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Fran

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  1. 1:35

     WW2 British Army Mobile Chapel (35586)

    ICM

     

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    Catalogue number 35586

    Price: around 45,50€

     

    ICM has distinguished itself in the world of modeling for several reasons, including the quality and originality of its themes.

    Today we have precisely one of the new very original kitsA British Army Mobile Chapel.

    The model is a modified version of the G7107 WWII Army Truck that was release in 2021 but it´s the first time for us at Large Scale Model.

     

    The Chevrolet G 7100 Truck, 1 1/2-Tons, 4×4 was a short truck, just 4,38 m long from bumper to bumper, for 1,99 m in width and 1,93 m in hight, as much as a standing tall GI. It weighted just 2,100 kg, its nomenclature weight corresponding to its empty, body-less chassis jauge. Its useful Payload took place on its rear flatbed, of 800 kg (Ibs). The latter was enclosed in a classic folding panels, hinged below, and secured by simple revolving pins and chains, to avoid accidental release after vibrations on a bumpy roads.

     

    The 7100 was powered at the front by a Chevrolet BV1001, 6-cylinder in-line with overhead valves, gasoline-fed for a total capacity of 3,858 cc, or 72 horsepower. It was capable to giving the truck unladen a top speed, of a flat road of 80 km/h, for an operational range of 430 km. These figures varied with some specialized models.

    History : https://truck-encyclopedia.com/ww2/us/Chevrolet-G506-7101-1.5-ton-4x4-truck.php

     

     The package is the usual from ICM, with flip top cardboard with a separate card lid showing the artwork, a lovely artworks as usual.

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    All the plastic sprue are in two plastic bags with the clear parts in other plastic bag inside, in a total of 286 parts.

    Checking the plastic parts, the injection markings are very subtle and mainly in places that will be hard to see when build. It’s evident that ICM made the home work to make modeler live easier.

     The construction looks quite straightforward starting with the main chassis in several parts. Here the alignment must be crucial so that all the construction could be done in the correct stand.

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    The detail on the chassis is quite complete with leaf-springs fore and aft, cross-braces and rear towing eye the rear bumper irons, fuel tank, transfer casing and front axle.

     

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    To add up even more detail, a very good OOB engine is given. Only wires are missing. You can make a hood open with all of the detail showing OOB and it will be outstanding. THAT is to show how good the detail is directly from the box.

     

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    The cabin interior is quite complete with a nice dashboard, pair of levers, gear stick and hand-brake on the floor, three foot pedals and the steering wheel.

     

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    Now, the new part: The chapel.

     It is made in modular parts with separate panels, with great fitting, knowing ICM latest releases. All doors are molded separately, giving the option to the modeller to leave them open, that might be useful for some diorama ideas.

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    The level of detail into the interior of the chapel is quite good with  religious artefacts a pulpit and piano.

     

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    The modular design facilitates customization, enabling modelers to depict the chapel in various configurations, not only the one that is proposal by ICM…

    A first for me in ICM kits: The wheels are not vinyl!!! Perfect!! Now that’s the way! I still prefer in resin but if you don’t want to spend some extra money, you can use these one with great detail and with easy painting and weathering.

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    The decal sheet gives only marking option. Is a very small one with some markings, religious phrases, piano keyboard and a part of the bible.

     

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    The clear parts are exquisite and no distortions and perfectly clear.

     

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    The instructions booklet with 28 pages, is typical ICM instructions, very clear.

     

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    The only thing negative, for me, is the colour chart with ICM colour only.

     

    Conclusion

     

    Well, another great mode kit from ICM!!  This 1:35 WW2 British Army Mobile Chapel stands as a testament to the company's commitment to excellence in scale modeling.

    The lowdown, at least until a massification sales worldwide, is the colour indication, with only ICM colour, each are new and, for example, I never see how they work and how easy its to work with them.

    Whether displayed as a standalone piece or integrated into larger dioramas, the mobile chapel serves as a poignant reminder of the human dimension of conflict and the importance of faith in times of adversity.

    Highly recommend 

    It`s 9,8 out of 10.

    A great kit with very good detail even has plastic wheels; Downside: the colors indication.

     

    My sincere thanks to ICM for making this fantastic model kit.

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    • Like 2
  2.  

    1:35 “Gulaschkanone”

    WWII Mobile Field Kitchen LKW AHN

     

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    ICM

    Catalogue n.º 35415

    Price tag: 40,61€

     

    First of all, I would like to praise ICM's enormous work capacity for producing and launching new products onto the market at a very high rate despite being at war.

    And they launch esoteric products, with enormous quality, with exquisite detail and fantastic fit, all with enormous originality.

     

    That said, let’s see what we have here.

    A Renautl AHN Truck. Twenty years ago, I would say this truck would never see a injection model kit… so in 2014, ICM just told otherwise and I was very pleased that they did.

     

    The Renault AHx was a range of light/medium trucks with carrying capacities from 2 to 5 tonnes manufactured by Renault between 1941 and 1947. Various versions were used in World War II by the German forces.

