Product description

Here is a product description by the manufacturer:

"Hasegawa Messerschmitt Bf-109 model kits from Bf-109G series and later contain horizontal stabilizer and elevator parts molded in one piece for each side. The locating lugs on these parts are designed to interlock during assembly but are molded too long and at the wrong angle for the modeler to accomplish this correctly without modification.

This simple replacement set not only corrects the mounting lugs for easy and flawless assembly, but the horizontal stabilizers and elevators are molded as separate pieces allowing them to be positioned at more candid angles than the kit supplied parts. The real Messerschmitt Bf-109 had control surfaces actuated by cables and unless the control stick was locked in the neutral position, gravity would cause the elevators to droop into the lowered position.

Pressure cast in premium quality tan resin, these direct replacement horizontal tail surfaces are easily assembled using cyanoacrylate type adhesives. Our recommendation is BSI Super Thin Insta-Cure Cyanoacrylate from Bob Smith Industries. These finely detailed replacement horizontal tail surfaces for the "G" series Messerschmitt Bf-109 and later will add an element of authenticity and a unique look to your next model."

The set

Master Details from USA's new set comes in a small zip lock bag and consists of four ivory colored resin parts. These are, it seems, direct copies of the original Hasegawa parts with the notable exception that the movable parts are separate. Like previously mentionned, the locating lugs have been modified for better and easier assembly.

The quality of the parts is very good and the detail is crisply rendered. I found no air bubbles in my sample and only very light traces of flash that will be easy to remove. However, I have noticed some flow marks due to the manufacturing process (pressure casting). The result is that some areas of the surface are matt while others are smooth. But under a coat of paint the difference won't be visible so this won't have an impact on the look of the finished model.

The original kit parts have been modified so that they can be glued in the lowered position in a realistic way. The movable surfaces have been rounded at their leading edges and the horizontal rudder parts have been hollowed accordingly. The hinges have been accurately rendered as well.

Though it is mentionned nowhere in the product description, I assume these parts are destined to the G and later variants of the Bf-109.

Conclusion

Master Details from USA's 1:32 scale Bf-109 replacement Horizontal Tail Surfaces set is recommended to the lazy modeller who doesn't want to modify the original kit parts by himself. The new resin parts are simple and easy to use replacements.

If you want to more detailed informations or if you want to see more pictures, you can visit www.masterdetailsfromusa.com.

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