Eduard P-38J Superchargers & Gun Barrels (648791 & 648789 for Tamiya) 1:48

[Mike]

P-38J Superchargers & Gun Barrels (648791 & 648789 for Tamiya)

1:48 Eduard Brassin

 

 

Tamiya have a growing range of new P-38 Lightning kits in 1:48, the latest one being the -J variant, kit numbered 61123.  It’s a great kit, but you can always improve on even the best, most technically advanced styrene injection moulding with resin and other media.  As usual with Eduard's smaller Brassin sets, they arrive in a flat resealable package, with a white backing card protecting the contents and the instructions that are sandwiched between.  The printed parts are protected within by a crystal-clear plastic clamshell box that has a small sticky pad to reduce the chances of the parts moving during transit.

 

 

P-38J Gun Barrels (648789)

This set consists of five 3D printed resin parts on a single print base that has protective arches to one side for safety’s sake.  They are a drop-in replacement to the kit parts, and main part has a choice of three barrel jacket options for the left-most gun position depending on the fit applicable to your model, and a totally separate barrel with a larger diameter circular guard that ensures the barrel projects from the nose to the correct length.  Each barrel has a hollow tip to the muzzle, whether they’re depicted with flush jackets or the type that are stepped back from the barrel.

 

 

 

 

P-38J Superchargers (648791)

The Lightning had its superchargers prominently displayed on the top of its engine booms, so detail here is key.  This set includes two replacements that are printed at an angle on their own bases, supported by dozens of tiny posts with tapering tips to reduce clean-up work.  Once removed from the bases they are a drop-in replacement for the kit parts, locating on the nub in the base of the recess on the kit parts.  There are also two arches over the more delicate ends of the base to protect them from harm before you remove them for use.  This is one set that doesn’t have the sticky pad in the plastic box, as it could damage the detail.

 

 

 

Review sample courtesy of