Fran

me too!!! Right on my 2024 buy list.... Also the upcoming Eduard/HKM 1:48 B-17F "Bloddy Hundredth" edition.

Love it!! great paintjob!!!

1:35 “Gulaschkanone” WWII Mobile Field Kitchen LKW AHN 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. 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. 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. The Cabin is very simple as it should be. At this time, as seeing this plastic and wondering if all this fit together well, I decided to start gluing the cabin… 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. 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. Moving to the Goulash cannon, the assembly steps are an incredible 17 steps (I thought that could be lot less). As for the accessories, you got 4 flour bags, 10 canisters, 2 crates2 buckets and 2 jerry cans with great detail. As for markings, there are only two options: Wehrmacht gray and Afrika Korps after 1934 (dark yellow). The decals sheets covers AHN markings and all the accessories 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. 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.

1:32 Art Scale Kit Mig-21 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 Catalogue number200-D32078 Price: 11,60€ To order, click here. This sheet have 3 schemes options quite different between. 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 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! 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. Mig-21F Fishbed – part 2 – U.S. Air Force 4477.th TES (TAC) unit 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. 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. Francisco Guedes .

1:32 Art Scale Kit TBD-1 Devastator 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" Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 1 – Battle of Midway – 4 June, 1942; 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. 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. Despite having six options, you only get insignias for two planes. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 2 – Kwajalein and Wake Island Battle of Midway – 4 June, 1942; 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): 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. 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. 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. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator– part 3 – pre-war period 1940; 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!! Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No.0294, VT-3, 3-T-14, Aircraft Carrier USS Saratoga, NAS North Island, San Diego, California, January 1938. 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. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, VT-42, 42-T-16, Aircraft Carrier USS Ranger, NAS Norfolk, Virginia 1941. 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; 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. Here, like the others, there`s insignia for two planes. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0331, VT-5, g-T-7, Aircraft carrier USS Yorktown, NAS Norfolk, Viginia, 1938. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator, Bu.No. 0318, VT-6, 6-T-16, USS Enterprise, December 1940, Hawaii Islands, Pearl Harbor. 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. Douglas TBD-1 Devastator Stencils 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! 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. Francisco Guedes .

1:35 Grain Thresher 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: 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. Also a small decal sheet and also a small photo-etched sheet. The resin parts are in tradicional grey colour. 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. The structural parts and subassemblies are made in the tradicional resin parts. These parts are perfectly casted with no bubbles or warps. The details parts like wheels, handles and others small stuff are made in 3D. 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. 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. The instructions are an almost step by step visual manual with parts identification. 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.

PLUSMODEL 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 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. They are 3D printed, truly hollow, and with good detail and good shapes, clearly being watering cans. And its use is universal! Beer Crates 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) 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 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. Universal plastic boxes Catalogue n.º DP3029 Price tag: 10,59€ Another generic set but this time, for more modern scenarios. Several plastic boxes, well molded and with excellent printing. Tool Boxes high And Tool Boxes Low Catalogue n.º DP3022 Price tag: 11,95€ Catalogue n.º DP3023 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. British Engineers Pulleys 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) 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. German Welding Kit WWII 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. 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. There is no decal or any indication of painting, leaving it up to the modeler how he wants to paint it. German Compressor WWII 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. The instructions are much better than the previous set, giving the different steps with the different pieces and their placement. Railway Guard House 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. 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. The resin piece is the chimney. The piece is complete, without flash and with very good casting. The 3D parts are very good printed with no printing lines and very good definition. The main parts, (wall) are made of lasercut balsa wood with 2/3mm thickness. Therefore, it is the structural part of the house. The windows and roofs are made of thick paper and very thin balsa, thus allowing good proportionality to the entire structure of the house. 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. The instructions are quite simple but effective. I only think that they could give a large sheet to better view of them. 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.

Its out from Hk Models. It`s hitting the shelves anytime now!

Hi Neil. You got some WWI tanks from Takom i n135 (also a Mark Iv from Tamiya) As far for armour car, just check Copper State Models as they have several armour cars in there catalogue and are very very good.

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

on sale this month!

Great work!! love the LWS!

Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I “Fighter Bomber” 1:32 Special Hobby 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. The hi-tech gives the modeler two photo-etched sheet, PUR resin parts and #D resin parts and a canopy and wheels mask. 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. 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. The second sheet are seatbelts, color ones also by eduard. 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. 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. In resin all the four 20mm canons, that have no sag and are perfectly detailed to be expose. Another add up in resin are the wheels. I`m sucker for resin wheels. They are always better that the plastic ones. 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. In these parts, we got nose top with exit for the guns, and cockpit details, like throttle consoles and control column. 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. 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; Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 6974, HE-M, n.º 263 Squadron RAF Angle Airfield, July/august 1942 Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 7102, SF-P, “Comrades in Arms”, P/O E.L. Musgrave, n.º 137 Squadron RAF; Westland Whirlwind FB Mk. I, P 7012, SF-V, n.º 137 Squadron RAF; 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. 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). 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. IMG_0086.AAE IMG_0158.AAE IMG_0162.AAE IMG_0164.AAE IMG_0165.AAE IMG_0166.AAE IMG_0167.AAE IMG_0169.AAE

Happy New Year To all LSM!!!!

