Fran

1:48 Conquerors of Europe`s Sky ICM Catalogue number 48324 Price: around 81,95€ ICM continues to launch combo kit set that are a very good option to the modeler. Today we are checking the 1/48 “Conquerors of Europe’s Sky” combo set (catalog number 48324) that includes three iconic World War II aircraft: the B-26C Marauder, P-51D Mustang, and Spitfire Mk.XVI. So, three models in one box and its quite bix box. Packaging is typical ICM latest, each kit is served in the separate plastic bag. There are 454mm and 362 parts for big twin-engine B-26C Marauder, 207mm wingspan and 136 parts for Sptifire Mk.XVI and 235mm wingspan with 80 parts for P-51D Mustang. Let's crack the box!! One thing curious about this set…. It’s the first time that ICM release a C version… This B-26 contains an extra sprue that doesn`t exist in the B version. As for the Spitfire and the Mustang, these are older kits. ICM has made significant strides in improving the quality of their kits and as we going to show the new release feature crisp molding. The ICM 1/48 scale B-26B and B-26C model kits are very closely related, as they represent variants of the same aircraft family — the Martin B-26 Marauder — with minor but important differences. In real life, the B-26B and B-26C were mechanically and structurally identical, with the only real-world difference being the location of manufacture: · B-26B: Built at Baltimore, Maryland · B-26C: Built at Omaha, Nebraska As for the B-26 B click here For the G version click here Now as for the C version, a new sprue. The K sprue. The sprue K provides the specific parts for this version, featuring spars for attaching the wing root, a new instrument panel, and the wheels' rims for the landing gear. This sprue is also available in the G version but not on the B version box. But for this sprue to make the C version you only need the wheels hubs a vent, a small gondola and boomerang antenna. There`s a different between these two and the B-26C as they are from older moldes when ICM was still growing to the actual quality and finesse. First up is the P-51D Mustang It comprising around 80 parts, this model is more straightforward to assemble of all three. It offers a detailed cockpit and well-molded surfaces, making it a favorable choice for those looking to enhance their modeling skills. Considering that the kit was released in 2001 as the P-51C and in 2003 https://www.scalemates.com/kits/icm-48153-north-american-p-51d-15--1080729 with parts for the D variant, the kit has held up surprisingly well and is very easy to build. Of course, the kit can't compete with newer Czech kits in terms of detail, but it can be assembled quickly: So The P-51D the parts have good surface detail but not as good as the B-26C. Also the sprues have a few flash that will take a bit more time to clean up. Now the Spitfire. The kit dates back to 2001 and has held up relatively well for its age - https://www.scalemates.com/kits/icm-48061-spitfire-mkix--211640 The spitfire has more in-box detail with a full engine. The cockpit detail is quite good