    A Renault AHN2 at an Italian town in 1943, during World War II

    Prototypes of the first AHx truck, the AHS2, were unveiled by 1939. It was aimed at replacing the similar AGC truck (which had a maximum payload of 1.5 tonnes). The truck was designed to be used by the French military on the 2.5-tonne carrying capacity group, but it was rejected. The Wehrmacht in turn ordered the production of the model, reclassifying it as a 2-tonne payload model and naming it Lastkraftwagen 2 to. The AHN (4-tonne payload) was the successor of the AGR and was produced for the Wehrmacht with the designation Lastkraftwagen 3.5 to. The heaviest AHx model, the AHR, was produced with a 5-tonne payload and, as the two other versions, was used by the Germans. The Wehrmacht was supplied with about 23,000 AHS, 4,000 AHN, and between 1,000 and 2,000 AHR.[1]

    After the war, evolutions of the AHS2 and AHN (AHS3/AHS4 and AHN2/AHN3) with 2 and 3.5 tonnes of payload respectively, were produced mainly for the civilian market. In 1947, these trucks were replaced by the Renault Galion. The AHx cabin was also the basis for a 7-tonne payload truck, the Renault 208 E1.[2]

    The AHS has a 2.38-litre inline-four petrol engine (delivering 52 metric horsepower (38 kW))[3] while the AHN and AHR use a 4.05-litre inline-six petrol unit,[2][4] the latter with a power output of 75 brake horsepower (56 kW).[5] The three models had a 4-speed manual gearbox.[2][4] Both the Renault AHS and the AHN have gasifier-equipped versions using engines similar to the petrol versions. The AHS version (AHSH) has a power output of 35 metric horsepower (26 kW) at 2,800 rpm[3] while the AHN version (AHNH) has a power output of 52 metric horsepower (38 kW) at 2,800 rpm.[6]

    The AHx range has a cab forward layout, a design introduced by Renault in 1934 and gradually extended to all its truck lineup.[7] The AHN has a height of 2.6 metres, a length of 6.4 metres and a width of 2.4 metres.[5]

    (historical background from Wikipédia)

     

    Let`s crack the box.

     

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    This release is a compose model kit as the AHN truck was release in 2022 and since then saw several version and several boxes, even from another’s manufactures, Tamiya included.

    I really liked ICM boxes as they are quite sturdy and resistant. The box art is always a very appealing one.

     

    This specific truck is the AHN-2 that was release in 2022, and now ICM add a full mobile field kitchen and several kitchen items as flour bags, wood boxes, containers and buckets.

    The field kitchen was best knowed as Goulash cannon (“Gulaschkanone”).

     

    I never had the opportunity to look to the original release back in 2014 niether the AHN2 in 2022.

     

    So, In the box you got seven plastic sprues for the AHN truck (six gray and one clear part) and three for the Goulash cannon (one for the goulash itself and two identical for the kitchen accessories.

     

    Starting with the truck, I notice that the main chassis is made of several parts, which could make this build a little more difficult because everything must be proper aligned so all the rest of the model could be done in the correct stand. That should be not a problem to all but the very novice modeler.

     

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    The engine and cooling system is included which is a very nice touch and detail.

    One thing that I notice is that there`s no option to turn the front wheels like the latest offers from others Brands, namely AK Interactive. I understand that this model initially is from 2014, so I think that should be in mind of ICM for their next trucks.

     

    The wheels are in vinyl, which I frankly don’t like at all, because they are hard to paint and even harder to weathering. So, a resin aftermarket is most welcome here.

     

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     The Cabin is very simple as it should be.

     

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    At this time, as seeing this plastic and wondering if all this fit together well, I decided to start gluing the cabin…

     

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    I must say: It’s a gem! All is very simple to remove from the spure, easy and fits very very well and the plastic is quite good to work with.

     

    The rear bed details are of very high standard.

     

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    The skeletal frame of a canvas support could not be very easy to assemble but with care and patience and seeing how the cabin construction went, I think that would quite smooth.

     

    Finally, the clear parts. They are perfectly clear with no distortions whatsoever and no risks. They come in their own bag.

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    Moving to the Goulash cannon, the assembly steps are an incredible 17 steps (I thought that could be lot less).

     

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    As for the accessories, you got 4 flour bags, 10 canisters, 2 crates2 buckets and 2 jerry cans with great detail.

     

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    As for markings, there are only two options: Wehrmacht gray and Afrika Korps after 1934 (dark yellow).

     

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    The decals sheets covers AHN markings and all the accessories

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    The decal sheet is made in house by ICM.

    The only negative aspect that I can make of this sheet is that their no swastikas… the swastikas is substitutes by 3 lines… It´s no accurate and I really don’t like to “hide” the past”… But I understand the circumstances of today in Ukraine!

     

    The instructions is a booklet with good drawings, simple to follow and see where all parts goes. I will repeat my self on this. The first 3 pages and the last 3 pages are in satin paper. It`s usually like this (is the same in the Beaufort and the He-111) and I don’t understand why and I don’t see any reason for that.

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    Now the thing I dislike the most: The colour indication.

    So all the colour indication are ICM references. There`s not much color indication (could be better) and the ones that are, are ICM colour… ICM wants to have everything and I understand that and now having a wild range of paints I also understand that they want to promote their paints. Still I would prefer to have more colour indications.

