panels are also pre-painted complete with the instrument faces on the backplate. A little dab of aqua clear will give them the appearance of glass fronts. The fire extinguisher and oxygen bottles receive new straps and supports and the canopy is fitted with new frames fore and aft and latching handle. Interior Zoom Set (33126) 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. Engine Set (32343) To really enhance the details on the kits engine this set provides a wealth of additional and finer parts for the job. Quite a few areas need to be cut away before the etched parts can be added, particularly around the cowling mounting bulkhead between the cylinder banks. Holes need to be drilled into the cylinder banks ready to accept the new wiring harness which is pretty complex and care will be needed as whilst the instruction diagram is better than usual, it could have been clearer. The exhaust manifold receives new flanges and jubilee style clips. Another complex area of the build is the fitting of the individual cowl flaps and cowl flap ring. Each cowl flap is fitted with a three piece etched actuator which will need a very steady hand to assemble and fit. The front cowl mounting ring is also provided as are the interior rib detail for each of the opening cowling panels. Exterior (32344) This single sheet set contains some very nice additional detail for the exterior and open areas of the kit. There are quite a few parts dedicated to the interior of the tailwheel bay, especially on the mounting bulkhead which has new mounting fixtures and fittings for the tail oleo, whilst the foreward bulkhead is fitted with new fittings which include the rudder cable arm and mounting bracket. The tailwheel bay doors are fitted with new hinges panels and attachment links. The main wheel bays also get a dose of additional detail with the fitting of new panels around the bay walls and roof along with additional cabling and pipe work. If you’re building the model with wings folded then you have the option of adding new end plates to the flaps and ailerons along with replacement brackets and web pieces. The wing fold areas have a host of new hoses and pipework fitted which will really make the areas look not only more accurate but busy. Placards (32795) This small single sheet set contains much of what is already on the interior sets pre-painted sheet and naturally the zoom set, which is rather annoying to be honest. There are a few parts different that the modeller could use in the cockpit, but not nearly enough to make this set worth being separate to the interior sets. Seatbelts (32784), and (32791) The first of these two sets is made completely from etched brass, pre-painted for the most part, but with unpainted clasps, buckles etc. The second has the etched seatbelts replaced with fabric ones, which really do look nice and may sit better on the seat. Either will look good even though they look quite fiddly to assemble. Conclusion Eduard do produce a very nice selection of sets here, although I do feel that they are taking the mickey a little with the placard set in that is does really add anything that are already included in the interior/zoom sets. The seat belt question also needs to be asked, why isn’t the brass set at least included in the interior set? That said they do what they do very well and the selection does give the modeller a choice on how far they want to go with detailing. So I can still recommend them, but be aware of what’s included. Review sample courtesy of