Jump to content

Search the Community

Showing results for tags 'PE'.

  • Search By Tags

    Type tags separated by commas.
  • Search By Author

Content Type


Calendars

  • Community Calendar
  • Group Builds
  • Model Show Calendar

Forums

  • Forum Functionality & Forum Software Help and Support
    • FAQs
    • Help & Support for Forum Issues
    • New Members
  • Aircraft Modelling
    • Military Aircraft Modelling Discussion by Era
    • Civil Aircraft Modelling Discussion by Era
    • Work in Progress - Aircraft
    • Ready for Inspection - Aircraft
    • Aircraft Related Subjects
  • AFV Modelling (armour, military vehicles & artillery)
    • Armour Discussion by Era
    • Work in Progress - Armour
    • Ready for Inspection - Armour
    • Armour Related Subjects
    • large Scale AFVs (1:16 and above)
  • Maritime Modelling (Ships and subs)
    • Maritime Discussion by era
    • Work in Progress - Maritime
    • Ready for Inspection - Maritime
  • Vehicle Modelling (non-military)
    • Vehicle Discussion
    • Work In Progress - Vehicles
    • Ready For Inspection - Vehicles
  • Science Fiction & RealSpace
    • Science Fiction Discussion
    • RealSpace Discussion
    • Work In Progress - SF & RealSpace
    • Ready for Inspection - SF & RealSpace
  • Figure Modelling
    • Figure Discussion
    • Figure Work In Progress
    • Figure Ready for Inspection
  • Dioramas, Vignettes & Scenery
    • Diorama Chat
    • Work In Progress - Dioramas
    • Ready For Inspection - Dioramas
  • Reviews, News & Walkarounds
    • Reviews
    • Current News
    • Build Articles
    • Tips & Tricks
    • Walkarounds
  • Modelling using 3D Printing
    • 3D Printing Basics
    • 3D Printing Chat
    • 3D Makerspace
  • Modelling
    • Group Builds
    • The Rumourmonger
    • Manufacturer News
    • Other Modelling Genres
    • Britmodeller Yearbooks
    • Tools & Tips
  • General Discussion
    • Chat
    • Shows
    • Photography
    • Members' Wishlists
  • Shops, manufacturers & vendors
    • Aerocraft Models
    • Air-craft.net
    • Amarket Model
    • A.M.U.R. Reaver
    • Atlantic Models
    • Beacon Models
    • BlackMike Models
    • Bring-It!
    • Copper State Models
    • Freightdog Models
    • Hannants
    • fantasy Printshop
    • Fonthill Media
    • HMH Publications
    • Hobby Paint'n'Stuff
    • Hypersonic Models
    • Iliad Design
    • Hobby Colours & Accessories
    • KLP Publishing
    • L'Arsenal 2.0
    • Kingkit
    • MikroMir
    • Model Designs
    • Modellingtools.co.uk
    • Maketar Paint Masks
    • Marmaduke Press Decals
    • Parkes682Decals
    • Paulus Victor Decals
    • Red Roo Models
    • RES/KIT
    • Sovereign Hobbies
    • Special Hobby
    • Test Valley Models
    • Tiger Hobbies
    • Ultimate Modelling Products
    • Videoaviation Italy
    • Wingleader Publications
  • Archive
    • 2007 Group Builds
    • 2008 Group Builds
    • 2009 Group Builds
    • 2010 Group Builds
    • 2011 Group Builds
    • 2012 Group Builds
    • 2013 Group Builds

Find results in...

Find results that contain...


Date Created

  • Start

    End


Last Updated

  • Start

    End


Filter by number of...

