Jump to content

Search the Community

Showing results for tags 'eduard'.

  • 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. CBU-87 1:48 Eduard Brassin The CBU-87 or Cluster Bomb Unit was a free-fall submunitions dispenser brought in to replace the older model in the 80s, which has flip-out stabilising fins, and can drop up to 202 bomblets to cover a minimum 20m2 area with a variety of types of explosive canister. Whilst their use is banned in many countries due to their lingering effects on civilian population when unexploded ordnance is stumbled upon by the unwary, they are still used by the US and some other countries who did not sign the agreement. The set arrives in the familiar Brassin clamshell box, with the resin parts safely cocooned on dark grey foam inserts, and the instructions sandwiched between the two halves, doubling as the header card. There are six canisters in the box, with separate tail-fins that fit with a butt-joint to the main body. The fins are depicted folded for carriage, and as well as the resin parts there are copious stencils to apply to the bodies, and as usual a painting and decaling guide is printed on the front of the instructions, with colour call-outs in Gunze codes. Detail on the fins and bomb bodies is excellent, with different types of rivets evident on the casing, plus a fine rendition of the folded fins on the tail. You will need to remove the bombs from the casting stubs with a fine saw, and if you are concerned about the butt-joints fitting well, simply make the centres concave to reduce the likelihood of this happening. As usual, take the precaution of wearing a mask when cutting or sanding resin, as the tiny particles are harmful to your health if breathed in. Washing the parts in warm water will also improve the adhesion of paint, as there may still be some moulding release agent on the parts when you receive them. Review sample courtesy of
  2. Messerschmitt Bf 109F-4 1:48 Eduard ProfiPACK The Messerschmidt Bf 109 is one of the iconic aircraft of WWII. The F-4 would use the 1332hp DB601E engine which would be fitted with a broader balded propeller for improved altitude performance. The aircraft would carry the new Mauser MG151 20mm cannon with 200 rounds per gun. Production of the F-4 would start in May 1941 and last a year with 1841 examples being built, 576 of these being the tropicalised version. The Kit This kit traces its roots back to the E-1 issued in 2012 and comes with new parts for the F-4. Construction starts shockingly enough with the cockpit. Various control wheels and the main control column is added along with the armoured seat back. Following this the seat pan and rudder pedals are added. A full set of photo-etched belts is provided for the pilots seat. Following this side panels and parts are added into the fuselage sides, including some photo-etched panels. The instrument panel is made up using the supplied photo-etched parts. Once all of these sub-assemblies are made up they can be placed inside the fuselage and this closed up. As well as the cockpit the tail wheel and exhausts need to be added before the closure takes place. One of the decal options uses different exhaust parts and this is not mentioned on the instructions so the modeller will need to check the profiles. Once the main fuselage is together the intake needs to be added on the side. For the tropical version this will need the additional filter adding as well. Construction then moves to the rear of the main fuselage with the tail planes and rudder being added. All of the control surfaces are separate so can be posed as needed by the modeller. Next up are the wings. The lower is one part with left and right uppers. The wheel well detail needs to be added into the lower wing and then the uppers can be added on. Once complete the wing assembly is mated with the main fuselage. Next up the leading edge slats and ailerons can be added. On the underside of the wing the left and right radiators are assembled and added to the wing. The flaps can then be added making sure to get the radiator flaps at the correct angle. Moving towards finishing the model the main landing gear units are completed and added to the model. The wheels are a single part with a left and right hub. The gear leg is attached as is the door. The canopy parts can then be added not forgetting the pilots head rest & armour in the main centre part. Last but not least for the main kit the propeller and spinner are added. If needed a centre line bomb and rack are included. The bomb fins and sway braces are photo-etched parts which will look more in scale. Decals Decals are in house from Eduard and should pose no issues. There is a main sheet and a supplemental sheet for the stencils, markings are provided for 6 examples; W.Nr 7183 Flown by Hptm Hans "Assi" Hahn, III/JG.2, St. Pol, France 1941. W.Nr 7243 Flown by Oblt Otto Kath, Stab/JG.54 Staraya Russa, Soviet Union Dec 1941. W.Nr 13324 Flown by Oblt Viktor Bauer, 9./JG.3 Shchigry, Soviet Union June 1942. Flown by Uffz Hans Dobrich, 6./JG.5, Petsamo, Finland Sept 1942. W.Nr 7629 Flown by Oblt Frank Liesendahl, 10 (Jabo)/JG.2, France June 1942. W.Nr 8693 Flown by Lt Hans-Joachim Marseille, 3./JG.27, North Africa Feb 1942. Conclusion This is a welcome new F-4 release from Eduard. Not only is it available as the ProfiPACK kit but over trees and LEPT photo-etch sets are available if you wish to build more than one of the excellent decal options. Highly recommended. ProfiPACK Kit Overtrees LEPET1 Etch Review sample courtesy of
  3. Hellcat Mk.I 1:72 Eduard "Weekend" Since 1938 Grumman had been working on its successor to the F4F Wildcat. The new aircraft would feature a wider undercarriage which would retract into the wings. This was arranged with a new hydraulic system which rotated through 90°. The wing was mounted lower and a hydraulic folding mechanism was fitted. Grumman worked closely with the US Navy to provide a fighter which would defeat the Japaneses Zero. The design was further refined using combat reports with a larger engine being fitted . The British Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm would receive just over 1200 aircraft under the Lease Lend programme. Originally these were alled the Grumman Gannet Mk.I but this was changed to the Hellcat for simplicity. These would see combat in Norway, the Med and the Far East. The FAA would eventually feild 12 Squadrons of Hellcats. After the end of WWII the aircraft were rapidly replaced in the British inventory with the last two Squadrons retiring them in 1946. The Kit The original kit was released by Eduard back in 2011, and has been re-released in different boxes periodically over this time. Now it is in a light grey plastic and the moulds are wearing well with crisp finely moulded parts. The kit featuring fine engraved panel lines. There