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Thank you to Mr. Neil Yan of HK Models and the IPMS Reviewer Corps for the opportunity to review a wonderful new model release in large-scale aircraft. This final installment will describe the surprisingly quick last steps, and my thoughts and conclusions about this great kit.
The May issue's Cover article features the new Xuntong Tu-2T in 48th scale. This feature article serves as an excellent resourse for those planning to build the Tu-2T. Author and builder Marco Preto presents an in-depth review of Xuntong’s first release. Marco’s workmanship and skill are evident in the text and accompanying images. The article is a “must read” for anyone who wishes to build the Tu-2T.
This issue of SAM contains a “Feature Build” article and this particular article features the Wingnut Wings DH-2. Dai Williams does a fantastic job building up the WNW kit, sharing his techniques for shading and achieving a “translucent rib effect”. Being a fan of Wingnut Wings kits, and having one on the workbench at this time, I found Dai’s article timely and very useful.
As is the case in each issue of SAM, there are a number of “Compact Build Reviews”. In this issue there six CBRs.
Products in this review are:
Great Wall Hobby Mig-29 and Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) Landing gear for the GWH Mig-29 found at scaleaircraftconversions.com . Landing gear are available for $16.95, # 48213
The Messerschmitt BF-110 has received a lot of bad press in recent years, mainly because it was not able to contend with comtemporary RAF fighters during the battle of Britain. However, following the Battle of Britain, the type continued in production, and actually was quite successful in the close support role, especially against the Russians, and later, with more powerful engines as the “Gustav” model, as a night fighter it was very useful against RAF night bombers.
Bronco has joined the list of manufacturers that have released a kit of the venerable “Jeep”. I believe Heller was the first, then Italeri, then Tamiya (twice) and Dragon. This (by first looks alone) is the New Standard! Bronco of course calls it a, “U.S. GPW ¼ ton 4x4 Utility Truck” but it is a “Jeep”! The title was probably changed for fear of copyright infringement attorneys. The box art states this kit represents a 1942 Model and I have no idea of the differences between a 1942 version and other versions. However, the rear panel does have the “Ford” logo stamped on it and only about the first 1000 or so vehicles produced had this. At some point, the War Department had “Ford” and “Willys” remove the embossed trademark stamping. The same “Ford” logo is also stamped onto the tires. I have found out that the Ford version was called GPW, or "G-Government Vehicle, P-80 inch wheelbase, W-Willys Pattern".