Joined

  • Start

    End


Group


AIM


MSN


Website URL


ICQ


Yahoo


Jabber


Skype


Location


Interests

  1. The new set to upgrade "old" 1/48 A-10 models to modern standards and improve overall accuracy of them. The set is shown here on Hobby Boss model. Pics have high level of magnification.
  2. So I have heard and remember the terrible side effects of using superglue with canopies and clear parts. With this in mind can anybody recommend a better way of glueing PE to canopies...I have heard whispers of using gloss varnish and I am sure if the part is light enough it should go fine but wonder has anybody else got a different method?
  3. HMS Devonshire Destroyer Atlantic Models 1:600 Originally released in the 1960’s the last outing for the Airfix HMS Devonshire kit was as part of the Falklands War set, released in 2004. Whilst it is still quite a nice kit, it is certainly showing its age. Lacking in the finesse and sharpness we are used to in this golden age of maritime modelling. Well, Peter Hall, and his Atlantic Models has once again come to the rescue, in the form of a single sheet of etched brass. The set arrives in the standard Atlantic Models envelope with the etched sheet sellotaped to a piece of card for protection. The single sheet measures 147mm x 108mm and contains nearly one hundred and ten parts to add that much needed fine detail to the kit. Aside from a full complement of ships railings, each shaped and sized to fit their specific positions, although some will need to be bent to fit, there are also a full set of flightdeck netting which can be positioned folded or upright. The massive Seaslug missile launcher is one of the most complicated parts of the set, and like its larger 1:350 cousin found in the Atlantic Models kit, this one contains no less than nineteen parts, plus a length of polystyrene rod from the modellers supplies. The Type 965 radar lives up to its nickname of Bedstead and also mimics the 1:350 scale version, with twelve parts required to create that inimitable shape. Some scratchbuilding is still required to bring the kit up to the correct standard of weapons fit and this is particularly shown with the need to build the Corvus chaff launcher enclosures. The set includes a base and two templates for which to shape the 20thou plastic card needed to build the enclosure up. Almost as intensive is the replacement of the kits Seacat launchers which is clearly explained in the instructions and which are further detailed with the four etched Seacat missiles and the launchers guide frames. The two 20mm Oerlikons are also provided along with the Corvus launchers. The foremast is fully detailed, with a complete array of yardarms, platforms, platform railings, Type 277 height finding radar array and aerials, whilst the fore-funnel is also fitted out with a pair of yardarms. The set also includes the davits for the ships boats, quarterdeck mounted paravane crane, a full complement of vertical and inclined ladders, and the skins for the large vents forward of the aft funnel, the bodies of which need to be made up from 1.5mm thick plasticard. The main mast is also given the full treatment with a complete array of yardarms, platforms, and is topped off with the large Type 965 radar assembly. The two Seacat loading cranes will need a pair of crane poles to be scratch built, but the folding hanger door is included, although the kits moulded door will need to be removed first, along with a folding telemetry mast for the hanger roof. The Wessex Mk1 is provided with new main and tail rotors and tail wheel. A nice touch is that Peter has included a set of folded main rotor blades, should you wish to pose the cab in that condition. Conclusion This is yet another winner from Atlantic Models. I know there are many examples of this kit hiding in the stashes of the maritime modeller, mine included. As with the other older kits that Peter Hall is catering for, now is the time to drag them out and get building. Yes, the parts are quite a bit fiddlier than in the larger scale, but it’ll be worth it. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of Peter Hall of
  4. Dassault Mirage III detail Sets Eduard 1:32 Sometimes we receive items for certain kits for which we have no kit to base our thoughts on. This is the case with these sets from Eduard for the Italeri 1/32 Mirage III. From what I can tell from reading reviews, is that it is a very nice kit, but with some soft details in the cockpit and oddball shapes, particularly the brake assemblies on the main wheels. Well the following sets certainly seem to cover at least some of the problem areas, as you will see. Interior Set (32859) Contained on two relatively small sheets of relief etched brass, one is unpainted whilst one comes pre-painted. The unpainted sheet contains lots of new and replacement parts for the seat, including side and front panels, head box panels, linkages, and fittings. The sheet also contains replacement rudder pedals and their links, new lower side panelos for the cockpit tub, and vents for the rear bulkhead. The pre-painted sheet provides the modeller with a variety of coloured knobs and levers, new side console panels, plus replacement dials for the side panels. The main instrument panels are also pre-painted complete with the instrument faces on the backplate. A little dab of aqua clear or similar will give them the appearance of glass fronts. This sheet also has additional details for the seat, with two styles of upper and lower ejection handles, headbox top with flap detail on the parachute cover. The windscreen surround is fitted with two part compass, whilst the side panales have new canopy locks and emergency release handles attached. Exterior Set (32385) The single sheet in this set is quite a bit larger than the previous one, and contains replacement panels that appear to be mostly for the undercarriage bays. Quite a bit of the kits moulded detail needs to be removed before the etched parts can be fitted. All the kit wiring in the main bays has to be removed, before the individual panels are attached and, with the addition of two plastic rods, which the modeller needs to provide the etched wiring loom can be added. The roof of each main undercarriage bay is also given the new panel treatment, both large and small, along with strengthening angle and other fittings. The set also includes new panels of the bay doors, along with new actuator fittings and hinges. Finally there are a number of reinforcing hoops that are fitted into the gun troughs. Seatbelts (32852) This small fret of brass comes pre-painted for the most part, but with unpainted clasps, buckles etc. Whilst very fiddly to make, it will give the cockpit a real visual boost. Rather unusually for Eduard, the instructions for these are rather good and show clearly in which order the various belts need to be fitted, and there are quite a few of them. The set comes complete with leg restraints and a very nicely etched quick release unit for the belts to be attached to. Landing Gear Set (632 076) Rather than being etched brass, this set is actually from the Brassin range, so, naturally it’s all resin. Each of the two main wheels and the nose wheels are only lightly attached to their respective moulding blocks, and the most noticeable attachment is on the underside of the bulged area, so will be easy to clean up and hide. The main wheels have the option of different styles of inner hub to be fitted, each with a different brake assembly. The details are nice a crips with one assembly having quite prominent hose attachments to which to fit your own brake lines. The hubs aren’t the easiest to remove fromt eh moulding block, but you should be ok using a fine saw , before sanding the backs down to thickness before adding them to the wheels. The set also includes a sheet of masks to help with the painting. Masks (JX188) Naturally a set of detail updates wouldn’t be complete without Eduard adding some masks. Made of Kibuki style tape they are easy to use and can help make painting less of a chore. Conclusion Once again Eduard have produced some very nice sets for the big Mirage, yet none of them appear to be that difficult to use, as it’s all pretty basic stuff, with very little folding required and the resin parts are also direct replacements, with only a bit of sanding required. That said I think the seatbelt set is probably the most useful, but the modeller has enough of a choice to add as little or as much as they want. Highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  5. USS Texas Detail Sets 1:350 Eduard It hasn’t taken long for Eduard to release sets for the Trumpeter USS Texas, and whilst they can’t help with the fixing of the major hull errors in the kit, they will be able to add lots of extra that should pull the eyes of the visitor to your club stand or display case away from those areas. As is their way, Eduard have released separate sets that cover certain areas of the ship so that the modeller doesn’t have to buy what they don’t want to detail, which also helps keep models within budgets. Part 1, AA Guns - (53-154). This single sheet set does exactly what it says on the packet, provides lots of extra detail to the ships AA weaponry, Quad 40mm Bofors, single 20mm Oerlikons and the single 5” guns. The kits 40mm’s are completely replaced with etched brass, with the exception of the actual gun barrels. So, that’s a new mounting base, railings, gun mounting, turntable and splinter shield. The 20mm’s are provided with new shield, ammunition drum faces, front and rear, new sights and shoulder harness, along with a new hand wheel. The 5 inchers are also fitted with new sights, plus two gunners seats, the left hand of which incorporates the foot