are three main sprues of the grey plastic, and one clear sprue. Construction starts where else but in the cockpit. The rear bulkhead and right side panels are attached to the cockpit floor. The main instrument panel is made up and then attached to the cockpit floor as well, along with the control column and pilots seat. Seatbelts are provided in this kit as decals. Once the seat is on the left hand side panel can be installed and to finish of the cockpit the rudder pedals are attached. The cockpit assembly can then be inserted in to the fuselage and the main fuselage closed up. Before this is done remember to add the tail wheel part and a panel under the cockpit. The flashed over tab hole for the external tank must also be opened up at this time. Construction then moves to the wings, these are of conventional upper & lower parts each side. Before they are closed u the holes in the outboard lower wings for rockets must be closed up, and the insert for the main guns must be added in. Once assembled the wings along with the one part tailplanes can be added to the main fuselage. The modeller then moves to the front of the aircraft. The engine cowling is made up as is the 5 part engine. The engine is attached to the front of the main fuselage and the cowling added. Next up for construction are the wheels. These are of two part construction being the main wheel and separate hub. When complete these are attached to the main leg, and the main gear door is attached to the outside of the leg. Lastly the canopy parts are added. These can be posed in either the open, or closed position. Decals Decals are from Eduard and should pose no issues, markings are provided for 2 examples; FN427 - Sub Lt. McKenzie, HMS Indomitable, Bay Of Bengal October 1944. JV105 - HMS Emperor, Aegean Sea, September 1944. Conclusion This is a welcome re-release from Eduard with markings for the Fleet Air Arm. Highly recommend. Review sample courtesy of
  4. JAS-39D upgrade sets for Revell kit 1:72 Eduard Whilst not quite as prolific as they once were, Revell are still capable of producing fine kits. Their recent JAS-39C/D Gripen is one such example. Now, just as Revell followed the release of their JAS-39C with the two-seater D model, Eduard have released a set of photo etched parts for the trainer variant. In usual Eduard style, the first set is divided into two frets. The first is a self-adhesive, pre-painted jobbie that focuses mainly on the cockpit, while the second is a plain brass fret. Amongst the items on the first fret are lots of extra details for the kit's ejector seats, including seat cushions, harnesses, pull handles and details for the head box. Also included on this fret are one-piece instrument panels as well as details for the side consoles and rudder pedals. On the unpainted fret are parts for the rest of the airframe, including a range of details for the main and nose landing gear bays, doors, and parts for the landing gear itself such as brake lines and scissor links. The flame holder for the engine afterburner is included too, as is a new lining for the inside of the jet exhaust. Also included are bits and bobs for the airbrakes, missile rails and IFR probe. Nice bonus features include FOD guards for the engine intakes and a hinge for the cockpit canopy. Conclusion These are neat sets from Eduard which will make a noticeable difference to the basic kit. Recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  5. Bf.109F-4 Updates (for Eduard) 1:48 Eduard Just in case the detail of the newly released Profipak edition of this kit (reviewed here by my colleague recently) isn't enough for you, or you bought the Overtrees and have decided you do actually want some extra detail, there are a couple of items here that might be of interest. As usual with Eduard's Photo-Etch (PE) and Mask sets, they arrive in a flat resealable package, with a white backing card protecting the contents and the instructions that are sandwiched between. Airframe Upgrades (48899) This large sheet of bare brass PE contains substantial upgrades to the detail and scale thickness aspect of the model, including lining to the part of gear bay where the struts retract to, as well as a complete new set of gear bay covers that laminate up with extra detail for ultimate fidelity. The chin intake's flap is also replaced, and the main radiator flaps in the wings are upgraded substantially with highly detailed parts that replicate both the flaps themselves, plus the operating mechanism of both halves of the flaps. Finally, a retaining strap for the external fuel tank mounted on the belly station is supplied to wrap around the mid-section. Masks (EX535) This one is mostly of interest to the Overtrees or Weekend Edition buyers, unless you've lost your masks from the Profipak version of course. Supplied on a sheet of yellow kabuki tape, these pre-cut masks supply you with a full set of masks for the canopy, with compound curved handled by using frame hugging masks, while the highly curved gaps are in-filled with either liquid mask or offcuts from the background tape. In addition you get a set of hub masks for the wheels, allowing you to cut the demarcation perfectly with little effort. Review sample courtesy of
  6. Curtiss P-40B Warhawk (for Airfix) 1:48 Eduard The new Warhawk from Airfix is a rather nice kit, and with these new sets from Eduard, should end up even nicer with some careful construction and sympathetic painting. As usual with Eduard's Photo-Etch (PE) and Mask sets, they arrive in a flat resealable package, with a white backing card protecting the contents and the instructions that are sandwiched between. P-40B Updates (49786) This set consists of one fret of nickel-plated and pre-painted brass, plus another of bare brass for the more constructional elements to be painted with the rest of the airframe. You will need to remove the moulded-in detail from the instrument panel and some of the sidewall boxes to accept the many small parts that upgrade the detail level beyond that achieved in the basic kit. The instrument panel is replaced by a lamination giving recessed instruments, plus throttle quadrant, levers and a complete new seat that is folded up with a separate brace across the back, and fitted to the kit frame. Access panels are added in the scalloped rear-view windows, and a ring-and-bead sight is fitted to the nose, just in front of the canopy. Moving out of the cockpit a new radio bay interior skin is added to the door; new mesh panels in the chin intakes; highly detailed cooling flaps around the cowling; wheel bay inserts plus new bay doors, all of which have PE stays. The gear legs are spruced up with additional small details, plus a PE brake hose, and the tail-wheel bay is given new doors with bracing strut. On the tail, a trio of trim-tab actuators are added long with a curved