Little and Large

Here are two projects I've recently completed.  The first one needs no introduction, but I'll do it anyway.  It's Tamiya's classic Fairey Swordfish.  And why is it a classic?  Because there is practically nothing wrong with it at all.  One quick moan - the metal rigging set is not included in a kit that costs £60 - but the fit, the detail and the accuracy are all spot on.  Marvellous!

The second is an Airfix kit.  Yes, I'm building Airfix kits again!  And it's the new and very reasonable Typhoon in 1/72nd.  So what do you get for your eight quid?  Engraved panel lines, nice cockpit, detailed canon and gear bays. and a great decal sheet with two schemes.  Any problems?  An odd wings-to-fuselage fit but that's it.  I was so taken with it that I went a bit mad.  Full rivet job, extra cockpit detail, seat belts, levers, that kind of thing.  Oh yes, and I spent eight days on it!  In my defence, see the photos.  It was worth it.  Lovely.

These days I'm taking Airfix a bit more seriously.  Hornby seems to have rejuvenated the brand.

Eduard's 'Spit'

Eduard has finally thrown its hat into the very large Spitfire ring and produced what is probably the best kit of the lot.

Inside their substantial and rather stout box is a Mk.IXc late, but it also has parts for the early version. Included too are outlines for alteration for their Brassin accessory items - engines, cockpit and flaps.  The kit may be considered a jumping off point that could end in a superb diorama, should modellers so choose.

There are five sprues, including one for transparencies, plus one colour etch fret, a masking set and two decals sheets. There is exquisite rivet detail, and finely engraved panel lines that even Castle Bromwich would find a hard act to follow. The instruction booklet is beautifully presented and concise, and gives excellent  detail for all six aircraft the kit allows you to choose from.

In my view, if Hasegawa released the same model today it would have half the detail for twice the money.  You don't have to be a big Spitfire fan to enjoy this kit.  It has a great deal to offer any modeller.

Kit for review provided by ModelsRGo