     

    Conclusion:

    Suming up, it`s a fantastic kit right from the box.

     

    You can get a really nice model straight from the box with the well-known high current ICM quality, even without any extra aftermarket parts (resin or PE).

    The lowdown, at least until a massification sales worldwide, is the colour indication, with only ICM colour, each are new and, for example, I never see how they work and how easy its to work with them.

    It`s 9,3 out of 10.

    A great kit with very good detail OOB. Downside: the colors indication.

     

    My sincere thanks to ICM for making this model.

     

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    • Like 2
  3.  

    1:32

    Art Scale Kit

    Mig-21

     

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    Several Sheets

     

     

    Art Scale Kit (also known as ASK) is a model hobby shop but also a modelling tools producer, a resin 3D producer and also a Decal producer…

    So It`s a name that is getting really quickly on the top of the modelling world and I`m lucky enough to have another bunch of decals for review.

    Today, I´m going to review 5 (five) decal sheet from ASK.

     

    All sets came in a ziplog bag, small A5 size sheet with profiles colors instructions steps how to apply ASK decals.

            

    So let’s looks to the option schemes that all decal sheets offer.

     

    But first, one detail that I loved about. In the applying instructions, in all sheets, theres`a real photo of one of the airplanes that are represented on the decal sheets. I really love that "bonus"

     

    Mig-21 F-13 Fishbed – Part 4 – Izraeli Air Force

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    Catalogue number200-D32078

    Price: 11,60€

    To order, click here.

    This sheet have 3 schemes options quite different between.

     

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    A Mig-21 in Izraeli Air Force is quite unsual and for sure that would be a special show stopper or something to talk between modelers.

    The options are:

    - MiG-21F-13, no.007 (the plane obtained by the defection of the Syrian pilot. The aircraft was standing on alert at Hazor with the ORA Mirages of 101. Squadron, Izrael, Hatzor AF Base, June 1967).

    - MiG-21F-13, no.007 (shortly before the aircraft was handed over to the USA, Hatzor AF Base, Izrael, April 1968.)

    - MiG-21F-13, no.007 (exhibit of the Chazerim Aviation Muiseum in the Negev Desert, Izrae)

     

    Mig-21F, MF Fishbed – part 1 – Royal Canadian Air Force 441, Squadron RCAF

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32076

    Price: 19,80€

    To order, click here.

     

    So, this sheet is quite sparkle.

    A Mig-21 in Canadian colors? What? Even more surprised than with the anterior sheet.

    But is in fact my fault not nothing about it.

    Art Scale gives us a link for page will all the history:

     

    https://theaviationgeekclub.com/cf-121-redhawk-program-the-true-story-behind-canadas-purchase-of-30-soviet-built-mig-21-fishbed-fighters/

    I just love this little piece of history and I am already looking for a Mig-21 in 1:32!

     

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    The options schemes are:

     

    - MiG-21F, 59-315, CF -121 Stratocaster, 441. Squadron Redhawk, base RCAF Gold Lake, Alberta, Canada 1960.

    - MiG-21F, 59-328, CF -121 Stratocaster, 441. Squadron Redhawk, base RCAF Gold Lake, Alberta, Canada 1960. The planes in the Chatham camouflage.

    - MiG-21MF, 59-322, CF -121 Stratocaster, 441. Squadron Redhawk, base RCAF Gold Lake, Alberta, Canada 1960.

     

     

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    Mig-21F Fishbed – part 2 – U.S. Air Force 4477.th TES (TAC) unit

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32077

    Price: 11,60€

    To order, click here.

             Here, 3 schemes are given:

     

    - MiG-21F-13 (YF-110), no.80965 (ex Canadian 59-319), 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Tonopah Test Range Airfield, NV, 1960, U.S. Air Fore.

     

    - MiG-21F-13 (YF-110), no.80955, 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Tonopah Test Range Airfield, NV, 1960, U.S. Air Force.

     

    - MiG-21F-13 (YF-110), Red 85, 4477th Test and Evaluation Squadron, Tonopah Test Range Airfield, NV, 1960, U.S. Air Force, flown by commander Lt Col Gail Peck.

     

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             This sheet also give you some unusual Mig-21 schemes. Two Americans Mig-21 and one in Soviet markings and camoflage but pilot by an American pilot.

    This sheet gives you the possibility the build all 3 options schemes which is great!

            

    ***

    Analyzing the decal sheets, the color registration is great and a very good definition of the details. The decals have a thin film, in fact looking very thin and delicate.

    There is no indication where are they printed so I assume that will be in ASK house. The printing quality is quite good, as they are sharp, with outline very well defined. The color look quite good and spot on.

     

    The instructions are the general ones that are applicable to all decals, it is always important to remember the general principles of decal application. In this case, there is no specific rule for applying these decals.

     

    The profiles draws contains lots of information, with side view (both side) and top view with precise decal indication.

     

                Conclusion:

    Gotta love ASK endorsement and commitment to the modelling community in releasing these decals!!

    There`s a lot to choose from and always with great printing and fantastic color pigmentation.

     The location indication of the decals is quite good and very perceptible.