hinge-part that replaces the moulded-in pip on the rudder. Seatbelts STEEL (49787) This set includes a full set of seatbelts for the pilot in the new super-fine and flexible steel format, pre-painted, shaded and nickel plated for extra realism. They should drape much better over the seats than the old brass belts, which couldn't be annealed due to their painted finish. Landing Flaps (48895) This double fret of brass will allow you to build your model with dropped flaps for a bit more visual interest, regardless of whether they were seen that way in real life or not. You will need to remove some areas of the upper and lower wing, as the flaps aren't separate on the kit. With these parts removed as per the diagrams, it is relatively straight forward to fold up the bays and the flaps, with only a few lengths of wire or rod from your stocks needed to depict the hinge-point. Each rib is twisted and bent to lie in a pre-etched track, with one separate rib that couldn't be etched captive due to a change in the trailing edge profile. I really like these sets, and they really aren't as hard to do as you'd think. Masks (EX530) Supplied on a sheet of yellow kabuki tape, these pre-cut masks supply you with a full set of masks for the canopy, using frame hugging masks that are precision cut to sit perfectly on your model. All you need to do is keep the canopy clean in the meantime. Review sample courtesy of
  7. I bought this Eduard kit a couple of years ago at the Cosford Model Show. There was some vague plan to fit a resin or PE cockpit of some kind but in the end I decided against it because I wanted to just get on and build them. Plus you can't see anything through the canopies as they are so small. The kit itself is very simple, with fewer than twenty parts each but there is still plenty of detail. The box contains two Spitfires, one full span and one clipped wing version and a sheet of decals as well as a very nicely laid out instruction booklet. There are six different schemes in total with three for each wing type. My only slight criticism would be that there is only one set of upper wing roundels on the sheet which meant I couldn't build my two preferred options although AM decals are available. The main colours were a mix of Revell and Humbrol enamels although the props and stripes were acrylic and everything was brush painted. Anyway, enough rambling, here they are, hope you enjoy them. TD147 JF E Wing Commander James “Stocky” Edwards, Schneverdingen, Germany, May 1945 PV181 RAB, flown by Wing Commander Rolf Arne Berg, No.132 (Norwegian) Wing, Twente, the Netherlands, winter 1944-45
  8. Hi All, I hope you don't mind seeing another Mig-21 completed from Eduard. For me it was a first time trying the NMF on a plastic model. I used Vallejo's metal range paints. (Note: I'm absolutely aware that all Hungarian Mig-21Bis was painted grey, so you can take this model as a "what if" before you start hammering me in the comment section ) Thanks for all improvement comments / recommendations in advance
  9. Hello, Someone asked me to detail the steps to modify the Eduard Mirage IIIC undercarriage legs to achieve a proper sit of the plane. Here you are . The Eduard kit : As said, it was acclaimed when released, setting a new “modern” standard for the Mirage IIIC in 1:48 scale. Yes, indeed; but fit is ranging from bad to terrible, in the windshield area (a common weakness of Mirage kits, Heller has this issue as well), the air intake area and wing to fuselage upper wings seams. But the most outstanding issue (at least to us frog-eaters Mirage buffs) is the kit kit long legs, giving a “Missus is on 2.5 inches stilettoes” stance to the plane. That came out of the Eduard team coming to France to measure the real McCoy in a museum, which was a real smart move of the design team. Even the best led plans can fail and as goes the saying devil is in details … Quite a big detail in fact, as the museum bird as no engine installed and no radar, hence the oleos were in full extended position. Oops ! To a profane eye, indeed that’s not obvious, once fit issues are overcomed, with a good paint job, she’s a beaut ! (let’s be clear, the Mirage III is the sexiest jet of the early 60ies !!!) How to fix that issue : Main landig gear legs needs to be shortened by a good 3,5 mm by cutting immediately above the compass and removing plastic from the remaining leg. You then add a section of paper clip to strengthen things a bit, a quick drop of CA glue, sand round once dry and you’re done. Pics : Main UC comparison : grey one Eduard, silver ones Hobby Boss. Measure thrice, cut once ! :) Eduard legs cutted to good length and paperclip section inserted The front leg is a bit trickier. The pivot is on the wheel arms axle, so you need to assemble the whole U/C leg and then have the arms cleanly sawed off. Just close the angle to obtain the proper look. Next, on side view, the front leg have a slight rearward slant; to achieve that you need to reduce the length of the retraction rod. Pics : One can see the fully extended front leg Here are the cuts that need to be done on the wheel "arms" ... and the retarcting rod is shortened Front leg reassembled Et voilà, you’re done, one properly sitting Mirage on your shelve ! :). Pics : Proper angle and proper slant, yippeeee ! Should you like to see the complete building album, it's here : Mirage build ++Hope this little summary was useful, and if it's placed in the wonrg section, please, Boss, feel free to move it where it should belong Best, Stéphane
  10. Dornier Do.17Z-2 (for ICM) 1:48 Eduard The Happy Times for the modeller of the Flying Pencil in 1:48 continue with the day-bomber variant of the Do.17Z, which shares a great degree of commonality of parts with the Do.17Z-10 nightfighter sets we reviewed last year here. As usual with Eduard's Photo-Etch (PE) and Mask sets, they arrive in a flat resealable package, with a white backing card protecting the contents and the instructions that are sandwiched between. Interior (49790) There's a fair amount of glazing in the glass-nosed bomber, so the cockpit will be quite visible after building. This set contains one sizeable fret of nickel-plated and pre-painted brass plus another in bare brass, with a full suite of new pre-painted instrument panel skins that are either single layer, or made up from laminations to give a 3D look to the instrument dials. This includes a number of black boxes, as well as detail to both the sidewalls and the rear bulkhead. The throttle quadrant is skinned with a more detailed pre-painted part, and has various levers added in different colours added to the slots to give the area more life. The pilot's chair and radar operator's work-stations are updated with floor plates, rudder pedals for the pilot, and other sundry equipment not included with the kit. Finally, the twin drum