Eduard etch set for Zvezda 1:350 Russian cruiser Varyag

[Shar2]

Russian protected cruiser Varyag (53067)
Eduard 1:350

Just when you think that there arenât any older kits that havenât been covered by an aftermarket company and they prove you wrong. This is the case with Zvezdas Varyag protected cruiser. The kit, whilst quite good, really does need some updating and this two sheet set will do just that.

Sheet one, 210mm x 135mm and as is usual for these types of sets, absolutely filled with new or replacement parts. Some areas of detail on the kit will have to be removed before these parts can be added although this is not really a problem, just ensure that the areas are flat. Starting at the bow the filigree moulding is removed before the finely etched parts are fitted. Several deckhouses, skylights and deck hatches are added, replacing the rather clunky plastic parts. Much of the kits bridge structure is completely replaced with etched parts so the wheelhouse and bridge wings shields have to be removed, leaving just the plain deck. Onto this a new etched deck piece is added to the remaining plastic deck part, this has nicely detailed wood detail etched into it. Onto this the new wheelhouse is built by folding the single piece etched part into shape before the roof is added and its attached railings. The cross bracings are added to the bridge wing supports. Two inclined ladders are fitted between the bridge deck and the main deck. The lower foremast platform has its shields removed before etched bracing is added underneath and railings are fitted to the top, whilst the searchlight platform is replaced. The two guns are fitted to etch mounts and have their breech detail replaced. Rope walkways are added to each spar. Whilst the smaller cannon have their mounts replaced, the larger guns only have added detail. All four funnels have new vertical ladders, handrails and tops fitted. The unusual aerial walkway between the foredeck superstructure and the aft superstructure is almost completely replaced with new cross bracing, walkway, with railings and supports should be constructed before fitting to the model. The rest of the sheet comprises of more deck hatches, liferings, skylight hatches, boat oars, cable reels, rear superstructure decks, support bracing, inclined ladders and vertical ladders.

Sheet two is slightly smaller at 210mm x 95mm and provides more oars for the ships boats, a complete captains stern walkway that replaces the kits parts, ropewalks for the mainmast yards, eight replacement cranes with separate hooks, accommodation ladders, booms, and parts to replace and add detail to some of the kit cranes that are fitted to the central walkway. Right at the stern, liferings and their cradles are fitted along with what looks like a torpedo tube door. Railings are provided for the foredeck and quarterdeck, with ratlines to be fitted to the two masts.

Conclusion
This is a very comprehensive set, and it's good to have all the parts in one package rather than having to buy two sets to complete a kit. As stated above there are a lot of area on the kit which need to be removed, so care and patience will be required before even starting on adding the etch. There are also lots of very small parts, so a steady hand and some magnification will be needed. Despite all this the parts included in the set will really bring the kit to life and fill it with much finer detail than is in the plastic. I will certainly be using this set in a forthcoming build. Highly recommended.

Review sample courtesy of

[Arkady72]

On Friday I've received this set for my "Varyag", looking very good. Sheets are much thicker than usual sets for airplanes, it was very good idea.