    The decals as already said, have a very good colour registration, very thin, with minimum decal film, and they work quite nice!

    And these Mig-2 are definitely different and will be a show stopper for sure.

     My thanks to Art Scale for producing these fantastic decals.

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    Francisco Guedes

     

     

     

     

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    • Like 1
  4.  

     

    1:32

    Art Scale Kit

    TBD-1 Devastator

    Several Sheets

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    Art Scale Kit (also known as ASK) is a model hobby shop but also a modelling tools producer, a resin 3D producer and also a Decal producer…

    So It`s a name that is getting really quickly on the top of the modelling world and I`m lucky enough to have another bunch of decals for review.

    Today, I´m going to review 5 (five) decal sheet from ASK.

     

    All sets came in a ziplog bag, small A5 size sheet with profiles colors instructions steps how to apply ASK decals.

            

    So let’s looks to the option schemes that all decal sheets offer.

     

    But first, one detail that I loved about. In the applying instructions, in all sheets, theres`a real photo of one of the airplanes that are represented on the decal sheets. I really love that "bonus"

     

    Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 1 – Battle of Midway – 4 June, 1942;

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32083

    Price: 12,00€

    To order, click here.

     

    This sheet have 6 options for the same schemes. It’s a fantastic historical schemes sheet to all Midway and WWII lovers.

     

    1. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0286,VT-3, pilot CAP W.G. Esders, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM2c B.Brazier, after shooting down Lt.Cdr. E.F. Lindsey Esders leads attack on aircraft carrier KAGA, the crew was killed in this action. Aircraft Carrier USS Yorktown.
    2. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0279,VT-6, pilot Ens.E. Heck Jr., Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM3c D.I.Richey, the only crew with returned from the attack on the Aircraft Carrier KAGA. Aircraft Carrier USS Enterprise. 
    3. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0289,VT-6 pilot Lt Cdr. F.E. Lindsey, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ACRM C.T.Crenat.Richey, commander of attack on Aircraft Carrier KAGA, the crew was killed in this attack. Aircraft Carrier USS Enterprise.
    4. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 1506,VT-8, pilot Lt Cdr. J.C.Waldron, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ACRM H.F.Dobbs, commander of attack on Aircraft Carrier Soryu, the crew was killed in this action. Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet.
    5. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 1518,VT-8, pilot Ens.G.H.Gay., Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM3c R.K.Huntington, Ens Gay was the only surviving member of VT-8 Squadron during the attack on the Aircraft Carrier Soryu. Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet.
    6. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0308,VT-8, pilot Lt.J.D. Woodson, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM2c O.D.Creasy Jr., the crew was killed the attack on the Aircraft Carrier Soryu. Aircraft Carrier USS Hornet.

     

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    Despite having six options, you only get insignias for two planes.

     

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    Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 2 – Kwajalein and Wake Island Battle of Midway – 4 June, 1942;

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    Catalogue number200-D32084

    Price: 12,00€

    To order, click here.

     

    So this sheet is not very different from the previous one but at least the schemes are a bit different and you also get only 3schemes (you only have insignias for two):

    1. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0294,VT-6, pilot Lt.R.E. Laub, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM1c W.C.Humphrey, crew took part in a bombing attack on the Wake Island. Aircraft Carrier USS Enterprise.
    2. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0367,VT-6, pilot Ens.W.W Creamer, Radio Operator/rear Gunner RM3c W.F.Glenn, crew took part in a bombing attack on the Wake Island. Aircraft USS Carrier Enterprise.
    3.  Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 1505,VT-6, pilot Lt.D.M.White, Radio Operator/rear Gunner ARM2c J.U.Laney, crew took part in a torpedo attack on the Kwajalein Island. Aircraft Carrier USS Enterprise.

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    Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 3 – pre-war period 1940;

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32085

    Price: 18,30€

    To order, click here.

     

             Now, the pre-war schemes. At least for me, these schemes are much more appealing in the Devastator!!

     

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    1. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No.0294, VT-3, 3-T-14, Aircraft Carrier USS Saratoga, NAS North Island, San Diego, California, January 1938.
    2. Douglas TBD1 Devastator, Bu.No.0299, VS-71, 71-S-16, pilot Lt.B.V.Clark, Radio Operator/rear Gunner H.G.Bradshaw, Aircraft Carrier USS Wasp, Atlantic, 23.05.1941.
    3. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, VT-42, 42-T-16, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger, NAS Norfolk, Virginia 1941.

     

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             The second scheme, pilot V Clark  and Radio-Operator Bradschaw, is my favorite with a black tail and yellow wings!

     

    Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 4 – pre-war period 1940;

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32086

    Price: 18,30€

    To order, click here.

     

             This sheet is the most colorful one. All have very good nose arts and all tail are painted in bright color. Of all sheets, this, for me, is my favourite.

     

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             Here, like the others, there`s insignia for two planes.

    1. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0331, VT-5, g-T-7, Aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, NAS Norfolk, Viginia, 1938.
    2. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0318, VT-6, 6-T-16, USS Enterprise, December 1940, Hawaii Islands, Pearl Harbor.
    3.  Douglas TBD1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0300, VT-2, 2-T-1, pilot commander VT-2 Lt.Cdr.W. Stinson, Aircraft Carrier Lexington, San Diego, California 1938.