magazines for the rearward facing machine gun are skinned at the front, and given more realistic carry-handles to replace the moulded-in ones. Seatbelts STEEL (49789) This set includes three sets of seatbelts for the crew in the new super-fine and flexible steel format, pre-painted and nickel plated for realism. They should drape much better over the seats than the old brass belts, which couldn't be annealed due to their painted finish. Exterior & Bomb Bay (48896) Consisting of two bare brass frets, sheet one of this set concentrates almost entirely on the wheel bays, adding missing detail to the bulkheads plus the intricate latticework inside the bays and wing structure, plus more seen within the wing/fuselage join in the bomb bay, with hinge and structural details added to the bay doors. Those last parts will be better seen than in the night fighter if you care to open the bay to show off your handiwork. The final few parts are used to improve the detail of the landing gear legs, and provides additional bracing for the kit mud-guard. The second fret covers the bomb "ladder" racks in detail, adding substantial detail within bay, and including bomb shackles, plus PE fins for the 10 bombs included in the kit, plus a template for their installation, and a fuse cap for each one. The relief on the fins is pressed out using the tip of a ball-pen before they are added to the bomb bodies. Landing Flaps (48897) Another single large fret containing all the parts necessary to mobilise the flaps that take up the rear of the wing inboard of the ailerons, and identical to the Z-10 variant. The work starts by removing the rear of the nacelles that move with the flaps, and then removing part of the off-cut which won't be seen in the retracted position. Then the trailing edge of the inner wing panel is removed and consigned to the bin on each side. The flap bays are then folded up from a single part, which is a surprisingly easy task. An additional rib is added between the front and back bulkheads, and the assembly can then be glued inside the wing, taking care to achieve good fit. The flap itself is then built in the same way, only with the addition of two stringers and a string of 1.6mm diameter rods in 6.2mm lengths to fit between the leading edge of the ribs. Each joint between the stringers and ribs has a tiny diamond-shaped strengthening plate added, after which it can be installed on the wing, gluing the remainder of the aft engine nacelle fairing in place so that it matches the rest of the nacelle. Clearly, this is done in mirror image for the other wing. Canopy Masks (EX528) With the nose glazing, there's even more glass in the day bomber, so a set of masks may be just what the doctor ordered. In this set of pre-cut kabuki tape masking material, you get enough parts for every pane of the canopy and nose, including the rear gunner's blown window and the additional windows under the nose on the gunner's gondola. As a bonus, you also have a set of wheel hub masks, and that includes the tail wheel. Review sample courtesy of
  11. STEEL Seatbelts & Remove Before Flight Tags 1:48 Eduard This selection of sets of STEEL seatbelts expands on the range initially released that we had a look at here not too long ago. Etched from 0.1mm sheet, which looks like stainless steel because it doesn't rust, these new belts combine the best of both worlds. The resulting etch is thin at around 0.06mm, and the paint that has been applied after etching is included in that thickness. The paint itself seems to be more flexible too, and the designs have added details such as shadows printed near buckles and joints to give an added depth to the design. Having tested one of the belts from the Luftwaffe Bombers set, they appear less susceptible to fatigue and will stand up to repeated movements, and can be posed much more realistically due to the ease of bending of the surface. The paint is also a lot less likely to flake off at a sharp bend, which is a worry for standard PE belts. The front is very detailed with stitching and shadows, while the belt furniture is left a shiny natural metal finish that is highly realistic. Each set is presented in Eduard's by now famous flat film back with a resealable end, a white card back and instructions folded behind for a little added protection. The PE looks like a standard fret until you get it in your hands, when the reduced thickness is apparent, while the fret is still surprisingly strong due to the new material. The new sets are as follows: Imperial Japanese Navy Fighters WWII (49099) Included in this set are four of each for Mitsubishi (with optional late war shoulder strap), and Kawanishi full harnesses, plus six lap belts for Nakajima aircraft. Soviet WWII (49100) With four sets of belts for each of the Yakolev and Lavochkin fighters, you have a total of eight sets with lap and shoulder belts included. RAF WWII Late (49101) Six full sets of the later war belts used by the RAF, with both lap and shoulder harnesses, and the central boss that each clips into. German WWI (49102) As with many things in early aviation, there was little standard about seatbelts, but this set includes four full harnesses and two of each of four types of lap straps for Fokker Aviatik and others between 1914-16, plus two sets of lap belts for Albatros CIII, Hanover CL.III and other multi-seat aircraft during the Great War. As always, consult your references to check the belts used with your model. Remove Before Flight Tags (49103) This sheet contains 38 RBF tags of eight different types, with four of each and six of the final type, which need a little loop of fine wire adding to attach them to the protective covers that adorn intake FOD barriers, seeker head protectors etc. Some are red with white printing, others with black printing, so check your references to see which type the operator of your model use. This set had printing on both sides, so you won't need to do any tricky paint matching, and there is some text on the back-side for some designs too. USN WWII Fighters STEEL (49104) Six full sets of four-point harnesses in two colours for your US Naval fighters. Italian WWII Fighters STEEL (49105) Fives sets of three-point harnesses for Italian fighters. French WWII STEEL (49106) Six sets of either four-point with optional four alternative five-point seatbelt sets for French aircraft. Royal Flying Corps (RFC) WWI STEEL (49107) Four sets of belts in either early or late styles, the lap belts for which will require a small bullet-shaped piece of rod from your own stock added to the closure mechanism for ultimate realism. Review sample courtesy of
