The feature article in October's issue covers modeling MBT's. The article starts off with the Tamiya 1/35th JGSDF Type 10. There are actually two more sections in this article that cover the Type 10. One is a build that was featured on Tamiya Live, and then a walk around. The other models used in the feature are the Xact 1/35th T-80U, Cyber-Hobby M48A3, Meng 1/35th AMX-30B, Tamiya M1A2 SEP TUSK II, Tamiya JGSDF Type 90, and Perfect Scale Modellbau 1/35th Leopard 1 Fruhe Baulose.

Following the feature are several short monthly run articles. One appears to feature a kit of 1/700th Russian Cruiser (had difficulty trying to get a translation). Next is modeling the JASDF. They finish up modeling the Hasegawa 1/72nd Mitsubishi F-1. The last of the monthly series is IJA/N Airplane Illustrated. This is an article that covers aiming devices through the use of color drawings or photographs.

The usual “Thanks very much” goes out to our friends and suppliers at Aires for providing us a brace of detailed, upgraded Mark 46 torpedoes – excellent parts as usual!

These torpedoes only took about 10 minutes to assemble; careful removal of the parts is called for, as the aft fairing and torpedo fins and propellers are extremely fragile, but they look great once assembled.

There was no filler required on this set; the keyed front body fits tightly into a socket on the aft section with the fins, making them a perfect fit. NO PE FINS OR PROPS! I was so pumped over this…

Quickboost has released a complete set of replacement control surfaces for modelers who wish to finish their Tamiya’s 1/72 Focke Wulf Fw-190A-3 with the rudder deflected and stabilizers dropped. These parts were available previously in two Quickboost sets (QB 72 309 – Stabilizers & QB 72 311 – Rudders). But, now Quickboost offers everything in one set.

The parts are cast in the typical Quickboost medium gray resin that is both flexible and resilient. Detail is crisp, with recessed panel lines that are curiously close to those found on the kit parts. It looks like Quickboost started with the Tamiya kit parts, cut them apart, and added a groove in the stabilizers so the elevators will fit properly in whatever position the modeler desires. It also appears that Quickboost added a V–shaped edge to a rudder that was separated from a Tamiya kit so it will fit perfectly against the fin after the rudder is cut away from the kit part.

• Four-brush set – stock # BRF-4P, $26.99
• Five-brush set – stock # BRUF-5P, $32.99

Flex-I-File is a company that produces many tools for modelers. They are known for their saws, sanding products, and the touch and flow applicator. These brushes are new product that they have released.

These brushes are handmade in Germany. Some real nice features of the brushes are the long, well balanced handle for the comfort of handling, and the triangular handles that prevent them from rolling off your workbench.

For my review, I was provided with the four- and five-brush sets, but the brushes can also be purchased individually from the Flex-I-File website.

So, how do you review a paintbrush? Well, you paint with it! Included in my review photos is a photo of a piece of plastic card that I used each brush on to show off the capabilities of that particular brush.

• Parachute # 1 – Stock # 32511, $9.99
• Parachute # 2 – Stock # 32512, $9.99
• Parachute # 3 – Stock # 32513, $9.99

MMD-Squadron continues to release unique parachutes in their True Details 1/32 scale resin aftermarket parts line. The latest are three WWII Luftwaffe aircrew parachutes, sculpted to represent how aircrew chutes would appear in pre- or post-mission repose with integral pack, cushion, harness, and hardware seen in something of a heap. These parachutes would be a perfect diorama accent for any WWII Luftwaffe aircraft model, posed in the way parachutes were typically placed strategically on the wings or stabilizers of aircraft prior to a mission so pilots could quickly suit-up for a takeoff…or the way they would appear casually left on the wing. They are molded in gray resin on a very thin amount of molding scrap. These parachutes are well sculpted with an amazing amount of detail that makes for a very realistic replica.