     

     

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    Douglas TBD-1 Devastator Stencils

     

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    Catalogue number200-D32087

    Price: 8,10€

    To order, click here.

     

    Now, the sheet that every modeler that have a Devastator in the stash must have. Stencils!

     

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    The stencils are very thin, with small decal film on the edge to prevent to maximum silvering and not blurry, being quite comprehensive.

     

    **

    Analyzing the decal sheets, the color registration is great and a very good definition of the details. The decals have a thin film, in fact looking very thin and delicate.

    There is no indication where are they printed so I assume that will be in ASK house. The printing quality is quite good, as they are sharp, with outline very well defined. The color look quite good and spot on.

     

    The instructions are the general ones that are applicable to all decals, it is always important to remember the general principles of decal application. In this case, there is no specific rule for applying these decals.

     

    The profiles draws contains lots of information, with side view (both side) and top view with precise decal indication.

     

                Conclusion:

    ASK is a firm manufacture now when it comes to decals!

    There`s a lot to choose from and always with great printing and fantastic color pigmentation.

     The location indication of the decals is quite good and very perceptible.

    The decals as already said, have a very good colour registration, very thin, with minimum decal film, and they work quite nice!

    So all Devastator lovers must one at least one of these sheets.

     

     My thanks to Art Scale for producing these fantastic decals.

     

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    Francisco Guedes

     

     

     

     

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    • Thanks 4
  5.  

     

    1:35 Grain Thresher

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    Plusmodel
    Catalogue #585
    Available from Plusmodel for 86,88

     

    Plusmodel always had a touch of creativity and boldness when they choose their subjects to be release.

    But I confess that when I got this model kit I wonder: “What the hell is this??”

     

    Plusmodel gives a brief introduction saying “a grain thresher was a machine used by farmers in 1920s and 1950s, when were no combine harvesters when harvesting grain. Our model represents a more advanced and for its time expensive variant.”

     

    Well I start looking on the internet and didn’t found nothing like this treshing machine that is represented by Plusmodel

    Until, cheing carfully in the box, I found the manufacture on the decals - HOFHERR SCHRANTZ.

    And there it is:

     

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    Those pictures were taken of this website:

    https://www.muzejzeravica.org/en/item/196

    Amazingly, I also found a video with this grain tresher (or treshing machine) at full work!

     

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M-m-dLnv3GU

     

    So, this machine was made by Hofherr Schrantz Clayton Shuttleworth, from Budapest, Hungary and it was produce in 1924.

     

    Now cracking the box, inside you will find a box full of resin bits, in tradicional way and in 3D way.

     

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    Also a small decal sheet and also a small photo-etched sheet.

     

    The resin parts are in tradicional grey colour.

     

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    The surface detail is outstating. Being made of wood, the main pats of it have the wood veins very soft but perfectly designed.

     All the surface details (rivets, bolts, wood veins) and manufacture logo are very well represented.

     

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     The structural parts and subassemblies are made in the tradicional resin parts.

    These parts are perfectly casted with no bubbles or warps.

     

     

     

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    The details parts like wheels, handles and others small stuff are made in 3D.

     

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    The printing on these is very good, with no printing lines whatsoever, and really good and detail surface detail.

    The intricate detailing of the thresher's components, including the drum, feeding mechanism, and collection chute, is truly great. Plusmodel once again has paid careful attention to replicating the authentic look and feel of a vintage grain thresher.

     

    The small PE is for the small hinges and other very small detail that make the difference.

     

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    The decals sheet is Plusmodel productions that gives you the manufacture logo and weight indication. It’s a small decal sheet but the detail is quite amazing with good color pigmentation and very well defined so its easy to see what is written.

     

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    The instructions are an almost step by step visual manual with parts identification.

     

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    There`s no color indication but honestly there`s no need of any. Its wood and steel basically.

    Although the decals indication is quite easy to follow and most welcome.

     

     

    CONCLUSION

    As usually, the quality is present in all Plusmodel items and this is no exception…

             This model is not for beginners but is a finely crafted model kit that brings to life the essence of agricultural machinery from a bygone era. Designed with meticulous attention to detail, this model captures the essence of traditional grain threshers, making it a standout piece in any diorama.

             Again with its great detailing, authenticity, and versatility, it stands as a testament to Plusmodel's commitment to quality and crafts-manship.

             And as always, this model captures the imagination and trans-ports viewers to a bygone era of farming and really inspired me with ideas for dioramas… As mostly an aircraft modeller, and with some new 1:35 options in the market, I already have some projects where I can put this beautiful grain thresher.

     

     

    Very Highly recommended

     

    Francisco Guedes

     

    Our thanks to Petr from PLUSMODEL for producing this beautiful kit.

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    • Like 2
    • Thanks 2
  6. PLUSMODEL

     

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    Diorama Accessories Sets and a Railway Guard House

     Available from Plusmodel for the prices indicated below on the text

     

     

     

     

    Plusmodel continues their quest in being one the brand that you have to consider when you think in dioramas. If your project is a vignette or a diorama, then Plusmodel is your solutions.