rests/firing pedals. There are enough parts for all the guns in the kit, so be prepareds for some long, fiddly modelling sessions, especially for the Oerlikons as there are forty two of them, along with 12 5” and 8 quad 40’s. Part 2, Railings and Ladders - (53-155). Another self explanatory set, the single sheet includes complete set of main deck railings and a selection of inclined ladders for around the ship. Now whilst these are very nicely done, the instructions are completely inadequate, in that they only show where one ladder is fitted. Ok, it’s easy enough to replace any kit ladders with eh etched ones, but it would have been nice it Eduard had confirmed this. A nice touch is the inclusion of two accommodation ladders, these are quite complex multi part assemblies, but will look great when fitted. Part 3, Superstructure – (53-156). The large single sheet, along with one very small sheet of etched brass contains all the parts required to detail the superstructure of the kit. The parts replace all the AA gun deck mounted splinter shields, both fighting tops and their support frames and hand rails as well as their top mounted radar arrays. Apart from the king posts aqnd their centrally mounted mechanisms, the cranes are completely replaced with brass and come with cable drums and hooks which can have wire added to give them a little more life. The bridge superstructure has additional wire spreaders fitted, as well as vertical ladders, mast platform and railings, whilst C turret is fitted with a replacement catapult, which is a model in its own right and looks fantastic, even in its flattened form. The funnel receives new ladders, hand and foot rails, funnel cap grille, and wire spreaders, and the ships boats are fitted with new gunwhales, rudders, propellers, thwarts, engine covers and cradles. Lastly, both of the ships aircraft are provided with new interior parts, such as the instrument panels, seating and bulkheads for the front cockpit, whilst eh rear cockpit gets, aq new decking, DF loop and machine gun, plus it’s mounting rail. The outside of the aircraft receives replacement struts for the outer floats, access ladder, access steps, bomb racks, engine wiring harness and main float wires and rudder. Part 4, Deck – (53-157). Whilst eh set above provides many of the new splinter shields required for the AA weaponry, this set adds to that with all those that are fitted to the main deck. The kit items will need to be carefully removed and the areas cleaned up, but the brass does give them a more scale thickness than plastic ever can. They will require some careful bending and rolling though, so if you haven’t got the tools required, now’s the time to acquire them. Each splinter shield is also fitted with a variable number of triangular supports, which will also need a steady hand to attach. All the bollards, windlasses are fitted with new top plates, and there are new hawse pipe gratings and hatch covers provided. The main gun turrets are not only fitted with new railings, ladders and the like, but Eduard has even included a tampion for each gun muzzle. The main turret barbettes, particularly B and D are fitted with hand and foot rails, again requiring careful rolling to shape. Conclusion Eduard are very good at getting the most detail into a model ship and these sets will really help set the completed USS Texas off. Whilst I can recommend them to any modeller who has had some experience with etched brass, they certainly are not for the novice, so it might be best to start with something simpler to gain experience before buying these sets. Whether the kit is worth detailing to this extent is entirely up to the modeller but I will probably give it a try someday. Review sample courtesy of
  6. OS2U Kingfisher detail Sets Eduard 1:32 The Kittyhawk Kingfisher, reviewed HERE is a a lovely kit, without any additional aftermarket stuff, but, with Eduard, there’s always room for improvement in any model kit. As such, they have now released three individual sets to adorn the kit with extra and improved detail, along with a set of masks to help with the painting of the greenhouse canopy. As with most sets of this type some of the kit details will need to be removed before the etch can be added. Interior Set (32861) Contained on two sheets of relief etched brass, on half the size again as the other, one is unpainted whilst one comes pre-painted. The unpainted sheet contains items such as replacement equipment trays, and boxes, with the trays having vibration mounts made up of four separate discs. The front cockpit hoop is given a new front face, which comes complete with grab handles and the cockpit decking is also given the etch treatment once the kit details have been removed. The rear mounted machine gun is fitted with new expended shell catcher, cooling jacket, sights, ammunition tank and armoured plates, whilst the gun ring is provided with a new internal rail. The pre-painted sheet provides the modeller with a variety of coloured knobs and levers, new auxiliary instrument panels, trim wheels, plus replacement dials for the side panels for the front cockpit. The main instrument panel is 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. There is also a new document/map case radio faces, equipment fittings, and various straps. External Set (32386) The single long, yet quite narrow sheet contains what appear to be mostly parts to detail the engine, with new wiring harness, fittings for the cylinder heads and new cowling support ring. Yet there are numerous smaller parts on the sheet, some of which will need to be shaped, either by rolling a marble/ball bearing over them to make a dome, of running a ball point pen to enhance look of the strengthening ribs. The domed access panels to the main and auxiliary floats are fitted with individual wing-nuts, the main float also having a replacement rudder provided. The bomb crutches are completely replaced with etched pts and once assembled will really look the business, but care will need to be taken to get them right. The bombs themselves are fitted with replacement box tails, and additional tail fuse detail, along with front and rear arming vanes. The identification lights and landing lights are given new surrounds which have very fine screw detail etched into them. Seatbelts (32862) This small fret of brass comes pre-painted for the most part, but with unpainted clasps, buckles etc. Although the belts are broader than normal it looks like they will still be fiddly to make, yet it will give the cockpits a real boost, so if you buy only one set this should be it. Masks (JX189) Naturally a set of detail updates wouldn’t be complete without Eduard adding some masks. Made of Kibuki style tape they are easy to use and can help make painting less of a chore, especially with the canopy style that the Kingfisher has. Conclusion These sets may not be as comprehensive as some Eduard have produce, perhaps because Kittyhawk go most of the detail on the kit from the beginning. What is provided will certainly enhance the kit, but if you’re money conscious you may want to just go for one or two. Highly recommended Review sample courtesy of
  7. The Zero was my first "fine structure" kit by imcth of Tokyo. These are extraordinary kits, with the aircraft structure in photo-etched stainless steel and engine, undercarriage, weapons, etc in cast white metal. They are VERY different, present interesting challenges and build into superb works of art. I wrote a blog of my build on Tumblr. You can see it here: I am now building imtch's P-51 Mustang and blogging the build here: Blog links removed
  8. HMS Queen Elizabeth Eduard 1:350 The Trumpeter 1:350 HMS Queen Elizabeth has been out for a little while now, and Eduard have only just released some etch for it. Well, I say some, in fact it’s four sets, covering the whole ship. Set one, (53-145), is a single sheet set, which contains a ships worth of railings, some inclined ladders and four accommodation ladders, with the foreward pair being “double” depth, and really quite complicated so will require great care in folding them to shape. Be careful when fitting the railings, as there only appears to be just enough for the kit, with no spare lengths of stock railings if you make a mistake. Sheet two, (53-146) is a slightly larger sheet and contains parts to super detail all of the tertiary anti-aircraft weapons. The 20mm Oerlikons, of which there are seventeen, receive a new gun shield and support, traversing wheel, front and rear sights and the shoulder arms. The twin 20mm mount require a bit of surgery before the etch can be added, by the removal of the gunners seating position which is completely replaced with a carefully folded etched part. The gunner also receives a new seat and gun sight, whilst the two guns are fitted with ammunition cans. For the octuple Pom Pom, the ammunition tanks are removed from the kit part as are a couple of parts from the mount base, which will be used on the new etched base. The gun block is fitted to the etched mounting, which is complete with the gun sights and fitted with the new ammunition tanks, the mount is then glued to the base, along with the railings, mount electrical boxes and other fittings. Sheet three, (53-147), is more of a general purpose set and includes lots of smaller items, such as the watertight doors, vertical ladders, funnel cap grilles, various platforms and walkways, platforms supports, Type 284 radar arrays and mountings, Type 282 radar arrays and mountings, plus Type 281 radar arrays for both the foremast and the mainmast. The set also includes the bridge canvas awning, flag locker, mast yardarms, a new star platform and its associated supports and a new DF aerial and its platform. There are quite a few of the kit parts that need to be modified or removed before any of this etch can be added, so best read the instructions and do the removing first. Sheet four, (53-148), contains the parts for the ships boats and cranes. Each of the cutters receive new gratings, decks, thwarts, seats, oars, rudders and either a tiller or wheel. There are replacement cradles provided for all boats, including the special ones which fit into the larger cutters for small boats to be stacked on them. The motor boats also receive new internal gratings, decks, and varying sizes of cabins and windscreens. The larger of the motor boats also have additional railings and masts and are fitted with either single or twin propeller shafts and rudders. As with the cutters, each boat is sat upon up to three cradles. Both the ships aircraft/boat cranes are completely replaced with etched brass, including the crane mounting structure, winding gear the booms, secondary jibs and hooks. When assembled these cranes will look so much better than the kit parts, even with the etched booms that are included n the kit. Conclusion The Queen Elizabeth is a very nice kit in its own right, even though the hull has some major errors, but these can be alleviated by building the model as a waterline in a seascape. The addition of these etched sets will be the icing on the cake and, with care, can make a good model into a great one. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  9. Hello A new problem: I now need to connect styrene to a moderately waxy plastic (probably PE polyethylene or possibly PP polypropylene - I'm not 100% sure). All my experiments with plastic friendly epoxy glues & CA so far all say "won't work with PP or PE" ! One option would be to insert a couple of metal pins. But even then, aside of going for a good tight push fit, so far I cant find anything to actually bond to PE or PP. Any suggestions? Many thanks P.S. What about this: Starloc's "The 100% UNIVERSAL BONDING PACK" Which claims to bond: "TEFLON, PTFE, DELRIN, PVC, POLYETHYLENE, POLYPROPYLENE, SILICONE" http://www.shop4glue.com/universal-glue-bond-adhesive-repair-pack-metal-all-plastics-ptfe-polyethylene-polypropylene-silicone-81-p.asp The whole site looks extremely dodgy (!) and could well be a scam. But anyone here tried any of their stuff?
  10. I have been procrastinating for months now and have spent more time writing on the forum than doing any modelling and work and family have taken up much of the spare time. It has been easier to veg in front of the computer than the work bench. I vacillated between the many kits. Enough said. I have now received the Aires resin cockpit. I started on the kit cockpit. While the model detail is good, the cockpit seems unfinished compared to the Hasegawa kit. I will be posting photos regularly and look forward to comments, help and criticism
  11. The P51 Mustang is my second "fine structure" kit by imcth of Tokyo, my first being their Mitsubishi Zero. These are extraordinary kits, with the aircraft structure in photo-etched stainless steel and engine, undercarriage, weapons, etc in cast white metal. They are VERY different, present interesting challenges and build into superb works of art. I am writing a blog of my build on Tumblr. You can see it here: blog link removed
  12. HMS Nelson detail Set Mk1 Design 1:200 The release of the big 1:200 HMS Nelson by Trumpeter was a bit of a shock, but a very pleasant one. While the kit is superb out of the box, both in size and detail, but there was bound to be at least one company to take up the challenge of producing a details for it. Just such a company is KA Models within their Mk1 Design brand. The set comes on a large flip top opening box with a sleeve on which a listing of the contents on the front and a picture of the built, but unpainted model, showing off all the brass. Talking of which, there is a LOT of brass. The statistics speak for themselves, twenty sheets of relief etched brass, one of which is pre-painted, seventy turned brass parts, eighteen turned aluminium parts, five wooden deck sections, ten resin parts and seventy centimeters of chain. This set is not to be taken lightly, there is some serious amount of work, and so all those of a nervous disposition should look away now. The Nelson kit is amazing, but with this set youre not going to just take it to the next level, but into the next solar system. Youll be looking at months worth of work, but the effort and amount of detail youll be adding will be so worth it. Being the DX set the instructions might appear to be slightly amusing, along with the duplication of etched sheet idents, but this is due to the fact that it is what Mk1 Design call the basic set, with all the other supplementary sets included. You will need to be careful identifying the correct part from the correct sheet. As with other Mk1 Design instructions it is really a series of photographs showing the location for where each part is fitted, along with more exploded views on each of the sub-assemblies are built up. They are very clear, but it would still be good practice to annotate on the kit instructions where the styrene parts are replaced with etch. That way you dont build something, then discovering it is mostly replaced with brass. There is so much in this set that it is difficult to know where to start describing what you get. So I will just go through the instructions and try to explain whats what. Firstly the masts are assembled. The main mast uses the kit parts to make up the lower tripod and lower platforms, although with new supports. This section is detailed with the addition of three, four part cable wheels for the boat crane boom, which is made up of a turned brass boom, five etched parts for the lower cradle, along with another turned brass part for the locating pin. The boom is finished off with the addition of the cable wheel and hook. The starfish platform is completely made up of PE including the twelve under platform supports, and upper platform railings. The Type 272 radar lantern is assembled from fifteen parts and will need some careful rolling to get to shape. Before the starfish is fitted to the mast, a large turned brass part needs to be attached to the top of the lower mast along with the lower yardarm and its three mast fixings. With the platform and lantern in place the ensign gaff and upper mast are fitted. The upper mast has three yardarms attached up its length and topped out with and another smaller gaff and the Type 279 radar array. The foremast is quite a bit simpler, consisting of the kit lower section onto which the turned brass mid and upper sections with a PE bracket connection the mid and lower sections and a platform separating the mid and upper sections. The platform is fitted with an ensign gaff, whilst both mid and upper sections are fitted with a yardarm. The mast head is topped off with a Type 281 array. The main gun directors are only given a small amount of etch treatment, in the form of new access hatches, ladders, and visor screen. The secondary armament directors receive the same amount to extra detail, whereas the High Angle Control System mounts are fitted with a completely new Type 285 array, with its five dipoles and the PomPom directors receive the Type 282 with their two dipoles. The Type 284 gunnery director is fitted with a more boxy style of radar array to go with the new hatches and access ladders. With the radars and masts assembled, and with most of the hull already painted by this point, the wooden decks are laid. There is no best method for these, its pretty much what suits the modeller, but I would rub down the deck details so that the replacement deck looks to be fitted more naturally. With the wooden focsle, main and quarter deck laid you can start fitting the many new details. From the focsle aft these are the anchor cable deck plates, large deck hatch, main breakwater, (each breakwater is supplied with all their angled supports separately), complete with large deckhouses, boat boom storage, second breakwater, with associated lockers, cable reels, (with resin centres), windlasses, and windlass controls. Alongside A turret there are more boat booms and their cradles, whilst around B turret barbette there is another breakwater, two deck hatches, four new cable reels, new ventilator grilles and two winches. Between B and C turret there are another pair of winches, five deck lockers and four more hatches. All the kit deck lockers and ready use lockers are provided with new doors, some of which can be posed open should you desire as are all the watertight and armoured doors. The set also provides a full complement of inclined and vertical ladders which festoon the superstructure and masts. The funnel is given a lovely interior that only goes down a third of the way from the top, but gives the impression that the ladders and platforms go all the way to the bottom. Outside the funnel is fitted with new vertical ladders, hand and foot rails, new platforms, foghorns and a large slab or armour plate on either side. The ships crane that comes with the kit is completely replaced with an all etched brass item which will look great once it has been fitted with cables which the modeller has to provide. The paravanes are also completely new units, with a turned brass body with etched fittings, cradles, fins and cable cutter. With 01 deck has been fitted with the wooden deck, etched ships cradles and their bases can be fitted. The main bridge structure is fitted with new platforms, aerial supports and the aerials themselves. Each of the ships boats are all detailed with etched brass, and for this some of the kit details need to be removed. The motor boats receive new cabin structures, railings, jack and ensign