With a number of new-tool kits available of early Spitfires, Eagle Editions timed it very nicely when they released a new set of EagleCals devoted to the Mk.IIa.
Set EC#158 is available in 1:72, 1:48 and 1:32 scales, and Eagle Editions have kindly supplied the 1:48 sheet for review.
The schemes offered are:
s/n P8088, NK-K,"Bette" flown by Pilot P/O Alec Lumsden, 118 Sqn, April 1941
s/n P7833, PK-K, "Krysia", 315 Sqn, Summer 1941
s/n P7849, QV-J, "Armagh", flown by Pilot F/L Walter Lawson, 19 Sqn, June 1941
s/n P7308, XR-D, flown by Pilot P/O Bill Dunn, 71 Sqn (Eagle Squadron), August 1941
The decals provide individual markings for each machine, plus one full set of national insignia (with an additional pair of fin flashes) and stencil markings.
The decals are custom-printed by Cartograf, so the quality almost goes without saying. The items are glossy and beautifully thin, in perfect registration on the review sheet, and with minimal carrier film (on the national insignia, there is basically no surplus film at all). The colours look excellent, with a nice dull red for the insignia, and the opacity looks good on the sheet - although, of course, the only true test will be to apply the decals.
A small supplementary sheet of squadron codes looks at first as though it’s due to an error - but, in fact, it’s a very nice touch, offering an alternative hue for Sky to match Humbrol’s paints. With so many variations in the colour, particularly at this early stage of its use, having the choice is very welcome.
The instructions feature high quality colour side profiles by Thomas A. Tullis, plus simpler top and bottom views, along with a handy stencil placement guide. Each scheme is described concisely, with colour call-outs and dimensions for the insignia. A reference is given in most cases so you can refer to photos of the original aircraft.
The set can be purchased direct from Eagle Editions, priced as follows:
1:72 - $12.50
1:48 - $16.00
1:32 - $19.50
This looks to be an excellent set that deserves to be very popular.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.
SUMMARY
Highs: Superbly printed Cartograf decals backed up by clear and concise instructions.Lows: None that I've noted.Verdict: Another beautifully produced set from EagleCals that should complement the latest Spitfire kits perfectly.
Our Thanks to Eagle Editions Ltd.! This item was provided by them for the purpose of having it reviewed on this KitMaker Network site. If you would like your kit, book, or product reviewed, please contact us.
About Rowan Baylis (Merlin) FROM: NO REGIONAL SELECTED, UNITED KINGDOM
I've been modelling for about 40 years, on and off. While I'm happy to build anything, my interests lie primarily in 1/48 scale aircraft. I mostly concentrate on WW2 subjects, although I'm also interested in WW1, Golden Age aviation and the early Jet Age - and have even been known to build the occas...
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