     They also keep the quality and originality of their products.

     

    All the samples come with the usual packing, in small paper boxes with the parts wrap in bubbles plastic.

     

     

    Water Receptacle

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3024

    Price tag: 10,86€

    In a diorama, the small details are the ones that give live to your work.

    And here several watering cans, in a total of 19.

    Watering cans of different shapes, types and dimensions. Watering cans for all tastes.

     

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    They are 3D printed, truly hollow, and with good detail and good shapes, clearly being watering cans.

    And its use is universal!

     

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    Beer Crates

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3021

    Price tag: 8,60€

     

     

    Now a set for modern subject, BEER! What not to like!

    This set is also in 3D printed (all new catalogue number start with DP is #D printed)

     

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    All the parts are printed in light gray resin and no warps, or casting imperfections.

    No decals or beer brands but are perfect cast and you got two different crates.

     

     

    Oils Canisters

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3028

    Price tag: 9,33€

     

    Another universal set that is useful in any diorama.

    Several oils canisters of different types and shapes, very well printed, and with different sizes and very realistic, with good surface detail and hollows, giving it the correct structure.

     

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    Universal plastic boxes

    Catalogue n.º DP3029

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    Price tag: 10,59€

     

    Another generic set but this time, for more modern scenarios.

     

    Several plastic boxes, well molded and with excellent printing.

     

     

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    Tool Boxes high

    And

    Tool Boxes Low

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3022

    Price tag: 11,95€

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3023

     

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    Price tag: 11,95€

     

    Here are several toolboxes of different shapes and sizes, whether low or tall.

    They are once again very well printed, without any imperfections.

    Looking at these toolboxes, I don't know if they could be from the WII period or earlier.

    They seem to me to be much more modern tool boxes and therefore only seem to be suitable for a period of time from the 60s and beyond.

     

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    British Engineers Pulleys

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     Catalogue n.º DP3027

    Price Tag: €10,45

     

    Well, are only four but it is a quite complex building with lots of parts, namely many screws and nuts. It’s not an easy build because you don’t get any instructions but a full image of it. So this set can`t be for a novice modeler at all but expert modeler (or a high intermediate modeler)

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    The detail, once again is impressing and everything and these can by use almost in every diorama with British recovery vehicle or in a workshop.

     

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    German Welding Kit WWII

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    Catalogue n.º DP3026

    Price tag: 12,30€

     

    This set is perfect for any WWII period workshop.

     

    With this set, the modeler receives two gas cylinders, a welding system, valves and respective tools and the respective box to place the tools.

     

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    The instructions are sparse, you must follow the small instructions on the small instruction sheet and the rest must be observed by the box art that has the entire kit built.

     

     

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    There is no decal or any indication of painting, leaving it up to the modeler how he wants to paint it.

     

    German Compressor WWII

     

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    Catalogue n.º DP3025

    Price tag: 12,37€

     

    This set is complementary to the previous set, being certain that both live well without each other.

    The set consists of 10 pieces, and the reservoir comes in a single piece, brilliantly printed in 3D with no printing line or flash.

    The motor system is very well detailed.

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    The instructions are much better than the previous set, giving the different steps with the different pieces and their placement.

     

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    Railway Guard House

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    Catalogue n.º 593

    Price tag: €53,60

     

    And the top model of this review: the Railway Guard House.

     

    I was quite surprise about the content of this release as its quite complete and a very unusual set.

     

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    Perfect to all 1:35 rail scenario, specially with the new releases that are popping in 1:35, either AFV or AIR.

     

    So, this set is compose with wooden laser-cut parts, one resin parts and several 3D printing parts.

     

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    The resin piece is the chimney. The piece is complete, without flash and with very good casting.

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    The 3D parts are very good printed with no printing lines and very good definition.

     

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    The main parts, (wall) are made of lasercut balsa wood with 2/3mm thickness. Therefore, it is the structural part of the house.

     

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    The windows and roofs are made of thick paper and very thin balsa, thus allowing good proportionality to the entire structure of the house.

     

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    There`s also a paper sheet with colored signs that you need to cut to the correct size. For the colored signs Plusmodel gives 4 toothpicks to use with the signs.

     

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    The instructions are quite simple but effective. I only think that they could give a large sheet to better view of them.

     

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    Conclusion

     

    Once again, Plusmodel sets are very good and it`s a secure bet to all modellers that want to add up a little their work or adventure themselves to diorama world.

    These sets just have everything for your diorama: quality, easy to construct, originality and good prices.

     

     

    VERY HIGHLY RECOMMEND

     

    Our truly thanks to Plusmodel for making theses sets.

     

     

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  7.  

    Fokker F.I/DR.I.
    By Ray Rimmel with Richard Alexander
    Volume two
    Anthology Series

     

     

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    Available at http://www.windsockdatafilespecials.co.uk/

     

     

             The new Windsock book is the second most expecting one by Ray Rimmel, as the first one was the first volume of the Fokker Dr. I anthology.

    As it happen in the Vol. I, this one also has Richard Alexander collaboration, former Wingnut Wings General Manager.