staffs, and propellers. The cutters and whalers all receive new gratings, thwarts, rudders and oars. Some of the smaller boats are stored on top of larger ones and the cradles for these are provided as well. The davits in which some are kept are given extra detail that included the turned brass boom, etched straps and scramble nets. The various sizes of Carley floats are all given replacement gratings before being fitted into position and fitted with the supporting straps and paddles. The largest selection of both etched and turned brass parts is naturally dedicated to the ships armament. The three main gun turrets are each witted with new etched trunnion mounts, turned alluminium trunnions and turned aluminium barrels. The main openings for each of the guns need to be opened up further, so Mk1 Design have included and brass template to help with this. They all have the various gun hatches, rangefinder hatches, walkways, rear mounted ventilation hatches roof panels and access ladders. The roof of each turret differs depending on what light AA weapons are mounted, so pay careful attention in fitting the right roof to the right turret. The secondary 6 turrets are only lightly detailed, with ladders to the turrets roof, rear mounted hatches and the turned barrels. The high angle 4.7" turrets get quite a bit more, as on top of the turned barrel, each mount is fitted with new trunnion mounts, along with several fittings on each one, elevation cog, electrical boxes, motor faces, ladder rungs of teach side, and sighting hatches, in either open or closed condition. The light AA weapons are well represented in the set and will probably cause most of the swearing and cursing throughout the build. The quad 40mm mounts arent too bad, with the styrene guns replaced with folded etched brass breech units, loading bins and trunnion mounts for each pair of guns. The mountings do actually use the kit parts, but with most of the detail removed. To each mounting the modeller fits, the trunnion bases, rear rails, main splinter shield, elevation guide, two three piece ring sights and, finally, the two pairs of guns. The octuple PomPoms are a different matter, in that almost the whole mounting is made up of etched brass parts, with the exception of the eight turned barrels and modified kit mounting base. In total, each of the six mounts comprises of seventy three individual parts. That should keep you busy for a while, although when finished, if they look anything like the pictures in the instructions, they will be amazing. Oh, and if the PomPoms didnt break you then the single 20mm Oerlikons may. Theyll certainly test yet more of your patience, as each of the sixty three mounts comprises ten parts, which include a turned brass barrel and pedestal, etched splinter shield, gun breech, pedestal ring, pedestal wheel, shoulder bars, sight, ammunition drum and shield/gun frame. The odds and sundries included in this set, and there are perhaps too many to mention, but Ill try, include items like the fabulous looking accommodation ladders, numerous life rings, boat boom Jacobs ladders, searchlight mounts, shields and elevation wheels. You even get five 6 shell and a couple of etched shell barrows, each made up of nine etched parts. Perhaps some of the nicest looking etched parts are those for the flag lockers whose front faces are pre-painted, showing all the signal flags nicely folded in their individual compartments. Of course no set is complete with the ships railings and this set has a full set for all decks, main turrets and platforms. Lastly and by no means least the set provides the ships name in individual letters for each quarter, and also a lovely representation of the ships bell. Conclusion Ive bought Mk1 Design DX sets before, but this one has got to be the best to date. The sheer amount of extra detail and the levels which the detail is taken is just amazing. Yes it is expensive, more than the original kit, but for the amount of work, and therefore modelling pleasure you will get, makes it a pretty good pound/hour rate. You will definitely need a lot of patience and plenty of previous experience with working with etch, resin and turned metals if youre thinking of buying it. Very highly recommended Review sample courtesy of
  13. USS Yorktown Eduard 1:350 It was great to see Merit International release the USS Yorktown earlier this year, but, no matter how great a kit is, Eduard always seem to find something to improve upon. The first two sets for the Yorktown have now been released. The first is for the ships boats and cranes, whilst the second is for the AA weaponry. Both sets are up to the usual standard set by Eduard and as such are full of very small parts, where a good pick-up pencil wouldn’t go amiss. Some of the kit parts need to be modified by the modeller before the etched parts can be fitted. Ships Boats and Cranes, (53140). This two sheet set contains parts for all the ships boats, the two large cranes either side of the aft hanger plus the jib for the main deck mounted crane. Each of the enclosed motor boats is provided with new centre cockpits, complete with the boats wheel, as well as a new prop, rudder, front and rear cabin doors, plus a full boat load of handrails and railings. The open motor cutters are fitted with new thwarts/gunwhales, deck planking, cockpit, engine housing, propeller, rudder, flag staff, bow mounted windlass and rear mounted railings. The larger of the motor cutters also has a fo’c’sle mounted anchor. Each of the carley floats is given a new grating, for which the centre of the floats will need to be carefully removed, and selection of straps and fixings tying them to the ship. The large cranes mounted either side of the rear hanger are completely replaced with new brass ones. Once folded to shape they are each fitted with the two hooks and their cable wheels, rotating base, through which a small piece of styrene rod is mounted. The large platforms atop each crane are provided as they are missing on the kit cranes. The deck mounted crane jib is a complex affair, comprising a three sided box section into which seven ribs are fitted before the missing side of the jib is attached. The jib is then fitted with the two hooks, their cable wheels and finished off with the handrail that is fitted to the top. Whilst the trunk of the crane isn’t replaced, it is detailed with the prominent vertical ladder, top platform, complete with railings, mid section walkway and the associated platform supports. AA Guns, (53141). As the title suggest, this single sheet set is to provide detail for the various AA weaponry found around the ship. The 5” single mounts are fitted with new sights and railings, whilst their mountings receive new three part bases and two ready use lockers for each of the eight guns. The quad 1.1” mounts also receive new sights, sight mount, shields and their supports and gun top plate. Their mountings also receive new bases, but these are single piece items. The twenty four 20mm Oerlikons are each fitted with new shields, shield supports; sights, shoulder harness and ammunition drum face. Conclusion You either love or hate brass etched detail sets, but for me they are almost vital, if you wish to produce as detailed a model as possible. Eduard are pretty much the kings of mainstream maritime etch at the moment and their release schedule seems inexhaustible. These sets will certainly go toward building that museum quality model that we all strive for at one point or another. Who knows how many more sets they will produce for the Yorktown, but I know for sure these won’t be the last. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  14. USS Missouri Detail Sets 1:200 Eduard Fourth in Trumpeters release schedule of famous battleships in 1:200, the USS Missouri kit is one to behold, particularly the size and detail held within the huge box. But as wonderful and detailed the kit is there are always ways to make a model finer and more detailed than even the kit manufacturers thought possible. Naturally Eduard have taken up the baton and released not one, but 10 etched sets for the modeller to bedeck their creation. The sets vary in size and complexity ranging from two to three large sheets down to one small sheet of relief etched brass. Of course the modeller doesnt have to use every set, but can pick and chose which suits their requirements best. Note that before using any of the sets, some of the kits details will need to be removed. Part 1- (53-113) this single sheet set is designed to detail the ships 20mm Oerlikon AA guns and mounts. Each gun receives new shield, shield mount, shield mount cover, gunsight, traversing hand wheel and the correct style of shoulder guards. There are enough parts to detail 58 individual weapons. Part 2 (53-117), this set, containing two quite large sheets of etched brass is designed to detail up to twenty 40mm quad mounts. The kits gun mounting plate needs to be quite heavily modified before you can use the set along with the removal of the twin barrels rear handles. Now, some careful bending is required to produce the curved elevation tracks fitted to each side of the replacement etched foot plate which is attached to the mounting plate. The mounts are then fitted with new railings and operators seats. The guns themselves are fitted with new sights and the whole mount finished off with the new splinter shield. Part 3 (53-118), This smallish sheet contains a surprising number of parts for the ships catapults and aircraft handling crane. Whilst the core of the catapults and crane are assembled from kit parts the rest is constructed from this sheet. The catapults receive new walkways, turntable, additional support brackets, cable wheels, panelling on the underside