Master Model from Poland continues to expand its 1:48 Air Master line. This time with a detail set covering the weapons for the P-38 in an early configuration.

Master Model does not specify for which P-38 version this set is. The set includes .50 cal Browning machine guns with drilled cooling jackets plus early and late 20 mm cannon. Based on a quick review of my references that is correct for mid-production (-E/-F/-G) and even a few late productions (some –J/-L) still had the drilled cooling jackets too. Check your own references to be sure to which P-38 version is detail set is applicable.

Master Model does not specify for which P-38 kit this set is either. I made a side-by-side comparison with the Academy, Hasegawa and Hobbyboss kits. Below are my conclusions:

• Hasegawa: It is a drop in replacement. The metal parts are slightly longer than the plastic ones. Your guns would protrude a bit further than the original ones. I am not sure if the plastic or the metal piece is closer to the real size (in scale).
• Academy: It is a drop in replacement. The metal parts have the same size than the plastic ones. Likely this is the intended kit for this set.
• Hobbyboss: It will require modification to the nose. It would allow to back-date the Hobbyboss kit to an earlier weapon configuration.

As you see, you can likely use this set with all of the above kits. The metal parts are flawless and it would enhance the overall look of your model.

Highly recommended.