F-14D Ejection Seat (648471)
1:48 Eduard Brassin
Tamiya's new(ish) F-14D in 1:48 is the current high-water mark for the modeller in quarter scale in terms of quality and finish, but moulded-in detail can always be improved in by resin parts due to their flexible moulds and ability to render the finest of details with deep undercuts. This set does just that for the focal point of almost every F-14D, the cockpit. As usual with Eduard's resin sets, they arrive in the new Brassin cardboard box, with the resin parts bagged inside along with the instructions and another bag full of Photo-Etch (PE) and decals.
The Tomcat is a two seater, and both SJU17A NACES seats (AKA Martin-Baker Mk.14) are supplied in the set with additional resin parts for the canopy breakers, seat cushion, umbilical, and a full set of pre-printed PE seatbelts, pull-handle and leg restraints. The instructions include painting guide with Gunze Mr Color call-outs, and after main painting the stencil decals are applied for the ultimate in realism. The seats are identical, so applying the seatbelts in a slightly different pattern will assist with realism, giving the impression that the crew have just departed for the mess.
Conclusion
The most visible aspect of the cockpit is the seat, so unless you're planning on putting pilots in your model, this is one of the easiest and most effective methods of giving your Tomcat a little extra zing.
Review sample courtesy of