Eduard Bismarck Photo Etched Upgrades for Meng Kit - 1:700 Eduard

[Paul A H]

Bismarck Photo Etched Upgrades for Meng Kit

1:700 Eduard

 

 

Meng Model have taken a somewhat curious approach to their fledgling range of 1:700 scale warships. The kits are well made and nicely detailed, but are moulded in multi-coloured plastic and designed as snap-fit models. While that makes them seem somewhat toy-like, Eduard have clearly taken the view that enough 'serious' modellers will acquire and build the kits to justify the release of upgrade sets for them. These sets cover the recent Bismarck kit. 

 

Bismarck Photo Etched Set (53220)

 

 

As with any small-scale ship, there are an awful lot of fine details that cannot be replicated satisfactorily in injection moulded plastic. That's where Eduard's set will prove to be useful. The first set includes a range of small detail parts including the FuMO 23 radar, details for the optical rangefinders, small platforms, windlasses, the anchor chains and various other deck furniture. Also on this fret are a range of ladders and stairways, details for the aircraft hangar and catapault, the mast and the main and secondary armament. Splinter shields for the smaller guns are also provided, alongside details for the ship's boats.

 

 

 

Bismarck Railings Photo Etched Set (53221)

 

 

This fret includes a full set of railings and stairways. The railings feature a constant lower rail rather than individual stanchions, which will make them easier to fix to the model. 

 

 

Conclusion

 

Nothing finishes a model warship off better than a set of fine photo etched parts. With this pair of frets, Eduard have included almost everything you could want to complete the Meng kit to a high standard.  If I were to choose just one of these sets then it would be the railings, but both will make a positive difference to the kit.

 

Review sample courtesy of