front, front and rear bulkheads. There are also two new aircraft launch cradles which are complex items in their own right. The crane receives additional internal crossbraces for the main boom new cable wheels, cable, hooks, access ladders and platforms. A couple of parts need to be made up from styrene rod, such as the guide wheel axles and a pair of large bollards that are fitted just aft of the crane on the fantail of the ship. Part 4 (53-119), Contains a selection of thirty eight floater net baskets in six different styles. Each basket comprises of the main netting which needs to be bent and rolled to shape, before the ends can be folded into position. The supports, three per net are then attached before the assembly can be glued into position on the model, for which there are clear diagrams on the reverse of the instructions. Part 5 (53-121), this is one of the larger two sheet sets, containing parts to detail the 40mm gun tubs. Each tub is fitted out with four layer ammunition racks that surround the insides and finished off with an access ladder for the crew to get over the splinter shields. One pair of tubs also receives a new etched floor. Part 6 (53-122), is designed to provide the ships railings for the main deck, although only the stanchions and tightening chain are provided, well, along with the templates for drilling the holes to fit each stanchion. Wire is then fixed to each stanchion ate three heights, although no wire is provided and no instruction on what gauge to use either. This is definitely one for the masochist modeller, but if done correctly will look outstanding. Part 7 (53-123), this is the largest of all the sets with two large sheets and a medium sized sheet. The number of parts contained in this set is quite mind boggling, there seems to be additional or replacement parts for pretty much every part of the superstructure and the attending fixtures and fittings. The large parts include items such as the chain plates on the foredeck with added hawspipe gratings, mast platforms and their associated support structures, plus a replacement breakwater and its supports. The small and very small parts include such items as the vertical ladders, winch details, davit wires, boat boom cranes, which can be posed rigged, complete with Jacobs ladders, or folded away, capstan details, new floorboards for the carley floats and even the handles on the front of the searchlights. The 5 practice loaders are also super detailed with ten parts per unit, such is the level of detail Eduard have gone to. There are also numerous vents and intake grilles fitted around the main superstructure along with cable reels deck house lights, a host of new aerials and a couple of smaller radars. The funnel caps get a complete makeover which really will help with the scale look of these parts. Finally there are additional fittings and replacement parts for all the main and secondary turrets. Part 8 (53-124). Although this set is titled radars, it contains quite a bit more on the single sheet. Of course the main SK-2 radar array is completely replaced and whilst fiddly, even in this scale, it will look amazing when assembled. There are a lot of parts tot eh SK-2 and the assembly is almost like building the real thing, so special care will be required to ensure everything is aligned correctly. Each of the Mk37 gun directors are also given the Eduard treatment with the replacement of the radars with highly detailed Mk12 and Mk22 arrays and their support structures, in addition to new armoured sighting and access doors, ladders and handrails. The main rangefinder housing is provided with new walkways, railings, roof parts and completely new arm extensions which Trumpeter missed off. Part 9 (53-125). This small sheet contains the rungs for the ladders that are fitted to the hull sides. Using the templates provided, the modeller needs to drill 04mm holes in the specified areas before fitting the rungs. Yes it will be awkward and time consuming but the effect will be worth it. Part 10 (53-126). The final set in this extravaganza of detail provides the hull plates that are fitted along the length of both sides of the upper hull and missed off in the kit. Templates are provided for the correct positioning and its just a matter of measuring along the hull every 35mm placing the template and fitting the plates. Conclusion Well, what can I say, there is enough detail within these sets to keep even the most ardent detail nut happy for hours, if not months. The level of additional and replacement detail s quite overwhelming and you will really need your mojo set to high if you wish to add it all, which after all is the point. If, at the end of the build you have retained your sanity then you will have a truly museum standard model and one worthy of any collection. Of course, with the sets being separate you can buy and fit as much or as little as you wish, depending on say experience or time. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  15. Hi all. I have a resin cockpit I am working on which had photo etch instrument panels and a plastic film for the instrument dials. What is the best way to glue these to the resin cockpit? Some of the pe bits and their corresponding dials are tiny. Many thanks in advance. Tom.
  16. Russian T-80B E35-212 and T-80BV E35-213 ET Models 1:35 The number of Russian MBT’s released or due to be released by Trumpeter is quite amazing. To cater for those modellers who just love to add extra detail, ET Models seems to be keeping up with the relentless release schedule with these two sets for the T-80B and T-80BV kits. Contained in the now standard poly sleeve with card header, and with the instructions on the green A4 sheets, the two sets share all but one sheet of etch, along with the resin replacements for the smoke dischargers. As with many of ET sets the modeller is required to remove some of the kits details before using the etched parts. But with these kits there are very few bits that need removal, as it’s mostly adding detail rather taking any away. The build begins with the assembly of the numerous straps and buckles for use around the hull and turret. The support brackets for the snorkel are completely replaced with etched parts along with the restraining straps as are the similar items for the external fuel drums. The infra red lamp to the right of the main gun barrel is fitted with a new lens cover, hinged bracket and support mounts. The turret storage bins and spare ammunition case are completely replaced with super detailed etched items. There are loads of new parts for the barrel of the main gun, such as the retaining rings and strengthening bars that run along the top. Each ring is quite a complex assembly and includes the catches at each end of the ring, each of which has be carefully folded. With the main barrel done, it’s on to the machine gun, which is fitted with new sights front and rear, plus new searchlight details. The most complex part is that of the rear mounted exhaust, which consists of a series of horizontal and vertical louvers which have to be interleaved to form the completed part. The rest of the set is comprised of smaller details, such as the headlamp guards, intake grilles, hinges for the side skirts, clamps and brackets for the headlamps, catches for the towing cleats, grab handles for the turret and engine deck, the multipart aerial mount, onto which the resin aerial base is attached, whilst the resin smoke launchers are fitted in place of the kit items. The T-80BV set also includes the defensive reactive armour boxes, of which there are around 39 consisting of two types. These are either mounted direct, as per the turret roof, or to various types of framework, depending on their positioning. There is also a rather unusual item, which looks like a windscreen for in front of the drivers position, complete with acetate sheet to represent the glass. This item is shown in the build, but not where it’s fitted, so you will need to do some research. T-80B T-80BV Conclusion These two sets are up to the usual standard we’ve come to expect from ET Models. But my goodness they are going to be fiddly in some areas. The usual advice is to take care and take a large slug of patience when folding and bending the parts into shape. At the end though you will have one, or in this case two, very highly detailed T-80 tanks in your collection. Highly recommended Review Sample courtesy of
  17. This is new set intended for 1/48 Academy Hunter. This set suitable for all F and FGA Hunter mods. There are flaps, airbrake, nose wheel hub details in the set. Model flaps are narrower, then should be. The etched flaps have precise dimentions and fix the original parts sizes error. Avail direct from http://amurreaver.m-fix.ru/ and eBay http://www.ebay.com/itm/261595600010