An He-111 in 1:35!!! Wow! That some news entering 2024! 1:35 is very good to add tons of accessories for future dioramas!

Howdy! what is the model kit of the year 2023??? For me, probably the HK Models A-20G! it’s a fantastic kit making a new benchmark for HK Models.

1:32 Spitfire F/FR XIVe Cockpit parts Hi-back/Low-Back for Tamiya's Spitfire Mk.VIII and IX kit 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. 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. 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. 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 You will also get multiple handles and levers. They are very small but very well printed. The instructions are, once again, very intuitive and clever. The parts identification is very helpful dividing the parts by colour and letters. To help to identify the parts and their location, LFD gives several colour pictures of the real cockpit. Really nice! 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.

Merry Christmas to all LSM modellers!!!

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

leave it mate!

All right then I´m in with SBD-1/2 Dauntless Trumpter 1:32. https://www.scalemates.com/kits/trumpeter-02241-usnavy-sbd-1-2-dauntless--104366

News from Art Scale! A few new decals for the 1:32 Hurricane, Mig-21 and Devastator! Check the PdFs. And also several new masks and some 1:48 turnbuckles 200-D32030-Hawker-Hurricane-Mk.IIc-part-4-Albions-Falcons-Royal-Air-Force-final.pdf 200-D32031-Hawker-Hurricane-IIb-part-5-USAAF-sevice-final.pdf 200-D32032-Hawker-Hurricane-Mk.IIb_Mk.X-part-6-US-Eagles-final.pdf 200-D32077-MiG-21-F-part-2-US-AF-4477-TES-TAC-unit-final.pdf 200-D32078-MiG-21F-13-Fishbed-part-4-Izrael-Air-Force-final.pdf 200-D32083-Douglas-TBD-1-Devastator-part-1-final-Verze-02.pdf 200-D32084-Douglas-TBD-1-Devastator-part-2-Kwajalein-and-Wake-Island-attack-February-1942-final-verze-01.pdf 200-D32085-Douglas-TBD-1-Devastator-part-3-final-1.pdf 200-D32086-Douglas-TBD-1-Devastator-part-4-final-1.pdf

Thank you for the warning and Ernie to crrect it. Was probably the auto-correct as in Portuguese, Elizabeth is with a S... Sorry once again.