from the box. As I said with the P-51, the Spitfire is much older than the B26C, Its not the new ICM detail level. Although it comprising around 136 parts, the build is quite straight forward and building the engine will take some time and I suspect that if you put the engine you will not close down the engine panels. You can see the age on the molds as you have some flash to clean. And there’s no location tip, as it’s a limited run mold, back when ICM use them So the B-26 C comes with Two Pratt & Whitney R‑2800 engines (27 parts each), offering impressive realism comparable to high-end kits. However the engine gondola panels are not removal. ) In the Spitfire you can put the Merlin full exposed. As for the instructions of all models despite Spitfire and Mustang are older models kits, the instrucions are in the ICM modern state with only ICM color chart and clear parts indication. On the B-26 instruction is provide a canopy mask templates. The clear parts, are much better in the B-26 than thety are in the Spitfire and the Mustang, so you can see ICM evolution along the years also in the clear parts. However, all the clear parts have no distortion or bubble but the B-26 ones are more refine and clear. While the P-51 model kit does not bring any engine, the Spitfire and the B-26 C gives the modeler that option, but only the spit you can put it in sight. The B-26 C also have a pitot issue on the wing and fuselage, that I mention before when I review the B-26B. For the B-26 C, you got a large decal sheet with very good color and definition. Despite being a combo box, ICM don’t leave the modeler with a single option in the B-26 C but all 3 options: 1. B-26 C-45-MO 42-107783 “Thumper”, 441st Bombardment Squadron, 320th Bombardment Group, France, 1945; 2. B-26 C-45-MO 42-17534 “Belle Ringer”, 441st Bombardment Squadron, 320th Bombardment Group, France, 1945; 3. B-26 C-45-Mo 42-107729 “Stud Duck”, 34th Bombardment Squadron, 17th Bombardment Group, France, Longvic, April 1945; As for the instructions, typical modern ones from ICM with good location parts indication and color references only by ICM colors. Moving for the little friends, The P-51D and the Spitfire Mk XIV. The P-51 only have a small decal sheet with a single scheme. P. McKennon famous “Ridge Runner” P-51 D , Maj. P. McKennon, 4th FG, Spring 1945 As for the Spitfire, a bigger decal sheet means that you have two schemes: - Spitfire LF. XVI E, 74 Sqn., Drope, Germany, April 1945. - Spitfire LF. XVI E, Sqn. Ldr, K. Pniak (7 victories) OC n.º 308 (Krakov) Sqn. England, Summer 1945 Conclusion Priced around €80–€90, the “Conquerors of Europe’s Sky” set offers a substantial value, especially considering the inclusion of three aircraft models being the new B-26 with 3 decals options. A single B-26 cost almost the same thing. This set, consisting of two older models (Spitfire/Mustang) and a brand-new kit (Marauder), is a beautiful tribute to all those pilots who risked their lives in WWII. Lest we forget! Highly recommend My truly thanks to ICM for making this combo box!!!

