One of the latest releases from Eduard in their rapidly expanding Brassin line are a set of late wheels intended for use on the new Tamiya F-14A (kit 61114). Consisting of eight resin parts along with a set of masks to aid in airbrushing the wheels and tires, the set can be used to dress up the appearance of the Tamiya kit, especially for modelers that like the representation of weight on their tires.

This set consists of resin main tires with separate inserts for the outer and inner wheels as well as front wheels, which are cast as single assemblies. The Tamiya kit provides main wheels that are molded as front and back halves, while the front wheels are molded as single pieces. Assembly and installation instructions are provided on the inside of a bi-folded sheet of paper that include the calling out of only two Gunze paint colors, Tire Black and White

The detail put into the Brassin tires is very impressive with lettering clearly represented on both the front and main tires. As shown in a photograph, the Brassin inner wheels will align perfectly with the Tamiya landing gear, as the same layout is present as with the plastic parts. As an added bonus, circular masks are provided that allow for airbrushing the wheels and tires, and prevent the need to hand paint the tires after the wheels are airbrushed. I plan to paint my main tires and wheels separately, and then installing the wheel inserts after the paint is dry.

My hits for this set would include the representation of the tires with the appearance of some load being present, and the meticulous care taken to add the details of the lettering on all of the tires. The wheels are also beautifully represented for both the front and main assemblies. For about $8, this is a fantastic upgrade to what is already a great Tomcat kit. I have no misses to report on this particular set.

In conclusion, I would highly recommend this Eduard wheel set to modelers who are looking to replace the molded tires offered by Tamiya with some beautifully cast resin replacements. There should be no fit up issues when installing the Brassin wheels and modelers with some experience in working with resin parts should find it easy to utilize the wheels.

I would like to thank the folks at Eduard for graciously providing these wheels to the IPMS-USA for review and to Dave Morrissette for allowing me to receive this set. I would also send kudos out to the assistants in the Review Corps for the great job they do in keeping the Corps running strong and as always, my appreciation to anyone who takes the time to read my comments.