1:48 Ki-21-Ib “Sally” ICM Catalogue n.º 48195 € 54,20 – in Art Scale Kit “The Mitsubishi Ki-21, formal designation "Type 97 Heavy Bomber" (九七式重爆撃機, Kyūnana-shiki jūbakugekiki) was a Japanese heavy bomber during World War II. It began operations during the Second Sino-Japanese War participating in the Nomonhan Incident, and in the first stages of the Pacific War, including the Malayan, Burmese, Dutch East Indies and New Guinea Campaigns. It was also used to attack targets as far-flung as western China, India and northern Australia. The Allies designated it under the reporting names "Sally" /"Gwen". In 1936, the Imperial Japanese Army Air Service issued a requirement for a new heavy bomber to replace both the Ki-20 (Army Type 92 Heavy Bomber) and the Ki-1 (Army Type 93 Heavy Bomber). The design called for a crew of at least four, top speed of 400 km/h (250 mph), endurance of at least five hours, and a bombload of 750 kg (1,650 lb). The design parameters were very ambitious for the mid-1930's; few twin-engine bombers anywhere in the world could exceed such performance at that time. Both Mitsubishi and Nakajima were asked to build two prototypes each, a further proposal from Kawasaki was rejected. The Mitsubishi design was an all-metal mid-wing cantilever monoplane with retractable landing gear, ventral bomb bay and two radial engines. The first prototype flew on 18 December 1936, with the second prototype, which differed in replacing the dorsal turret of the first prototype with a long greenhouse canopy, following later in the month. In the resulting competition Mitsubishi's Ki-21 and Nakajima's Ki-19 were found to be similar, with the Ki-21 having better performance while the Nakajima design was a better bombing platform and had more reliable engines. In order to make a final decision, two further prototype were ordered from both Mitsubishi and Nakajima, with Mitsubishi instructed to change its own 615 kW (825 hp) Mitsubishi Ha-6 radial engines for the Nakajima Ha-5 engines used by the Nakajima design and vice versa, while the Ki-21 gained a revised glazed nose similar to that of the Ki-19 and revised tail surfaces. Thus modified, the Ki-21 proved superior and was ordered into production as the "Army Type 97 Heavy Bomber Model 1A", being ordered into production in November 1937. Production aircraft began to enter service in August 1938, supplementing and then replacing the Fiat BR.20 bombers which had been purchased as an interim measure. Several improved versions followed (see below) before the production of the type ended in September 1944. A total of 2,064 aircraft were built, 1,713 by Mitsubishi and 351 by Nakajima. The Ki-21-Ia was used in combat in the war with China by the 60th Sentai from autumn 1938, carrying out long-range unescorted bombing missions in conjunction with the BR.20 equipped 12th and 98th Sentais. The Ki-21 proved to be more successful than the BR.20, having a longer range and being more robust and reliable. Two more Sentais, the 58th and 61st deployed to Manchuria in the summer of 1939 for operations against China, with aircraft from the 61st also being heavily used against Russian and Mongolian Forces during the Nomonhan Incident in June–July 1939. Losses were high during early combat operations, with weaknesses including a lack of armament and self-sealing fuel tanks, while the aircraft's oxygen system also proved unreliable. The Ki-21-Ib was an improved version designed to address the armament issue by increasing the number of 7.7 mm (.303 in) Type 89 machine guns to five, and incorporating improvements to the horizontal tail surfaces and trailing edge flaps. In addition, the bomb bay was enlarged. The tail gun was a 'stinger' installation and was remotely controlled. Also, the fuel tanks were partially protected with laminated rubber sheets. This was followed in production by the Ki-21-Ic with provision for a 500 L (130 US gal) auxiliary fuel tank, fitted in the rear weapons bay and one more 7.7 mm (.303 in) machine gun, bringing the total to six. Four 50 kg (110 lb) bombs were carried externally. To offset the increase in weight the main wheels of the Ki-21-IC were increased in size.] However, by the attack on Pearl Harbor and the start of the Pacific War, improvements in the ROC Air Force caused losses to mount, and most Ki-21-1a, -1b and -1c were relegated to training or second-line duties. Front line units from mid-1940 were equipped with the Ki-21-IIa ("Army Type 97 Heavy Bomber Model 2A") with the more powerful 1,118 kW (1,500 hp) Mitsubishi Ha-101 air-cooled engines and larger horizontal tail surfaces. This became the main version operated by most IJAAF heavy bomber squadrons at the beginning of the Pacific War and played a major role in many early campaigns. For operations over the Philippines the JAAF's 5th, 14th and 62nd Air Groups, based in Taiwan, attacked American targets at Aparri, Tuguegarao, Vigan and other targets in Luzon on 8 December 1941. The 3rd, 12th, 60th, and 98th Air Groups, based in French Indochina, struck British and Australian targets in Thailand and Malaya, bombing Alor Star, Sungai Petani and Butterworth under escort by Nakajima Ki-27 and Ki-43 fighters. However, starting from operations over Burma in December 1941 and early 1942, the Ki-21 began to suffer heavy casualties from Curtiss P-40s and Hawker Hurricanes. To partially compensate, the IJAAF introduced the Ki-21-IIb, with a pedal-operated upper turret with one 12.7 mm (0.50 in) Type 1 machine gun, redesigned cockpit canopies and increased fuel capacity. Although used in all fronts in the Pacific theater, it became clear by 1942 that the design was rapidly becoming obsolete, and was increasingly shifted away from front-line service. In spite of its shortcomings, the Ki-21 remained in service until the end of the war, being utilized as transport (along with the civil transport version MC-21), bomber crew and paratrooper trainer, for liaison and communications, special commando and secret missions, and kamikaze operations. Nine Ki-21-Ia/b's were sold by Japan to Thailand in 1940 for use by the Royal Thai Air Force against Vichy French forces in French Indochina but did not participate in the French-Thai War as its crews had not completed training. Towards the end of the war, remaining Ki-21s were used by Giretsu Special Forces in strikes against American forces in