  12. Super Étendard Updates (for KittyHawk) 1:48 Eduard We reviewed this new kit from Kitty Hawk here recently, and now we have some new sets from Eduard that will expand on what's in the box and give you extra detail that would otherwise take some serious effort to replicate. As usual with Eduard's Photo-Etch (PE) and Mask sets, they arrive in a flat resealable package, with a white backing card protecting the contents and the instructions that are sandwiched between. Update Set (49791) Containing two frets of brass, one of which is nickel plated and pre-painted, this set contains parts to dress up the cockpit and airframe, beginning with the replacement of the kit instrument panel with layered parts to give better detail and instrument faces. The rudder pedals and cockpit floor are similarly upgrade, as are the sidewalls and consoles. The ejection seat receives new set of handles a headbox skin, and the deck behind the pilot is detailed with a heavily riveted part before attention turns elsewhere. The nose gear and main bays are all fitted out with detail skins and additional parts, as are the gear legs, with some nice stencil parts added from the colour sheet, brake detail and hosing on the main legs. The air brakes have a new inner skin provided, and two perforated skin inserts in the groove that runs down the inner face, while the break-point in the fuselage that allows you to show off the engine within has the moulded-in details removed before installation of a new more detailed frame that should improve realism there. Seatbelts STEEL (49792) This miniscule fret of the new ultra-thin and flexible steel PE contains a set of pre-painted seatbelts for your pilot, with similarly flexible paint ensuring minimal chance of it peeling under high stress. Masks (EX531) Supplied on a sheet of yellow kabuki tape, these pre-cut masks supply you with a full set of masks for the canopy, with compound curved handled by using frame hugging masks, while the highly curved gaps are in-filled with either liquid mask or offcuts from the background tape. In addition you get a set of hub masks for the wheels, allowing you to cut the demarcation perfectly with little effort. Review sample courtesy of
  13. UB-32A-24 Rocket Pods - Brassin Resin Accessories 1:72 Eduard The UB-32 is a carrier pod designed to accommodate the Soviet-designed S-5 unguided rocket. The pod holds 32 rockets and can be deployed on both rotary and fixed wing aircraft. S-5 rockets were used widely during the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan, but were found to be less than accurate and rather ineffective due to the small warhead. Although still in use with some air forces, the rocket has been replaced with larger calibre weapons in the Russian inventory. The UB-32 was the largest pod for the S-5 rocket and was introduced in the late-1970s. The S-24 variant was typically carried by the Mil Mi-24, a limited edition kit of which Eduard have released last month. Four pods are provided and each is made up of two resin parts plus a photo etched part for the exhaust. Decals are also included. As always, the execution of the pieces is exceptional. Conclusion Eduard's Brassin range of resin upgrades and accessories continues to expand at a phenomenal rate, which can only be a good thing for enthusiastic modellers keen to get their hands on top-quality ordnance to hang from their models. These parts are well-made, highly detailed and reasonably priced. Highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  14. Remove Before Flight (Steel) 1:72 Eduard It doesn't seem that long ago that Eduard released a set of photo etched RBF tags in this scale (although on checking it was actually four years ago), but here they are with a brand new set containing eight different types of tags. You can hardly blame them for releasing another set, as apparently their RBF tags are one of their best sellers. I like items such as these as they can add a superb sense of scale and realism to a finished model. With the addition a few items like these, you can easily imagine your model sitting on the flight line, fuelled up and ready for action. The strips of metal that connect the tags to the fret are pretty fine, so with a little care you should be able to remove them without damaging the paint. You might want to consider applying some masking tape to the back of the fret before your start though, just in case any of the tags ping off into the ether. Once removed, careful treatment will be needed in order to give the tags a more realistic twist. I say careful as if you manhandle these items, I imagine the paint could flake off. That wouldn’t be the end of the world as you could easily touch them up, but it would be a nuisance nonetheless Conclusion I can already imagine some of my finished models bombed up, with a handful of these tags fitted. All-in-all, these should be a really cost effective way of injecting a bit of realising to a finished model. Recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  15. Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX (more) Brassin and Bronze Resin Accessories for Eduard Kit 1:72 Eduard No sooner had we reviewed the last (huge) pile of resin goodies for their very own Spitfire Mk.IX kit, (see here) than Eduard dispatched another pile of bits pieces. This time around the upgrades include bronze undercarriage legs, resin upper cowls and resin ordnance to add interest to the underside of your Spit. Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX Top Cowls for Eduard Kit 1:72 Eduard Eduard have produced two resin upper cowling pieces for their new kit, although they are nearly impossible to tell apart. As far as I can tell, the only difference is a subtle change to the hydraulic reservoir access panel at the very aft edge of the cowl. Nevertheless, the parts are well made and will be handy if you wish to finish your model with an exposed engine. Top Cowl Early Top Cowl Late Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX Legs Bronze with Wheels for Eduard Kit 1:72 Eduard We reviewed four sets of replacement resin wheels and undercarriage doors last month, so it was a surprise to find another two sets in this month's box from Eduard. These sets are different, however, as they include bronze undercarriage legs as well as the same resin parts that were contained in the original sets. The bronze legs will be a lot stronger than their plastic equivalents, but don't expect anything extra in terms of detail. If anything, the cast detail is a little soft (or certainly no shaper than the plastic legs supplied with the kit. Even so, if you handle your models a lot, then these might be worth the extra investment. Spitfire Mk.IX Legs Bronze with 5 Spoke Wheels, Smooth Tyre Spitfire Mk.IX Legs Bronze with 4 Spoke Wheels, Pattern Tyre Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX 500lb Bomb and Drop Tank for Eduard Kit 1:72 Eduard Unlike the items pictured above, these are not really direct replacements for the kits parts (although long range fuel tanks and a couple of small bombs are included with the kit). They are really nicely cast though, and the photo etched details on the bomb will instantly set it apart from any plastic equivalent. Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX 500lb Bomb Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IX Drop Tank Conclusion There's nothing much wrong with Eduard's new IX, but even the best kits can be improved on, not least because of the limiting factors resulting from the use of injection moulded plastic. Naturally Eduard themselves have provided the means to enhance their new kit. Even if one or two of these items could be described as gilding the lily, there can be no denying the quality of design and manufacture. Highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  16. P-38F Cockpit (648277 for Academy) 1:48 Eduard Brassin Academy's Lightning kits are about your best bet in 1:48, even though the original tooling dates back to the 90s, which probably helps explain the relatively sparse detail in the kit cockpit. Here comes Eduard with a new cockpit set to put that right, as under the large blister canopy, a lot of the detail will be visible if you managed to keep the glazing clear. The set arrives in the familiar Brassin rectangular box, with the resin parts safely cocooned on dark grey foam inserts, and the instructions sandwiched between, doubling additional protection. Inside the box are three bags of resin parts, plus a bag of pre-painted nickel-plated Photo-Etch (PE) and a small decal sheet containing a few cockpit stencils. There are twenty grey resin parts, plus two in clear resin, all of which appear to have been mastered using 3D processes, resulting in incredible detail that is far more crisp than even the best traditional masters. Casting is first rate too, with no bubbles, and some tubular parts that are so thin you wonder how the resin would find its way through them. Construction begins with a complete set of pre-painted PE seatbelts, which attach to the resin chair, fixed to the cockpit floor with fine tubular frames and a portion of the main spar at the rear. The rear deck and its finely detailed radio gear is separated from the pilot by head armour and a small circular cushion, with each section locking together using keyed tabs to ensure a concise fit. A set of rudder pedals, laminated pre-printed PE instrument panel, control yoke, and detailed sidewalls go together to create the finished tub, which drops into the fuselage "pod" after the coaming is removed from the kit part. Additional detail is added to the sidewalls before installation, providing throttle quadrants, plus a few other knobs & bobs. The canopy is detailed with a gunsight as well as a section of the roll-over hoop in PE, which will require a little care with the glue. Review sample courtesy of
  17. B-17G Engines/Wheels/Turbochargers 1:72 Eduard Brassin (For Airfix Kit) These new sets are for the new Airfix 1/72 B-17G. Wheels Set (672120) This set contains both main wheels and the tail wheel in resin along with a set of painting masks. Engines Set (672131) This is a comprehensive set to replace all four main engine units for the B-17G, included are engines with seperate nacelles and cowling flap rings. There are 24 resin parts and photo-etched details. To build these up first the wiring harness is applied to the engine, and a front PE ring as well which has to be bent from straight rod. Two seperate resin parts are then added to each engine front. The exhaust ring is then added to the rear of then engine. The cowl flaps are then added to the rear of this assembly. The engine is then added to the wing. The nacelles can be added over the engines as needed. Turbochargers (672133) This 6 part resin set replaces the prominent turbocharges on the B-17. Conclusion Whether you use one or all of these sets the results should be an improvement over the kit parts. All are of the consistent high quality we now expect from the Brassin range. The casting on the engines is particularity good. Highly Recommended. Review samples courtesy of
  18. TER - Triple Ejector Racks 1:72 Eduard Brassin TER (672120) The TER or Triple Ejector Rack is exactly as it says. A pylon adaptor to enable the carriage of three weapons on the same pylon. This set from Eduard in their brassin range contains 5 resin racks with photo-etched details. Conclusion These racks will add some great detail to any model which needs to carry them. Highly Recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  19. WWII USAF Bomber Re-supply set 1:72 Eduard - For Airfix Kit This set is designed for the new Airfix WWII USAF Bomber re-supply set. The set starts of by offering replacement parts for the Cushman package car. New bumpers and headlight parts are included along with new structural parts. Next up is the Autocar traction unit for the fuel tanker. This receives a new front grill, doors, steps, internal cab parts, flooring and rear mudguards. The rear fuel tanker is next up with parts for bumper, side parts, top brackets, rear fuelling compartment doors, and parts for inside the fuelling compartment. The bomb trolley is next up with parts for the bed which hold the bombs. New fins are provided for the bombs on the trolley. The Chevrolet bomb truck then has new parts for the front bumper, front grill, internal parts including levers, windscreen wipers, and rear mud guards. Conclusion This set will greatly enhance the existing kit. Highly Recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  20. SC 50 German WWII Bombs 1:72 Eduard Brassin SC 50 (672115) The SC 50 was a standard bomb with a nominal weight of 50Kgs used by the Luftwaffe in WWII. It features a one piece drawn steel body with an explosive filler. This set from Eduard in their brassin range contains 8 bombs with 4 additional small parts per bomb. The small parts are quite fragile and one was broke off in this set. The small parts fit inside the bomb fins . Decals for the markings are also included. Conclusion Quality ordnance is always welcome and these bombs will add some great detail to any model which needs to carry them. Recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  21. Ki-61-II Kai Fastback & Teardrop Masks 1:72 Eduard - For Aoshima kits Here Eduard bring us two sets of masks for both versions of the Aoshima kit. Fastback Teardrop Conclusion A badly painted canopy can ruin the look of a good model and these masks should help prevent this. Recommended. Review samples courtesy of