  18. North American T-6G detail Sets Eduard 1:32 With the release of the lovely Kittyhawk 1:32 T-6G, it was only a matter of time before Eduard released some etch for it. The two sets reviewed here, three if you include the Zoom set, are for the Interior, and seatbelts. Interior Set (32810) This set comes on two sheets of etched brass, one, the larger of the two, is unpainted whereas the other one is pre-painted and self adhesive. The unpainted sheet is dominated by the two large panels that are fixed inside the fuselage halves, either side of the cockpit and represent the aircraft structure. The sheet also contains items such as the replacement seats, which have much more detail to them, as well as the individual height adjustment levers, rudder pedal pads, new side console facings, and a new circuit breaker box. As with a lot of Eduards sets, some of the moulded kit detail will need to be removed before the etched parts can be added. With this set it’s mainly removing parts from the cockpit side framework, instrument panels and side console tops. Both instrument panels come in two parts the rear part has the instrument painted on it, whilst the front ahs the bezels. The front panel also has extra instrument on the lower panel added along with the landing gear handle. The rear panel doesn’t have a lower panel, but it does have the gear lever. A little dab of aqua clear, or similar will give them the appearance of glass fronts. With the side console tops fitted, the height beam on the framework is fitted out with new throttles, placards, panels and fuse boxes. The trim wheel beam is also given additional detail in the form of trim wheel locking handle, placards and fuel switches. Interior Zoom Set (33137) This zoom set contains only the above pre-painted sheet and allows the modeller to build a reasonably well detailed cockpit without the hassle of getting bogged down with detail that the modeller might otherwise find superfluous. Seatbelts (32814) This small fret of brass comes pre-painted for the most part, but with unpainted clasps, buckles etc. Whilst fiddly to make, it will give the cockpit a real boost as there aren’t even moulded belts on the kit seat, so if you buy only one set this should be it. Conclusion Whilst the Kittyhawk Texan is nicely detailed, you can never have enough options when wishing to add extra, finer detail, and this is where these sets come in. The added finesse of the etched parts can make the world of a difference on kit in this scale. With careful fitting, the detail seen through the heavily glazed canopy will be most rewarding. Highly recommended Review sample courtesy of
  19. Hi Guys After a bit of advice on which adhesives people use please? I don't mean which CA you use or which poly cement but more which do you use for sticking photo etch or canopys or things to canopys etc. I've seen that there are quite a few, gator glue, some people use future (which to me from reading seems like using gator glue as it's acrylic based. But yeah can you let me know what you use please. Thanks in advance. Ben
  20. US Navy Crew Figures Eduard 1:200 Having produced several crew sets for 1:350 scale ships, Eduard have now released three sets of US Navy crew figures in 1:200 scale. Obviously these are to be used with the already released USS Arizona or USS Missouri or the forthcoming USS Iowa. Each set contains different crewmen:- USN Sailors WWII (53-109) US Deck Crew WWII (53-115) USN Officers WWII (53-116) In each set there is a single sheet of what looks like tinned etched brass on which several rows of figures are attached. Each set is pre-painted, containing around 60 men and are self adhesive, making it a lot easier to produce each crewman. On the fret some of them do look like they’ve been on the jungle juice and doing crazy dances, but they make more sense when you read the instructions which show how they are meant to be posed, whether climbing ladders, leaning against the railings, or rather strangely walking with a stick etc. Unlike the smaller scale, where each man is made up of two halves these crewmen consist of four parts joined together and folded in on themselves, producing a more scale thickness to the torso. The still look a little undernourished and a small blob of PVA may give them a better look, although don’t overdo it, as you wouldn’t want them to look like they’ve eaten all the pies. This, of course, would mean that they would need to be repainted, but at least they are big enough to see what you’re doing. Conclusion Once again Eduard have released an interesting set of figures to man your ships with, but there’s still something that’s not quite right about them, there all a bit Lowry and matchsticky, unless altered as mentioned above. In this scale they would have been better produced in resin. But, if you want your ships to have some life to them they these sets will certainly give you that. Recommended Review sample courtesy of
  21. USS Arizona detail sets, part 2 Eduard 1:200 As wonderful the 1:200 scale USS Arizona is there’s always room to add a little detail, in the case of the sets from Eduard, a lot of detail. Having previously released three sets for the big ship, they have now released three more. Part 4- (53-110) is designed to add detail purely to the ships main top, the observation and control platforms on the main mast. Much surgery is required to remove all the platforms support beams and the large bins on the lower platforms. These are all replaced with etched brass parts and for once the instructions are pretty clear on where each individual part goes. Also requiring modification are the deck heads, through which the new inclined ladders pass through, by opening up the holes so that the ladders hand rails can fit without being squashed. Apart from the inclined ladders there are also the external access ladder which is affixed to one of the poles of the mast, a vertical escape ladder under the main starfish platform and a nicely detailed ranging clock which is fitted to the of the middle platform. The rest of the single sheet contains all the various railings, each designed to fit a specific zone, but most will have to be bent to fit the platform deck layout. Part 5- (53-111) is designed to add the ships railings. There are several different types included, and each of those fitted to the upper decks and platforms are designed to fit a specific part. The main deck railings, however, are made up of individual strands of “wire” and separate stanchions, plus separate turnbuckles to attach the railing wire to the anchor points on the splinter shields. There are two types of stanchions, one just an upright, the other is fitted with a bracing strut, these are fitted alternately along the side of the main deck. The whole process of fitting the main deck railing looks really complex, but may, once all the lengths have been cut out and the stanchions fitted prove to just be an exercise in extreme patience. Part 6 – (53-112). Although stating this set is for the superstructure it contains much more than just a few inclined and vertical ladders. There are fine details such as grab handles, doors, ladders and stowage boxes for the main battery directors, support struts, armoured doors and rear detail panel for the main rangefinders, clamping ring, operator seat/supports and foot pedals for the main searchlights. The 5” guns receive training and elevation hand wheels, seats, loader stand, and railings plus a breech lever and replacement turntable mounting. The armoured bridge receives a new outer skin, whilst the superstructure behind it is fitted out with new armoured doors. The foremast platforms are fitted with new deckhouse, and a new secondary platform. On the main deck the hatches can be posed open with the use of the provided supports and several eyelets are replaced. The foredeck winches are provided with new control wheels and there are a number of cable reels, for which the modeller needs to provide the drum out of plastic rod, and the hawsepipes are fitted with cover grilles. Apart from the deck vents being fitted with new tops there are several hatches and boom sockets fitted along the top of the armoured belt along with boat mooring eyes and individual rungs for the ladders down the side of the ship. Conclusion So now we have the full six sets of etch details, at least I believe these are the last sets as they complete the various sections of the ship. As with the previous sets Eduard are really playing catch up with other manufacturers in providing details for the big Arizona. They are very nicely done and provide a wealth of detail but could it be too late? Obviously Eduard don’t think so and if you haven’t treated your kit to some etch, you can’t go far wrong with these. Highly recommended Review sample courtesy of
  22. HMS Belfast detail sets 1/350 White Ensign Models The release of HMS Belfast was yet another pleasant surprise from Trumpeter, but as is their want, they didn’t quite get it right. But now, with the release of these three sets from White Ensign Models will help the maritime modeller build a pretty accurate and very detailed model of one of the finest looking light cruisers in the world, and probably one of the most famous, since it’s still afloat in the Pool of London and open to visitors. Etch Detail Set, PE 35172. To detail the kit White Ensign Models have released this large etched set, comprising of two sheets, each 290mm x 127mm in size, packed to the gunwhales with parts, delivered in their usual sturdy envelope, well protected with thick card. The instructions are typical WEM, being very clear and easy to read with some useful written instructions on how to shape the relative parts and which alternative parts are required and were they are fitted. There are parts for building an earlier mod state of the ship as well as the later outfitting. Sheet A contains all the ships railings pre-made to the correct size for each area they are required. There are several types of radar included, such as the Type 284, 282 and 285 Yagi antennas, Type 291 and Type 281 radars in addition to Type 86 and Type 91 TBS antenna. There are one set of accommodation ladders provided, one for each side of the ship. The usual inclined ladders are provided along with the 8-Barrelled Pom-Pom fittings, Walrus Amphibian parts, Early mast top platforms and DF antenna, boiler room vent grilles, Foremast and Mainmast top gaff, paravane parts, Mainmast IFF responder and the Foretop Anemometer array. Since the funnels in the kit are of the wrong shape two sets of cap grilles have been provided, one pair for the kit parts and another pair for the correction set, available from WEM. Sheet B