TBF-1/TBM-3 Bomb Bay

Destined to the Hobby Boss 1:48 scale Avenger kits, Eduard's photo etched Bomb Bay set comes in a zip lock bag which is bigger than the packaging we are used to see from the Czech manufacturer. No wonder, since the set is composed of one large PE fret which is protected by two cardboard sheets to prevent it from damage. A four page A5 size mini booklet construction notice is included as well.

The number of the parts is relatively low (still more than 80) when compared to the size of the sheet. This is because a lot of parts are rather big, especially those dedicated to the bomb bay doors. Of course, proper tools will be mandatory (like flat pliers or a PE bending tool) as well as Cyanoacrylate cement (Super Glue) to get the best out of this set.

The relative low number of parts doesn't mean that the level of detail is basic, to the contrary, once assembled, the bomb bay will be much more detailed and more finely rendered as the original one of the kit. As mentionned previously, the doors will benefit greatly from this set, but also the vertical framing. The internal stores haven't been forgoten. Included are additional parts to super detail the torpedo and the bombs, electrical wiring and time fuzes included.

From a previous experience with the build of such a photo etched bomb bay, I know that they need a minimal amount of glue during the assembly. There is no reason to flood the parts with Cyanoacrylate cement to keep them together as this will eliminate the fine detail on the metal's surface. In most cases, the capilarity action of liquid CA glue is only what is needed to keep the pieces together. However, extreme care is required when handling the fine metal parts which are very fragile. Take care not to bend the bigger ones or it will be very difficult to get them to their initial shape again.

Of course some parts of the original kit will have to be removed but this is cleary explained in the instructions. In most cases the stigmates on the model will be hidden by the new metal parts, so it won't represent a too difficult task to blend them in.

The instructions are printed in black & white on an A4 sheet folded so to make a small 4 pages booklet. While the drawings are small, they are easy to follow.

Conclusion

Eduard's TBF-1/TBM-3 Bomb Bay will constitute a very nice addition to every Hobby Boss Avenger. If you want to display your aicraft with the bomb bay doors open, there is no reason to hesitate as the PE parts represent a great improvment over the original kit parts. Highly recommended if you have the appropriate bending tools and the patience

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