  22. Albatros D.III Eduard 1:48 Weekend edition The line of Albatros 'D' fighters began in 1916 with the D.1, which represented a great step forward in German fighter design. It featured a streamlined semi monocoque plywood fuselage and synchronised twin Spandau machine guns. Quickly revised into the D.II variant, with the top wing lowered to improve visibility from the cockpit. Both featured wide chord wings of similar planform. The next revision was the D.III, which was influenced by the highly manoeuvrable Nieuport 11 French fighter, with it's sesquiplane wings. The fuselage was pretty much the same as the D.II, but the lower wing was of much reduced chord and noticeably much smaller than the top wing, which were connected with 'V' struts. Although this arrangement provided the desired increase in manoeuvrability, the lower wing was fitted with only a single spar. This was not really substantial enough and remained a weak point right through to the later D.V. The aircraft had a frightening tendency to shed it's lower wings under heavy loadings such as in a dive. Another problem was the radiator mounted centrally in the top wing, connected to the engine by pipework. One bullet hole could release a stream of scalding water into the pilots face, so it was offset to the right on later production variants, and many were converted in the field. However the aircraft was the mainstay of the German air force throughout 1917, largely contributing to 'Bloody April' of that year when their allied opponents suffered dreadful losses. The Kit. Eduards kit has been released before in various boxings and it is nice to see it available once again. The mouldings remain as crisp as ever and show no signs of wear, although the plastic has been changed from Eduard's old style sandy/olive colour to the more usual grey. Two sprues contain all the plastic parts, but as this is a 'Weekend' version no etch is supplied. A nice touch is that Eduard provide two complete upper wings, one with the central radiator, the other with it offset. The two colour schemes in this release both require the central version. Also on the sprues is an optional OAW style fin and rudder, but again this is not required here For a small model, and impressive amount of interior detail is provided, covering just about every item that was fitted in the real thing. The lack of etch means that no seat belts are there, but a set is provided on the decal sheet. Likewise the twin Spandau's are solid items without the etched jackets. This is not a problem if you have any of Eduard's separately available generic sets, or there is a specific set for this aircraft (Cat no FE793). Alternatively there is a Profipack version of the kit which also contains it. The Mercedes D.IIIa engine is a little beauty, simple but accurate, and provides the basis for superdetailers to go to work on. Tucked inside the close fitting cowlings I suspect most modellers will be happy as is, unless you decide to model the Richthofen version with cowlings off, as shown in the painting guide. Note that the instructions do not mention removing these, and they are moulded integrally with fuselage. But anyway, it would be perfectly valid to build Richthofen's version with them on. The only suggestion I would make concerns the wheels. On my first kits built some 10-15 years ago, I felt that they look a little on the small side. Comparing them with the wheels in Eduard's Albatros D.Va kit shows the difference. Aftermarket wheels have been available, or if you happen to have any Eduard's Fokker D.VII kits, they come with 2 sets of wheels so you can make use of the spare ones. It may require some simple mods to the valve covers (or not), depending upon which ones you use, and which D.III you are making. It's up to you, but I include a comparison of my model of Herman Frommherz's 'Blau Maus' with the kit wheels, and Voss's 'Red Heart' where I substituted some Fokker D.VII wheels. Options A.) Leutnant Werner Voss, Jasta 2, Proville, France. May 1917 B. Rittmeister Manfred von Richthofen, Jasta 11, Harelbeke, Belgium. June 1917. Decals are clear and sharp with good colours. They look like Eduard's own production, which have always been excellent in use. Fine details are provided, such as instruments, serial numbers that were stencilled on struts & undercarriage legs, and some very nice little Albatros logos for the rudder. Having built several of these over the years I can confirm that it goes together very well, with precise fit and no real problems. The lower wings require care in fitting, as each side is separate and has a pair of little lugs that fit into corresponding holes in the fuselage. If you have got a few biplane builds under your belt, this one should present no problems and makes into a little gem of a model. I built a previous release of the same kit about 12 years ago; Highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  23. MC.202 Exhaust Stacks (648281 for Hasegawa/Eduard) 1:48 Eduard Brassin If you already have a Hasegawa MC.202 in 1:48 or are going to pick up the new Limited Edition we reviewed here, you might be interested in this little pick-me-up addition for the kit. The set arrives in the familiar Brassin clamshell box, with the resin parts safely cocooned on dark grey foam inserts, and the instructions sandwiched between the two halves, doubling as the header card. Inside are two resin exhaust stacks, which have extremely finely cast hollow pipes for a more realistic look. Once removed from their casting blocks, they just drop into the kit slots and can be secured with CA or epoxy at your whim. As usual, take the precaution of wearing a mask when cutting or sanding resin, as the tiny particles are harmful to your health if breathed in. Washing the parts in warm water will also improve the adhesion of paint, as there may still be some moulding release agent on the parts when you receive them. Review sample courtesy of
  24. Folgore Limited Edition 1:48 Eduard Developed from the earlier MC.200, the Folgore (Thunderbolt) had a new fuselage mated to the earlier type's wings, and housing an imported Daimler-Benz DB601 engine, which Alfa-Romeo eventually license built for later production. It was fast and manoeuvrable, although it could become engaged in a lethal spin if handled casually, as well as being under-armed with only two machine-guns that were unreliable. The oxygen system was also suspect, and many missions were aborted due to problems, and no doubt some pilots lost their lives as a result due to hypoxia. It was rushed into production and entered service in mid-1941, although its advanced construction caused some delays, which resulted in fewer airframes than anticipated reaching the field. Throughout its service life it was upgraded to a certain extent, but late in the war it was renamed to the C.205 Veltro after the introduction of the more powerful DB605 engine, with export sales of converted airframes after the war. The Kit This is another of Eduard's limited edition boxings of other manufacturer's kits, this time taking advantage of their relationship with Hasegawa, who provided the base kit on which the package has been built. This is one of Hasegawa's good