Modelers of the legendary Curtiss P-40 were thrilled several years ago when Trumpeter released the first injection-molded 1/32 P-40B/C Tomahawk – I know I was! A couple of years later Hasegawa released a new 1/32 P-40E.
Just as there were nine versions of Tomahawks/Kittyhawks/Warhawks, there were also tires (tyres) of different designs. Now you can model a specific P-40 with these wonderful tires by Eclipse Model Design. Eclipse Model Design is a UK company producing resin upgrades for large scale (1/32nd and bigger) aircraft, conversions and full resin kits. Of note are their upgrades for the P-40 and Spitfire.
P-40 Block Tread Tyres
Eclipse Model Design offers this finely sculpted and cleanly cast set of block tread tires for the 1/32 Hasegawa P-40E. P-40 landing gear was the same throughout the P-40 design so these tires are appropriate for any P-40 after the tires reached the inventory.
Cast in gray resin they are free of flash, seam lines and air bubbles. They are weighted — flat on the bottom and ‘bulged’. Only small stems from the resin pour are present on the flat part that would contact the ground – can’t be less conspicuous than that! They are small and easy to remove. The resin is neither brittle nor soft.
Detail
The tread features five rows of staggered rectangular blocks. These low protrusions set on the top of the tire sidewalls giving a slightly squared top from the sidewall to the tread surface. Eclipse Model Design captures this feature accurately.
These tires are made to simply replace the kit tires by mounting them to the kit hubs and landing gear.
Conclusion
Eclipse Model Design created a great looking set of tires allowing 1/32 P-40 fans the ability to model a particular P-40. They should be simple to mount and are appropriate for any version of the P-40. I highly recommend this set!
This set was provided to me by Eclipse Model Design. Please be sure to mention that you saw the tyres reviewed here when you make your purchase.
SUMMARY
Highs: Sharp, clean casting.Lows:Verdict: A great looking set of block tread tires allowing 1/32 P-40 fans the ability to model a particular P-40.
Our Thanks to Eclipse Model Design! 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 Frederick Boucher (JPTRR) FROM: TENNESSEE, UNITED STATES
I'm a professional pilot with a degree in art.
My first model was an AMT semi dump truck. Then Monogram's Lunar Lander right after the lunar landing. Next, Revell's 1/32 Bf-109G...cried havoc and released the dogs of modeling!
My interests--if built before 1900, or after 1955, then I proba...
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