When Tamiya released their 1:48 Bf 109G-6, they went for a very innovative way to allow modellers to show off their finished model with both the engine cowls open or closed. It isn't a straight one or the other decision, as with most kits - thanks to clever design, you swap nose sections after the model is finished.

Tamiya's engine is quite nicely detailed, but Eduard have spotted the opportunity to provide a replacement for the entire nose section, cowls and all, with a superb new Brassin set that takes things to an entirely new level.

The set arrives in a sturdy cardboard box with plenty of soft foam to protect the contents which are packed in several zip-lock bags. The set comprises:

64 x resin parts
46 x etched brass parts (including a few spares for some of the tiniest parts)

The casting is basically perfect in the sample set and the details are superbly crisp. The attachments to most of the casting blocks are surprising light, so preparation shouldn't take too long, despite the high number of parts. It's really only with the main engine block that you find what could be called a "hefty" pouring-stub.

The ignition harness is cast integrally, as are a few other cables and pipes, but most of the plumbing is separate, either as delicate resin pieces, or to be scratch-made from wire (PLus Model's lead wire will be ideal for this).

While the set itself is phenomenally detailed, the surgery needed to fit it is minimal and it looks very straightforward to install.

Backing everything up is a comprehensive set of instructions, breaking construction down into no less than 36 stages spread over 9 sides of A-4. The illustrations are well sized and very clear. Each stage includes Gunze Sangyo paint matches for every part.

Conclusion

My first impression upon opening the box and examining the contents was "mind-blowing!" - and that hasn't changed as I've looked closer. The complexity obviously makes this a very ambitious project for anyone unused to working with resin and photo-etch, but the design and quality of the casting should ensure that it assembles well, so experienced modellers should relish the challenge. Highly recommended.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.