PJ Production has jumped in to help 1/48 Mirage III series model builders. This new release provides one Matra AS 37 Martel along with the pylon as featured on the Dassault fighter. This set is probably focused on the new Kinetic 1/48 Mirage III kits, but it should also work well on the Academy, Eduard, Fonderie Miniatures, Heller, and Hobby Boss kits; along with the older ESCI kit that has also been re-boxed by Revell and Italeri.

Notable is the re-sealable packaging that PJ Production uses that makes the parts easy to review and then stuff back into the package securely. You will want to be careful handling the rear resin fins as their small size makes them an easy sacrifice to the carpet monster. Painting instructions are included with the small instruction sheet. I found several air-bubbles in the resin parts, on the missile body. Gap filling super glue with baking soda quickly solved the issue.

Assembling the resin parts is fairly easy, with the primary challenge being aligning the fins. The Martel body has pre-drilled holes to fit the locator pin on each fin. I used a # 76 drill bit to open the holes for the small rear fins a bit larger to assist fit. I would recommend using a fine tooth razor saw to remove the parts from their pour stubs. The pylon does separate from the pour stub quite easily. The fins will take a bit more care due to thinness and delicate size.

Be sure to use your favorite CA (super glue) or epoxy, as the normal plastic glues or solvents will not react with the resin material. I primed the Martel and the pylon with Tamiya Fine Surface Primer and then followed with Vallejo white on the missile. The pylon was painted with Vallejo Metal Colors Aluminum. Decals for the Martel or the pylon are not included.

My thanks to PJ Production and IPMS/USA for the chance to review this resin set.

Recommended!