Freedom Models JASDF F-104J / F-104DJ Star Fighter (162703) - Compact Series Freedom Model Kits

[Julien]

 JASDF F-104J / F-104DJ Star Fighter (162703)

Compact Series Freedom Model Kits

 

 

For many years the only game in town for the less serious modeller was the Hasegawa Egg Planes, and they are fun. If would seem that more manufacturers are seeing there is money to be made in the more "Fun" side of the hobby. We now have the Meng "Kids" series, and "Toon Tanks". Freedom models are now getting there leg in the door with a new "Compact" series of kits.

 

 

The Kit

This is a complete new tooling from Freedom Model Kits, the box features a double boxing of a single seat F-104 and double seat TF-104.   The first thing you notice on opening the box is that these kits are more like conventional kits than other "fun" kits. There are a lot more parts, pilot figure and weapons for the kits. Moulding is up to Freedom's normal high standard, Each Compact boxing seems to come with two kits, a single seater, and a double seater. Parts are also in this boxing for an RF-104.

 

 

Construction begins with fitting in the cockpit(s). These are pretty basic but up to the job for these kits. The cockpit section goes into the main fuselage which is split left/right. Intakes and their splitter plates are fitted along with exhausts (which again are fairly basic). The main wings and tail plane are then fitted. For the single seater a fuselage insert is fitted. The kits come with proper under carriage if you want to fit it or the doors can be closed. Also under wing tanks and missiles are provided, A single part canopy complete the build.

 

 

Markings

Markings are provided for an F-104J from 203rd Sqn JASDF, and a F-104TJ from 207th Sqn JASDF. The decals look like they are printed in house and should not pose any problems. Registration and colour density look good and carrier film is minimal.

 

 

 

Conclusion

While they are by no means difficult kits they are much more than other kits of their type, These should appeal to those modellers wishing to have a bit if fun and expand from Egg planes etc.  They might also appeal to younger modellers wishing to build less basic kits.  Highly recommended, if you want some fun!

 

Available soon in the UK from H G Hannants, with a 10% pre-order discount applying at time of writing.

 

Review samples courtesy of

[Dumbo]

On 10/30/2018 at 6:39 PM, Julien said:

Markings

Markings are provided for an F-104J from 203rd Sqn JASDF, and a F-104TJ from 207th Sqn JASDF. The decals look like they are printed in house and should not pose any problems. Registration and colour density look good and carrier film is minimal.

 

There seems to be some registration problems atleast on the national insignias...

[Julien]

1 hour ago, Dumbo said:

There seems to be some registration problems atleast on the national insignias...

Until I use them I will not know for sure.

[colin]

I think you can tell by looking at them, especially the Hinomaru now Dumbo mentions it