     

                This volume is the ending part of the a true Fokker Dr.I must have to all modellers as once again is dedicated entirely to Meng Fokker DrI in 1:32 and 1:24 scale.

     

                This volume does have an 1:24 Fokker Dr.I in full dept step by step construction.

     

                On the cover, it’s an 1:24 Meng Fokker Dr.I, made by Ray Rimmel with the markinf of the Jasta 14 Stafellfüher Ltn.d.R. Johannes (Hans) Werner`s reverse aircraft Dr. I 588/17.

     

               

    So, on this second volume of the mythic Fokker Dr. I, it`s offer to the modeler and reader:

    ü  1F.I 103/17, 23 September 1917 – 1:32 upgrade;

    ü  Dreideckers by numbers – 19 new color profiles;

    ü  Dr. I 204/17, 9 March 198 – 1:32 build;

    ü  The TVAL Rotary Club – reverse engineering;

    ü  Dr. I 425/17, 21 April 1918 – 1:32 upgrade;

    ü  Dr. I 574/17, Summer 1918 – 1:32 upgrade;

    ü  Jasta 14 Archiv;

    ü  Dr. I 558/17, 9 June 1918- 1:24 build

    ü  Fokker Dr. I Folios II – more timeless treasures;

    ü  Addenda to Volume I

     

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    With 74 pages on gloss paper of which at first glance has the typical structure and winner receipt of the previous datafiles but with almost the double of pages of a normal datafile.

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    In the opening (back of the cover), as usual, a fantastic profile by unique and unmistakable Ronny Bar. The particularly profile is from Fokker F.1 103/17, flown the famous Werner Voss.

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    On this volume, Ronny Bar gives 20 new beautiful profiles as usual thah has the background history and real pictures of real aircraft.

    To complete such information, Ray gives the modeler, in every single one, an information of what parts to use (required parts), available in the box (1:32 and 1:24 models), to get an accurate model. Is a fantastic information and very usefull to the modeler that want to make any of these profiles.

     

      All the builds made by Ray are almost with step-by-step, with fantastic pics and very good tips and fantastic craftmanship.

    All steps are cover with a full text explanation and several pictures of the ongoing build with close-ups and real pictures in detail to help the modeler out with location and specially, with detail.

     

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                Conclusion:

     Got no more words to said! It`s a fantastic little book of the Fokker Dr.I !

    It`s simply a must have to all WWI models and to modeler in general!!  A Fokker Dr.I is a must in any aircraft collection!

    Do yourself a favor and get Fokker Dr. I Vol. I and Vol II!

     

    Very Highly recommend.

    My sincere thanks to Ray Rimmel and Windsock for making this fantastic book..

     

     

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    • Thanks 1
  8. Westland Whirlwind

    FB Mk. I

    “Fighter Bomber”

    1:32

    Special Hobby

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    Catalogue number SH32088

    Price range: €93,00

     

    This is not the first time that we, at LSM have the honour to have a 1:32 Special Hobby Westland Whirlwind in review.

    Back in 2021, Our James Hatch review the Special Hobby brand new release standard release of this beautiful twin-engine fighter.

    You can see his outstanding review right here.

    I will leave the historical introduction as you can read it in the hyperlink given.

     

    Today, we got the hi-tech version that has everything from the standard version, with a lots of goodies made by Special Hobby (and CMK) all inside the box.

    So the plastic parts are the same as James`s review. However I will absent of talking about them as James said everything but I put some pictures here of them.

     

     

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    The hi-tech gives the modeler  two photo-etched sheet, PUR resin parts and #D resin parts and a canopy and wheels mask.

     

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    Starting from these, there`s two masks – one for the canopy and other for the wheels.

    The canopy one gives the cover along the frame and for the windshield, full cover mask of the windows. To noted that these masks are for the outside and also inside, which, for me, is quite relevant in 1:32 scale specially for those aircraft to post in open canopy.

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    For wheels you get hub masks.

     The main PE sheet is in brass made by Eduard (so quality is not an issue) with some radiator grill ,handles and levers, and nose plate for the guns.

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    The second sheet are seatbelts, color ones also by eduard.

     

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    The resin parts and 3 D parts, are, for me, the real gem of this release.

     

    The polyuteran one, are in gray resin, and, as usual of CMK (Special Hobby) are perfectally cast, with no bubble at all, and with some beautifull surface detail Top noch as usual.

     

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    The new entire nose isa fantastic craft pice. To instally this one you need to make a big but straightforward surgery on the fuselage removing carfully the entire nose… The fuselage will be with no nose and the end part will be quite fragile… So should be handle carefully.

     

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    In resin all the four 20mm canons, that have no sag and are perfectly detailed to be expose.

     

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    Another add up in resin are the wheels. I`m sucker for resin wheels. They are always better that the plastic ones.

     

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    Now the 3D printed resin parts, that come in orange.

    Not a familiar color for resin parts, so I don’t know how it could affect the paint on top of it. Probably a resin gray primer would solve it.

     

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    In these parts, we got nose top with exit for the guns, and cockpit details, like throttle consoles and control column.

     

     

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    Mainly the rest of the parts are to the nose armament to let you make an open nose like the ammunition drums and cannon structure.