contains the more specific parts for the ship. Starting with the main cranes, these complete replacement units consist of new jibs, bases, jib rests, pulleys, and hooks, along with two lengths of rigging depending on whether the jib is raised or lowered. Styrene rod will need to be used for various parts in the build. There are numerous platform supports and new platforms for the Radar lantern, mainmast, and foremast. The foredeck gets a new breakwater with its respective front and rear braces. There are also new items for the hanger with doors that can be wound round a styrene rod to show them open. The catapult gets a new track, top inside plate, side braces, extenders and manoeuvring pump. Whilst Trumpeter have produced some very nice ships boats, this set takes them to a new level in providing interiors for each of the 35’, 36’ and 25’ motor boats including steering wheel in addition to new rudder/propeller skegs, handrails, and masts. The 16’ dinghy, 32’ cutter and 25’ motor launch all get new rudders and a selection of oars for the all except the dinghy. All the ships boats are provided with new cradles and/or frames to sit on. The rest of the sheet is filled with items such as watertight doors, deck hatches, replacement torpedo doors, blakes stoppers, 4” gun mount details, 20mm mounts, the mainmast starfish platform and supports, aldis lamps, bridge and lower bridge venture strips and the hawspipe gratings. Finally there are three runs of stock anchor chain, but these are a little flat for use and they would be better replaced with real chain or WEM’s own battleship chain set and several lengths of generic vertical ladder stock. Pro 3536,. A direct replacement set for the kit parts, mainly meant to correct the ships funnels, but also the compass platform, which inaccurately moulded in the kit. The resin is really well moulded and the new funnels give the whole kit a more accurate look. They don't have the "depth" of opening like the kit funnels, but once painted black and the grilles fitted they will look fine. Of course the modeller could always open the funnels out more. Pro 3537, is another simple direct replacement set for the ships yardarms with one each of very finely turned upper and lower yards. Conclusion It was wonderful to finally get a kit of HMS Belfast in 1:350 scale, it had been a long wait, but it was worth it, even with the inaccurate funnels. Now though, the modeller can not only super detail their kit with the fabulous etched brass set, but also make the model more accurate with the release of the funnels and compass platform, then, add a little more finesse to the finished model with a pair of scale turned brass yardarms, what more could the modeller want. Very highly recommended Review sample kindly provided be John at
  23. King Tiger for Academy 1:35 Eduard The new Academy King Tiger is a corker of a kit, but as always there’s always room for improvement, and Eduard have now released two new sets to super detail the kit. Admittedly some of the styrene parts within the kit can look rather over scale and this is where the etched parts really come into their own. The modeller will need to provide styrene or brass rod and some of the kit detail needs to be removed before the etched parts can be added, as per standard procedure for Eduard sets. [36260 External Set] This set is contained on a medium sized fret of relief etched brass. As is pretty much standard with these sets the majority of the smaller parts are dedicated to replacing the clamps, brackets and supports for the various pioneer tools. Also include are new brackets and straps for the headlights and fire extinguisher. Each of the vision blocks around the commanders cupola are fitted with new guards. For the engine deck the set includes not only mesh grilles, but armoured covers for them, theses are supported by four risers made of styrene rod sourced from the modellers supplies. The turret receives new lifting eyes, hatch fittings for the gunner, (internal and external), commander and expended cartridges, (also internal as well as external). There are also foot steps up the turret sides and additional fittings for the turret roof. [36257 Fender Set] As the name suggests, this set is for the complete replacement of the tanks fenders and side skirts. The set comprises a medium sized and a smaller sized fret. Each of the side pieces and mudguards will need to be carefully bent to shape and fitted to the sides of the model. Unfortunately Eduard haven’t given any templates for this, so it’ll be a bit of trial and error using the kits parts to get the shape right. Between each individual section there is an additional jointing piece which will also need to be bent to the correct shape. The front mudguards are slightly more tricky in that they need to be rolled to shape and the side piece folded to sit snugly alongside the curved part. Additional details such as the hinges, strengthening strips and locks are provided for both the front and rear mudguards. Conclusion A pair of very nice sets, which given the detail on the Academy kit may not be necessary to some modellers, but they will certainly give an extra finesse to the detail, particularly the fenders with the better scale thickness. Highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  24. Messerschmitt detail Sets Eduard/Brassin 1:32 Revell produced are cracking kit in their 1:32 Me-109G-6 particularly for the price, but it have some shortcomings and Eduard believe the detail also needed to be spruced up. With this in mind they have released a selection of sets for this kit, and an additional one for those modellers who would like to use the kit in a diorama. All these sets can be found in the Big Ed set or bought separately, it’s entirely up to the modeller to decide how much detail they would like or need to add. The relief etched brass is up to their usual high standards yet the instructions still let them down and really should be clearer on how parts are folded and fitted. Detail Set (32788) The two sheets contained in the standard poly sleeve provide parts for both the interior and exterior, so no need for separate sets. The majority of parts are on a medium sized relief etched sheet whilst the smaller sheet containing the cockpit parts is mostly pre-painted and self adhesive. For the cockpit the set includes a new seat support and panel for the rear bulkhead, new seat pan, a pair of very well detailed rudder pedals, trim wheel control chains and support bracket. The instrument panel is made up of several layers with the instruments printed on the backing plate, as other sets of this nature a drop of Klear or Aqua Gloss will be needed to represent the instrument glass. On the side walls there are several new or replacement instrument boxes and pre-printed faces, along with new cable runs and pipework. Each of the alternative gunsights receives new reflector glass supports, lens surround and brackets. Externally the set provides new radiator front and rear grids, a new intake grille, internal fittings for the radiator housings and main wheel bays; brake pipes and replacement lower undercarriage leg doors. The ailerons are given new end plates and the slats are provided with new internal lip strips. There is a nicely detail aerial mounting bracket on the tail fin and strap for the drop tank. Finally, each of the alternative canopies receive new armoured back plates and handles for the windscreen frame. Interior Zoom Set (33128) 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. Tools and Boxes (32351) For those modellers that want to use their model in a diorama, whether in a workshop or on the line then this two sheet set will be just for you. The main part is the carry case, which, once folded to shape is fitted with four carry handles, two per side. Into this are fitted four shelves, two shallow ones for the general tools, such as spanners, snips, hammers, cutters and the like, (all provided), and too deeper ones in which the more specialist tools are held, all safely kept in place by various spacers and locking parts. Also included is a large tool roll, which when assembled and painted up should look great lying on a wing on the grass by the aircraft. The roll is also well populated with the more popular tools such as screwdrivers, cutters, rule, adjustable spanners etc. Seatbelts (32784), and (32791) These two sets of seatbelts give more choice to the modeller, they can either buy the all etched brass set, which is pre-painted and go through the process of annealing to make them more flexible to sit in the seat pan correctly, or go for the fabric ones which should sit more naturally. Both sets come with a full selection of buckles and clasps and whilst whilst quite fiddly to assemble they will really help make the cockpit stand out from the crowd. Brassin Wheel Set (632 018) In addition to the etched sets Eduard, in their Brassin range have also released this set of replacement resin wheels. The inner and outer hubs, plus the tyres are all separate, making painting so much easier. Detail is also enhanced with the tread looking very nice and the brake details more representative. Once removed from the moulding blocks it shouldn’t take to much cleaning up before they are ready for use. Conclusion This is another great selection of sets from Eduard, who seem to be churning them out like it was going out of fashion, yet keeping the standard high. The tool box set is my favourite and I hope they produce more diorama sets in the future. The rest of the sets will go towards making the finished model look top notch, particularly when the Brassin wheels are used as well. Review sample courtesy of
  25. 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
×
×
  • Create New...