Master Model from Poland continues to expand its 1:48 Air Master line. This time with a detail set covering the weapons for the P-38 in an early configuration.

Master Model does not specify for which P-38 version this set is. The set includes .50 cal Browning machine guns with drilled cooling jackets plus early and late 20 mm cannon. Based on a quick review of my references that is correct for mid-production (-E/-F/-G) and even a few late productions (some –J/-L) still had the drilled cooling jackets too. Check your own references to be sure to which P-38 version is detail set is applicable.

Master Model does not specify for which P-38 kit this set is either. I made a side-by-side comparison with the Academy, Hasegawa and Hobbyboss kits. Below are my conclusions:

Aires has come out with a nice upgrade for the Trumpeter MiG-23 MF / ML kits with their Correct Tail Fin set. This set is specific to early MF / ML variants that did not have the leading edge extension (LEX) added to the front of the ventral fin. There are two parts in all, cast in a durable resin material. The Aires parts provide improved ventral fin detail especially for the pivot point that is exposed when the ventral fin is folded (landing gear extended) There are no supplied instructions; you simply swap out the kit provided plastic parts with the new Aires replacements. I’ve included photos of both the Trumpeter and the Aires ventral fin inserted in the Trumpeter fuselage.

Aires has molded the stabilizer and elevator perfectly in light tan resin with no apparent bubbles. The Aires stabilizer and elevator are supplied on a single resin sprue with thin resin attachments to the parts that should minimize any cleanup.

Recently Brengun has released a series of interesting accessories in 1/72 scale, most aimed at those looking to add a little something different and to spruce up the display of our recent builds.

This set fits squarely in that category and provides a set of wheel chocks currently used by the US Navy on its carriers and other aviation ships. The chocks are used to supplement the tie down chains used to firmly attach aircraft and helicopters to the flight deck when they stationary. The chocks are usually the last things removed before an aircraft starts taxing across the deck.