      

    The clear parts are very well molded with good frames delimitation and also good clearance and transparency.

     

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    As for the markings, it offer four markings options on the decal sheet:

    Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 7094, HE-T, “Bellows”, n.º 263 Squadron RAF Warmwell Airfield, beginning of 1943;

     

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    Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 6974, HE-M, n.º 263 Squadron RAF Angle Airfield, July/august 1942

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    Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 7102, SF-P, “Comrades in Arms”, P/O E.L. Musgrave, n.º 137 Squadron RAF;

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    Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 7012, SF-V, n.º 137 Squadron RAF;

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    The decals look quite good with good definition and color pigmentation. I don’t know who printed them as its no reference at all of the manufacture so I don’t know how they will work out.

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     The instruction are a booklet with 20 pages, in satin paper, with good drawings and location parts and even with aftermarket suggestion  (of their brand) along the way (nice Special Hobby).

     

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    The painting indication given are only for Gunze Sangyo.

     

     

     

    Conclusion

    What a kit!!

    I have soft spot for the Whirlwind and this model with all these goodies is a must have to all modeler that like, even just a little bit, the Whirlwind.

    The new parts are most welcome and being a limited run model kit and with all the resin, is not a beginner model. To be perfect, it only needs the engine!!

    Kudos to Special Hobby for keeping release these beauties of some more rare aircrafts!

     

    VERY Highly recommended.

     

    My trully Thanks to Special Hobby for making the model.

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  9.  

    1:32 Spitfire F/FR XIVe Cockpit parts

    Hi-back/Low-Back

    for Tamiya's Spitfire Mk.VIII and IX kit

     

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    Laminar Flow Design, 1/32 scale

    Catalogue n.º 32006

    Price Tag - €22,99

    Purchase directly at Laminar Flow Design website – here-

     

    Laminar Flow Design is a new company from Belgium for sure but it just shaked the modelling world with some fabulous 3D printed conversion with Spitfire F/FR XIVe conversions!

    Top notch ones, that I have had the please to review the Spitfire F/FR XIVe high-back conversion for Tamiya's Spitfire Mk.VIII/IX kit.

     

    Those conversions are perfec! They are indeed but I felt that something was missing because the Mk. XIV cockpit is not the same of the Mk. VIII, Mk. IX or the Mk. XVI.

    So Laminar Flow Design decided to give us a full treatment for those conversion, adding a new item to their catalogue, a detailed 1/32 scale Spitfire Mk.XIV cockpit upgrade/conversion for Tamiya kit.

    So I was lucky enough to got one of those cockpit conversion (in fact, I got two, as I have both conversion).

    As the conversion, this cockpit upgrade parts upgrade is delivered in a compact cardboard box packed securely.

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    The set comes in the same way of the big conversion – in a resin printing cage to protect all the 37 3d printed resin parts.

    In the box, you will also find detailed instructions.

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    So, as the others Laminar Flow Design products, the protective cage is essential to protect all the fragile parts. So, to free from the cage is very simple: just cut the four pillars at the base of the cage and the two centre pillars and everything parts will be accessible.

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    To remove the parts, just use a razor and a brand new scapel. I already separate several parts of the conversion and some parts of this set, and never had a problem with broken pieces with this method.

    So, what do you get as upgraded cockpit:

    • Hood control Lever & handle (low back)
    •  Throttle Quadrant Assembly (Gyro or reflector type handles)
    • Landing Gear Quadrant
    • Priming Pump & Bracket
    • Access Door & Crowbar
    • Port Side switchbox
    • Separate Rudder Trim
    • Waffle Foot guards

     

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    You will also get multiple handles and levers. They are very small but very well printed.

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    The instructions are, once again, very intuitive and clever. The parts identification is very helpful dividing the parts by colour and letters.

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    To help to identify the parts and their location, LFD gives several colour pictures of the real cockpit. Really nice!

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           Conclusion:

     

             Well, it’s the end of 2023, and for me, the Oscar for the best “Model Maker Revelation 2023” is obviously, Laminar Flow Design.

             The design of parts of the conversion is outstading. The same goes for this set.

    The detail of all parts in 3D printing are flawless! And the printing itself is one of the best in modelling market (probably the best in aircraft modelling until now, for what I have seen).

    This detail set is essential to all of those who got the LFD conversions (32001 and 32002) as gives a truly accurate cockpit of the Spitfire Mk XIV, giving the modeller everything he needs to get a truly fantastic model of an accurate Mk XIV.

     

    Thanks to Laminar Flow Design for producting this beautiful set.

     

     

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    • Like 5
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  10. On 12/3/2023 at 6:47 AM, Clunkmeister said:

    Met Mike Swinburne this afternoon for Tex Mex, raided Ernie’s stash, then beers at a lovely brewery.  He then pulled two beautiful kits out of his sleeve:  the brand new Westland Sea King, and the still warm from the mold machine Fairey Gannett, both by Airfix and both in 1/48.  Pics to follow, but ooooh what nice stuff Airfix makes today.  If you’re an FAA fan, this year has been a VERY good year.  

    TOTAL JEALOUS !! I would love to be with you guys!!

     

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