AIM-7E Sparrow’s are semi-active radar guided missiles and there were 25,000 of the “E” series produced and used extensively during the Vietnam era by all branches of the services. Eduard has produced a wonderful replica of the AIM-7E in their Brassin line in 1/32^nd scale. The set includes parts to build four complete missiles which can be painted in three different paint schemes (which changed over the years). There are four main bodies and four sets of the front fins all cast in gray resin. Lastly, there is a small photoetch fret which gives depth to the rear missile motor. There is also a full set of nicely printed decals.

Assembly is straight forward. Carefully cut the main body from the casting block. The best way I found was to use a photoetch razor saw and cut close to the fin until you reach the center. I then trimmed of the casting block down to the center and cut the final center section loose. A little sanding down and that was ready. The front fins can be cut loose or painted on the casting blocks. It depends on the scheme you want to paint. They fit very well.

I primed with Alclad gray and fixed a few little areas near the back I missed sanding smooth. I choose the overall white paint scheme with gray seeker head which was all painted with Tamiya gloss paints thinned with lacquer thinner. The decals went on perfectly and I added a wash of black and flat coated the missile.

This is a beautiful replica of a significantly used missile. Casting and detail are well above kit standards and assembly is about as easy as it gets. Highly recommended.

My thanks to Eduard and IPMS/USA for the chance to review these excellent resin offerings.