Ohhhh, we could have some beer or lunch!!! But Its very good to know that you loved my home city!!!

Great review and well explain the differences between the B and G version.

For me, the best! I have mine a few years now, and its the only airbrush I have for all work and works like charm!

Woooow... fantastic build and display.

Lovely work!!! Pelase keep posting!!

Nice to see you back!!

Some time as passed... Any news on this big bird?

Yes.... probably lets goes my chance of getting one Fw-189!!!

1:48 MH-60L Black Hawk ICM Catalogue n.º No. 48363 Available around 50€ at Art Scale. The ICM 1:48 MH-60L Black Hawk (No. 48360) and the ICM 1:48 Black Hawk Down, Operation Gothic Serpent are two model kits representing the iconic Sikorsky MH-60L Black Hawk helicopter used by U.S. Special Forces. Today we will be looking ICM 1:48 Black Hawk Down, Operation Gothic Serpent As happens before, this release is a is a rebox of the earlier MH-60L Black Hawk kit (No. 48360) with specific additions tailored to represent the helicopters involved in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu. This release is invoking the Battle of Mogadishu (that has happen as US Special forces undertake the “Operation Gothic Serpent” that took place in 3th October of 1993. In the Battle of Mogadishu, US Special Forces lost two Black Hawks, One was hit at 16:20 and the other at 16:40. Specifically, Black Hawk Super 61 (Thunderstruck) and Super 64 (Venom) were shot down, and Super 62 (Rude dude) and Super 68 (Razors Edge) were also hit with RPGs, though they survived the initial impact. The violence of the Battle caused several casualties in both side with 18 KIA for in Ranger and Deltas forces and more than 80 injuries. This battle was represented by Hollywood, as in 2001, its was release the movie *Black Hawk Down*. So this release is designed to capture the MH-60L Black Hawk used by the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), also known as the "Night Stalkers," during Operation Gothic Serpent in Somalia. For that, ICM includes new parts and decals to reflect the specific configurations and markings of that historic mission. This release gives the modeler two new sprues: K and L. Also will give you a lots of spares parts comparing with the original release where all parts were used in construction, on this box, a lot of parts are not to be use, starting for all the chairs on the compartment and other specific details or the absence of that detail. So in the end you get approximately 302 parts that is based on the base MH-60L kit, with additional parts for the Operation Gothic Serpent configuration, like FLIR, nose radar and internal fuel tank. The kit is designed to represent the MH-60L Black Hawk as used in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu, a pivotal event where the helicopter’s versatility and resilience were showcased. The decals and additional parts aim to replicate the specific helicopters involved, including their weathered appearance and mission-specific modifications. No much to say more about the gray plastic recessed and raised detail, the kit features accurate panel lines, rivet details, and surface textures that replicate the MH-60L’s rugged design. The rotor blades are well-molded and the landing gear is qute detail directly from the box, which is quite good. As for the interior, straight from the box, this model kit, as actual usual in ICM model kits are very good with instrument panels, control sticks, aand others small details. As for the instruments, also decals are given. The only negative parts is no seatbelts. AS for the clear parts, these are just perfect as all clear parts I have seen from Miniart. You also can be see here, in our review of the first ICM release of the MH-60L. https://forum.largescalemodeller.com/topic/20566-148-icm-mh-60l-black-hawk/ And also this one: https://forum.largescalemodeller.com/topic/20592-148-icm-uh-60a-black-hawk-defense-intelligence-of-ukraine/ So lets check the two new sprues. So the sprue K brings a new lower nose cone for marking option B (without nose radar, but with the FLIR turret), that meaning thati s for the Super 62 “Rude Dude”. Here on this sprue also have a modified left suspension for the landing gear, narrow parts for the early tail, and finally a different antenna for the roof behind the "disco light". So if you want a black Hawk from Mogadishu 1993, you neeed to pick up this release not only for the decals but also for the small and essencial details. As for the sprue L and checking the instructions, it´s some canisters and bags and also an additional internal fuel tank placed in the compartiment (which is only intended for Super 63 “Grim Reaper”). The decal sheet on this one is big one, with markings only for MH-60L Black Hawks involved in the 1993 Battle of Mogadishu featuring accurate unit insignias and numbers relevant to the operation. So, this first one is MH-60L Black Hawk 91-26324 (Super 61 “Thunderstruck”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The second one is MH-60L Black Hawk 89-26186 (Super 62 “Rude Dude”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The third is the MH-60L Black Hawk 90-26257 (Super 63 “Grim Reaper”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The fourth is the MH-60L Black Hawk 89-26188 (Super 64 “Venom”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The fifth option is the MH-60L Black Hawk 91-26363 (Super 66 “Gun-Slinger”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The last but not the least, the MH-60L Black Hawk 90-26288 (Super 68 “Razor Edge”) – 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (Airborne), Somalia, autumn 1993. The manual isntructions is a booklet of 20 pages with a small history about the Gothic Serpent operation on Mogadishu and step by step constructions with good locations parts and color indications. QR code is always a nice touch. CONCLUSION: Well, making this review made me watch the “Black Hawk Down” movie again. And also a great documentary on Netflix about Mogadishu battle that I strongly recommend to all even if this model is not for you. The model itself is fantastic in all terms (just seatbelts in PE, please ICM) to be build straight from the box. If you are a bit of suckers fro aftermarkets they are showing up several new goodies to make this beauty in a total showstopper. I confess I really love this one, and I going to dive to it asap to make a homage to the fallen in Mogadishu, Somália, in 1993. Thanks so much ICM for the piece of History. TOTALLY RECOMMEND!!!!!