Okinawa and the Ryūkyū Islands. One of the noted operations was an attack on the Allied-held Yontan airfield and Kadena airfield on the night of 24 May 1945. Twelve Ki-21-IIb's of the Daisan Dokuritsu Hikōtai were dispatched for a strike, each with 14 commandos. Five managed to crash-land on the Yontan airfield. Only one plane landed successfully. The surviving raiders, armed with submachine guns and explosives, then wrought havoc on the supplies and nearby aircraft, destroyed 70,000 US gallons (260,000 L) of fuel and nine aircraft, and damaged 26 more. A number of Ki-21-Ia were modified to serve as military transports for use by Greater Japan Airways, which was under contract by the Japanese Army in China for transportation. Designated "MC-21", these aircraft had all armament and military equipment removed. Used primarily as cargo transports, each could also seat nine paratroopers. Aircraft built from the start as transports were given the separate designation of Mitsubishi Ki-57, with equivalent civil aircraft being designated MC-20. Historical entry by Wikipedia. A video of Ki-21 Sally in action is not quite often. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9Mj3QEjfs8 Let`s take a look at the ICM Sally. Beware, this is not a 1:72 scale! It`s the brand new 1:48, all new mold, Ki-21 Ib “Sally” ICM boxes are quite sturdy, as the art design is just a cover top for a top-opening box, quite sturdy and resistance. It is a nice solution, and I believe probably a lower cost one. The box-art is quite attractive but that would be hard not to be as the Sally is a quite elegant aircraft (at least to me) Inside of the box, seven gray plastic sprue and one large clear part sprue. The gray plastic is easy to work with no being to brittle or not to soft. The fuselage halve is not in an entire piece, with the tail being separate. That is entire related with the difference between the A version and this version, the B as this one were made improvements to the horizontal tail surfaces and trailing edge flaps The main part fuselage has all the internal ribbing, in the cockpit area and all others compartments, upper gunner and bombardier compartment. The details straight from the box are quite good and it will make a busy compartments and a good cockpit. One very good thing that you see in all latest ICM models is the internal frame from the fuselage clear that it will assure you a good and sturdy fit. A few injection marks but probably only one will be visible, and in fact is very soft so no problem in removing it. You can see, in the inside fuselage, the rear fuselage door…. I would love to have the option to open this door. Could be an easy solution to give: an extra with a door so you could remove it for the fuselage with some right tools, with no worries in damaging the door as you would had another extra door to replace it. The tail and elevator fins, which have separate flying surfaces and rudder panel. The surface details on these, with the recessed canvas looks quite good. Moving to the wings. They come in two halfs, as usual, and have separate ailerons but not flaps. Inside the wings, in the fuselage connection there is the ICM usual connection sturdy system to help the modellers in having a quite easy fit between fuselage and wings. The surface detail is limited to panel lines that are very well defined and clean and a few raised panels. The wheels pit have almost no detail so there is lots of rooms to AM. The wheels are in two halfs… I really don’t like wheels in two halves but I got to give to ICM… These are a very good looking wheels with very good rims detail. The engine has a good detail straight from the box but as always there`s space for aftermarket sets. If this was in 1:32, I was all in for a engine detail set. In 1:48 and with in-box detail I will probably stay in the oob details which is quite good. All the parts are very fragile and with a very good detail. I`m in fact impressed with the detail that ICM can get from injection modeling. All the clear parts, and there are quite a few, are made with very good frame detail and they are in fact clear. And this particularly kit does have lots of clear parts but most of all, a lot of windows to mask. ICM gives the modeler a paper template in the instructions but its more than 120 windows. So, honestly, an AM mask it would be most welcome and a really really time saver. Althought is a nice touch from ICM. One single almost A5 size sheet, with all the markings, insignias, instruments and several stencils. The colour and pigmentation looks quite good. I think that they are ICM productions and they usually work well. Options given: There are four options on the decal sheet, all but one in light green-grey, differentiated by their unit markings, the final markings having a dense dark green squiggle camouflage scheme over the green-grey. From the box you can build one of the following: 1. 60th Sentai, China, 1940 2. 60th Sentai, 2nd Chutai, China, 1940 3. Hamamatsu Army Flying School, Japan, probably 1941 4. 25 Hikodan Shireibu Hikohan, Japan, 1943 The instructions is a booklet with good drawings, simple to follow and see where all parts goes. 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. The colour indication. I hear an interview of one of ICM CEO saying that ICM wants to be a all in company so all the ICM production is a vertical one, they made the CAD, the steel molds, the decals and now they are making also paints. So all the colour indication are ICM references. There`s not much colour indication (could be better) and the ones that are, are ICM color… For me that is a downside as ICM are not available worldwide as Tamiya, Gunze or AK. Conclusion: Finally a Ki-21 Sally in 1:48!! Its time to leave the Sanger one and tackle this beauty. The parts are very well mold. It`s really looks like a Ki-21. The clear parts, and this one has a lot of them, are flawless, absolutely gorgeous! So you can get a really nice model straight from the box with the well-known high current ICM quality, even without any extra 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. For a novice modeler, that can easily get Tamiya, Gunze, or AK paints, could be problematic to get the correct colour. For the experience modeler, that will not be an issue. 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 the review sample.

Excellent news!!!!