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Review Author
Roger Rasor
Published on
Company
Aires Hobby Models
Scale
1/72
MSRP
$6.95

Aires now offers two types of resin wheels for detailing P-40 models built from 1/72 Academy kits (as well as those marketed by other kit manufacturers). By producing these two sets, Aires actually provides something for detailing all versions of the P-40 (and P-36) in 1/72 scale. Both sets also include pre-cut vinyl paint masks and painting instructions. The resin castings feature crisp details and are accurate representations of the real thing.

Set #7257 provides a pair of wheels with straight tread tires on the later style eight-spoke hubs that Curtiss introduced with the N model P-40. They are more accurately detailed than the kit wheels provided in the Academy kit…that have a diamond tread pattern. These wheels, in reality, were actually smaller than the ones equipped on all previous P-40 versions, but in 1/72 it is difficult to tell that the Aires wheels are the same size as the wheels in set #7258.

Review Author
Michael Scott
Published on
Company
Master Model
Scale
1/32
MSRP
$9.95

Although suitable for other 1:32 scale kits, this Master barrel set is aimed at the new Wingnut Wings WWI two-seater aircraft such as the Hansa-Brandenburg W.29 or the LVG kits. Meant as a turned brass barrel replacement, along with a carry handle, side bracket and sights in PE brass, the parts are finely made and, other than the two barrel parts, very tiny.

Installation is simple. Cut off the plastic barrel assembly, drill out an appropriately sized hole, assemble the brass barrel and cooling jacket and CA them into the hole. The rest is not so simple.

Working with the tiny photoetched parts for the carry handle, sights and side bracket is frustratingly difficult. The handle has little contact area to glue to the cooling jacket, once you get it bent into proper shape. Some reviewers have said these are meant to be soldered; I think that would be an easy path to madness,

Review Author
David Goudie
Published on
Company
Eduard
Scale
1/32
MSRP
$24.95

Editors note: This Eduard photoetch set is also contained in the recently reviewed Eduard Cat. #32679, also self adhesive. It is Fret Part 1 in the larger set.

Eduard Model Accessories has produced another fine set of photoetch parts to help complete your Supermarine Spitfire Mk. VIII. The set is for up-detailing the cockpit to a highly detailed replica of a Spitfire Mk. VIII cockpit. As an added bonus the parts on the fret are prepainted and have an adhesive backing.

Review Author
Greg Wise
Published on
Company
Fine Molds
Scale
1/35
MSRP
$82.95

History Brief

The type 97 medium tank Chi-Ha, designed in 1936, was the most widely produced Japanese medium tank of WW II. Its turret was fashioned with 26-mm thick armor sides and 33-mm on its gun shield. Its 57-mm main gun had already been proven in the early model Type 89 medium tank. It also sported a pair of 7.7-mm machine guns. Powered by a 170-hp Mitsubishi diesel it had a top speed of about 23-24 mph. Weighing in at 17.4 tons [US], it was the most effective medium tank the Japanese had.

Review Author
Jim Pearsall
Published on
Company
Dragon Models
Scale
1/144
MSRP
$15.95

This kit provides aircraft and markings for two Super Hornets, the single seat F/A-18E from VFA-115, Eagles, and a two-seat F/A-18F from VFA-102 Diamondbacks. Both squadrons are based at NAF Atsugi, Japan.

The Aircraft

The F/A-18E and F are redesigned, becoming the “Super Bugs”, larger than the F/A-18A through D aircraft. Other noticeable changes are the squared intakes and serrated edges on the main landing gear doors and several of the panels. These have reduced the frontal and rear radar signatures, making the E and F models almost stealthy, although not as much as the F-22 or F-35. One of the weaknesses of the early model Hornet was range. The E and F models overcome this by being able to carry 5 extra fuel tanks instead of the 3 carried by the A through D models.