Hasegawa's quarterscale Ki 84 Hayate is one of my favourite kits - well designed and finely detailed. But even the best injection moulding can't hope to match what's possible in resin, and while Hasegawa's cockpit is among the best I've seen in a mainstream kit in this scale, SBS Model's complete replacement "office" set takes things to an entirely new level.
The set features SBS's very successful combination of resin and etched brass, using each medium to its best advantage. 14 faultlessly cast grey resin pieces are accompanied by a further 30 brass items. The parts almost completely replace the kit originals - just a pair of levers, seat mounts and the rear bulkhead being retained. The resin parts provide a new floor, sidewalls, seat, control column, gunsight and various boxes. Onto this foundation the etched items add a seat harness, rudder pedals, reflector-glass mount, a plethora of tiny switches and levers and, last but not least, a new instrument panel with a film backing for the dials. The overall effect should be stunning as in each case, while the kit parts are already very good, the new versions add a mass of delicate details that defy moulding in styrene.
The instructions are also excellent, with very well drawn illustrations of the construction sequence and a comprehensive painting guide. Overall, the set doesn't look difficult to install because Hasegawa moulded separate sidewalls, doing away with the need for surgery before the resin parts can be fitted. That said, a bit of experience working with multi-media upgrades is still advisable, if only on account of the small size of some of the etched parts.
Conclusion
SBS Model's Hayate cockpit is a real cracker! It's the kind of set that actually inspires you to buy the original kit or dig it out of the Stash just so you can use it - I speak from experience in the latter instance! Unreservedly recommended.
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.
SUMMARY
Highs: Superbly detailed and faultlessly produced.Lows:Verdict: This is a stunning set that improves on an already excellent kit cockpit to produce a real show-stopper.
Our Thanks to SBS Model ! 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...
Comments