kits, and the surface detail is finely engraved without being indistinct, and the fabric effect of the flying surfaces hits a good median point of being noticeable without being overdone. To me, a lot of Hasegawa kits are a bit bland in the cockpit area (I know – heresy!), and this is where a great deal of the Eduard magic comes into play, as we'll see later. Inside the box are three mains sprues and three small sprues in Hasegawa's usual grey styrene, two sheets of Photo-Etch (PE) brass, one of which is nickel-plated and pre-painted, a sheet of yellow pre-cut kabuki-style paper masking material, a bag of resin parts consisting of wheels and filtered air intakes, a decal sheet printed by Cartograf, and of course the instruction booklet. The sprues are bagged with a little slip of paper stating that they were manufactured in Japan and boxed in the Czech Republic by Eduard, but by now we already know this. First impressions are of course good, as the base kit is well-liked, and all the important areas are to be upgraded with PE or resin detail, backed up by decals from a good source. Add Eduard's instructions, and a good variety of decal options into the mix and we have a winner on our hands. There is of course the usual bug-bear that rears its head when Italian paint-jobs are discussed, and that's the old "smoke ring" camouflage conundrum (not really a conundrum, but the alliteration was too much to resist). Well, you have the option of getting some Smoke Ring decals from that nice chap Mike Grant, testing your airbrushing mettle and doing them yourself, or bottling it and selecting the all-green option. The first item up for construction is the cockpit, which is heavily modified using the PE sheets, with a completely new instrument panel folded and laminated up with painted dials, followed by a comprehensive overhaul of all the cockpit detail, such as the floor, rudder pedals and sidewall detail. A set of crew belts are included for the kit seat, and the end result should be sufficient for most modellers' needs in terms of detail. The completed assembly is then sandwiched between the fuselage halves along with the prop shaft, which can be left to spin if you are careful with the glue. The optional resin filters are added to the sides of the engine bay, and a number of bumps need removal from the cowling sides, depending on which decal option you have selected. A styrene insert fits top and bottom for finish off the cowling detail, with a small chin-intake added, which would benefit from having its wall thickness reduced by scraping with the edge of a blade. A neat PE insert behind the pilot's head is inserted after closing the fuselage, which both improves detail there, as well as hiding the seam between the two halves – just don't forget to paint it while you are doing the cockpit. The lower wings are full span, with the upper wings split either side of the root, and a short spar between them as well as some additional wheel well detail, which is improved by the addition of some small PE parts before painting and closure of the wing assembly. A number of access panels on the top skin are filled for this boxing, and a hole is drilled in the underside for four options, although nothing appears to fit into it, so it must be a drain-hole or similar. The fuselage drops into the gap between the upper wing panels, and the elevators fit into the tail by the usual tongue-and-slot method. The main gear legs will require some alteration before construction, to remove the chunky sections that appear at intervals along their length, leaving you with an almost tubular leg, to which PE parts are added to hold the kit bay doors. The oleo-scissor links are also folded up from PE, and the replacement resin wheels fit into the two-part yoke on long pegs, which allows them to be left loose, so that the flat-spot can be aligned with the ground later on after they are fitted along with their retraction struts. The inner bay doors are replaced by new PE units that are laminated up from two parts each. The tail wheel is replaced by resin, ands here you have two to choose from, again depending on which decal option you are using, with a PE insert detailing the depression in which is sits and handily hiding that portion of the seam. The aerodynamic fairing around this area is also fixed to pegs, and you have a choice of two. Mid-way along the fuselage underside a small resin ADF Antenna is fitted for two decal options, and further forward the radiator housing also has optional parts that… you guessed correctly, depend on which decal option you have chosen. The prop is built up from three separate blades that are fitted to the back plate, then covered with the spinner cap, after you have drilled out the centre-hole with a 1.4mm bit. A number of PE strengthening plates and aerials are added around the wings, at the last gasp, and the clear parts, which are up to Hasegawa's usual standards, are affixed, with the addition of a PE rear-view mirror and canopy levers, plus a retaining strap into the bargain. Finally, a PE ring and bead sight are added to the top of the cowling in front of the windscreen. The masking sheet contains all the sections of the canopy for your ease, and even has a set of four doughnut shaped tyre masks for painting of the hubs. Markings As is usual with the Limited Edition boxing, you get a sizeable choice of decal options, with six in this box with a wide choice of camouflage schemes to terrify you, plus the aforementioned green one for that easy option. Macchi C.202 VII. Serie, M.M.9066, Maresciallo Ennio Tarantola, 151a Squadriglia, 51 Stormo C.T., Gela, September 1942 Macchi C.202 XII. Serie, M.M. Unknown, 70a Squadriglia, 3 Stormo C.T., Cerveteri, August 1943 Macchi C.202 VI. Serie, M.M.8122, 386a Squadriglia, 21 Gruppo Autonomo C.T., Kantemirowka, October 1942 Macchi C.202 II. Serie, M.M.7711, 378a Squadriglia, 155 Gruppo, 51 Stormo C.T., Gela, August 1942 Macchi C.202 XI. Serie, M.M. Unknown, 24 Gruppo Autonomo C.T., Olbia-Venafiorita, June 1943 Macchi C.202 I. Serie, M.M.7860, 71a Squadriglia, 17 Gruppo, 1 Stormo C.T., Udine-Campoformido, October 1941 Decals are by Cartograf, which is a guarantee of good registration, sharpness and colour density, with a thin gloss carrier film cut close to the printed areas. Conclusion The Folgore is an attractive looking aircraft that doesn't get built often enough, as well as not receiving the accolades it deserves for its performance. I've been meaning to build one of these for a while now, so you can imagine how happy this kit makes me. Very highly recommended. Review sample courtesy of
  25. Three new ex-Hasegawa re-boxings with Saab J-35, Macchi MC.202 Folgore and Harrier GR.7. by Eduard in 2016. Source: http://www.eduard.com/store/out/media/distributors/leaflet/leaflet2016-02.pdf V.P.
×
×
  • Create New...