The Tamiya F-16 series of kits are phenomenal renditions of the real airplane. There are multiple boxings. This particular set is designed to replicate the exhaust of the Pratt and Whitney F-100 Exhaust used on the Block 42 and Block 52 aircraft. They are externally very similar. The Block 42 has the -200 version and the Block 52 uses the -229.

Packaged in a sturdy cardboard box are two pieces of light grey resin inside of a resealable plastic sleeve. The two parts are perfectly cast with no blemishes anywhere. The detail on both pieces is remarkable.

The exhaust nozzle is a gem. It includes beautiful detail inside and out. Compared to the kit parts which only hints at the detail, the resin exhaust is perfect. There are beautiful exhaust petals and actuators.

The other piece is the afterburner liner. The kit liner is nothing more than a smooth surface. The real thing and the resin one has exquisite detail.

I screwed up slightly when I removed the afterburner liner from the casting block and damaged the cone shape middle piece. I will have to replace that. So just take care removing the piece from the casting block. It was totally my fault.

The pieces are keyed to each other so you can’t mess up. Just careful painting is all that is needed to bring this set to life.

Beautiful detail inside and out, which is a significant improvement over the kit parts, makes this set an essential upgrade. The difference will be quite noticeable.

Highly recommended

Thanks to Brengun and IPMS/USA for the review copy. You can obtain yours directly at www.brengun.cz or your local hobby shop or online retailer.