1:48 DB-7B Boston III Hong Kong Models Catalogue number 01F015 Price: around 106€ I was very curious about this release from Hong Kong Models as I had the chance to build one of the first test shot of the 1:32 A-20 solid nose For me the A-20 is the best 1:32 model from Hong Kong with their surface detail and stressed fuselage so I was eager to see the little bother in 1:48. I didn`t saw live the 1:#2 HK Models A-20J but for sure the all the surface detail and stressed fuselage effect are present. Lets check out the box. My review sample is the special edition with the weight nose and metal landing gear. These two items are well worth it so you can have no problem with the tail sitter syndrome and also no problems in handling the plane with the landing gear on and be afraid in breaking it. And a fantastic paintjob in a A4 sheets This release is most welcome to all 1:48 modeller aircraft and to the modelling aircraft world in general because finally we have a state of art and modern technologic A-20 Boston. There`s a lot of sites with hundreds of histories of the A-20 Boston/Havoc so lets me skip that. Starting for the extra metal parts. As I already said, get this version as the landing gear in metal is precious as the construction steps are quite dangerous to the integrity of the landing gear. As it made , the landing gear goes to his place before the painting so it’s quite hard no to break at some point (I know I did in 1:32). The detail gear is quite complex in the construction and because of that it’s a bit fragile. With this, you are safe. The rest of the landing gear detail is great straight from the box, even the wheels are quite good oob. As for the metal weights, it’s a simply and effective solution without thinking too much to avoid a tail sitter. The kit comprises multiple sprues of mid-grey injection-molded plastic, featuring detailed surfaces with fine molded recessed panel lines and rivet details. In fuselage and wings. While the surface details are very good and the best one in any A-20 in 1:48, are not as good as in 1:32… Naturally I shall say because making stressed skin fuselage in 1:48 is probably, nowadays, not possible. That said, by all mean, the surface wings and fuselage detail are bad. Not at all. As I already said, are the best in 1:48 for any A-20 As for the bombay, if in 1:32 was the best bombay I ever saw stright from the box, in 1:48 is no different. The only problem: it´s a too narrow view of all the beautifull detail. The cockpit details are quite good straight from the box as for the bombardier compartment in the front of the nose. The cockpit and bombardier’s compartment are well-detailed, with accurate representations of the pilot’s controls, seats, and instrumentation. The inclusion of photo-etched seat belts enhances realism, though some modelers may opt for aftermarket or some scratch for super-detailing. One thing that will give modeler some work is removing all the injection pin marks. They are quite a few (probably I think HK models could have done a little more to void these ones) but they are simple to remove as there are all raised injections marks (much better to remove than the recessed ones) The engines… The exhausts system in 1:32 was a difficult and tedious task to complete… I was curious to see if HK Model would keep the same system in 1:48… and the answer is …. No. HK models simplified a lot, making into a single part! Thank you! I personally grateful for that as it was the most non rewards task in the 1:32 model And the exhauts on this release are also great The clear parts have no distortion and quite clear in fact. Specially in this release as the all nose is in glass. Also is given a small photo-etched fret that provides seat belts and internal structural components like a mesh to the engines gondolas. As for schemes options, a decal sheets if given with to option and a few stencils: 1. Boston III Z2216 RH-A, 88 Squadron, RAF Attlebridge, Norfolk, UK, August 1942. 2. DB-7B AL445 K, 15th Bomb Squadron, USAAF, RAF Molesworth, Cambridgeshire, UK, Summer 1942. The decals are printed with good color density and registration with two lovely nose arts. Decals are made by Cartograf so quality is guaranteed. , As for the instruction, and already made three Hong Kong Models, they are quite comprehensive with references color chart with Mr. Color, Tamiya paints. Conclusion Compared to HK Models’ own 1:32 A-20 Havoc that I already made, the 1:48 Boston III is smaller and less complex but retains similar attention to surface detail and engineering. No the same detail specialty concerning the stressed skin on the fuselage and wings, so the surface details is very good but no as good as in 1:32. Still is a fantastic kit with all the details in box is more than enough to be build a fantastic replica. It is the best Boston in 1:48, hands down… but also the most expensive one, hands down. This model is going to the top of to do pile! The detail out of the box is very good and it will make a very good replica. Highly recommend this to intermediate/expert modeler

I will keep you all informed.... But they don´t do aftermarket bits....

Well, the Portuguese figure manufacture RP Models is making something that its not historical figure... Yes, is a C-130.... I`m folling this very closely and I will keep all LSM informed! Stay close and following! Fran

And a P-51!! and a few more pics of the Dauntless