Eduard's new 1:48 scale G4M Betty detail set comes in the manufacturer's standard packaging consisting of a small plastic bag in which the PE fret is protected by a thin cardboard sheet. Instructions are included as well.
The Tamiya G4M Betty is a very nice kit but is now 15 years old so every attempt to bring it to today's modeling standards is welcome. However it should be clear from the beginning that Eduard's set does not add a lot more details but rather replaces the original plastic parts of the kit. Below is a list of what is replaced:-
Pre-painted instrument panel replaces plastic part and decals in the Tamiya kit.
Pre-painted radio box replaces plastic part in the Tamiya kit.
Rudder pedals replaces plastic parts in the Tamiya kit.
Central console with levers replaces plastic parts in the Tamiya kit.
Two wheels replace plastic parts in the Tamiya kit.
Additional PE parts, for which equivalents aren't present in the Tamiya kit, are the following:-
Seat belts for seven positions.
Arm rests for three seats.
Four instrument boxes.
The quality of the PE parts is excellent as always with Eduard. If you look very closely you can see small lines on the pre painted ones. This is because of the printing process. But to be honest you have to be in macro mode to notice them. Eduard have replaced their old PE printing machines last summer and the new pre painted parts look better and more precise than before. Some are self adhesive and won't require any glue.
In the older, non pre painted, PE set from Eduard (ref. 48191) some parts were included for the gunner's position as well as replacement ammo mags for the defensive guns. These are sadly missing in the new version.
Conclusion
If you plan to build Tamiya's old but still excellent G4M Betty kit and if you are searching for alternative parts to achieve a nice finish of the interior, this PE set may be an option as it will save you the painting of the details. However, if you have the skill to achieve this by your own, the number of extra parts won't make this set worth the purchase, especially at a price tag of $26,95.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AeroScale.
SUMMARY
Highs: Excellent quality - precise printing - ready to use.Lows: Most parts are replacements for already very nice plastic parts - price seems not really justified.Verdict: High quality product for Tamiya's very nice G4M Betty kit... if the price is not a problem for you.
Our Thanks to Eduard! 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.
Comments