Okay, HM is no the official standard bearer when it comes to being first out the door with long overdue models. This time the company
steps up with the first 1:72 Kate, which brings some much-needed diversity to the available Pacific Theater options.
This final retail review sample (not a pre-production sample) came directly to DiecastAce Field from HM a few weeks in advance of
when the model is expected to hit the U.S. in force (you should be able to buy it by the end of May).
The first thing that strikes me when looking over this model is that seems to represent a step up for HM in terms of the quality level
of the mold itself, but particularly the panel lines. The lines do not seem to be as deeply etched on this model as with past HM 1:72
warbirds I've seen. There's no wash applied as well, which probably helps, too. However, I kind of wish a wash was applied to the
bottom of the model, as it looks a bit too "shiny and factory fresh". But this is purely my subjective personal opinion.
The paint job is superb with no overspray, and everything fits together easily and without the need for glue. The pitot tube and
antenna mast are pre-attached, so there's really no fiddly bits to worry about. My model arrived with the tip of one prop blade slightly
bent, which probably happened when it was put into the clamshell packaging -- hopefully this is an isolated issue.
steps up with the first 1:72 Kate, which brings some much-needed diversity to the available Pacific Theater options.
This final retail review sample (not a pre-production sample) came directly to DiecastAce Field from HM a few weeks in advance of
when the model is expected to hit the U.S. in force (you should be able to buy it by the end of May).
The first thing that strikes me when looking over this model is that seems to represent a step up for HM in terms of the quality level
of the mold itself, but particularly the panel lines. The lines do not seem to be as deeply etched on this model as with past HM 1:72
warbirds I've seen. There's no wash applied as well, which probably helps, too. However, I kind of wish a wash was applied to the
bottom of the model, as it looks a bit too "shiny and factory fresh". But this is purely my subjective personal opinion.
The paint job is superb with no overspray, and everything fits together easily and without the need for glue. The pitot tube and
antenna mast are pre-attached, so there's really no fiddly bits to worry about. My model arrived with the tip of one prop blade slightly
bent, which probably happened when it was put into the clamshell packaging -- hopefully this is an isolated issue.
Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series
HA2001: Nakajima B5N2 "Kate", Akagi first wave attack,
Commander's aircraft, Pearl Harbor, Dec. 1941 Released: June, 2007
Commander's aircraft, Pearl Harbor, Dec. 1941 Released: June, 2007
 | |  |
| | |
No, that handle-looking thingy on the
cowl is not a mistake, it's an aiming
reticule for the pilot that was on the
"real deal".
cowl is not a mistake, it's an aiming
reticule for the pilot that was on the
"real deal".
There are two canopy options: closed and open, and the open section comes in four parts, along with a machine gun for the rear crew
member position. There are three crew figures supplied, and -- as is almost the norm for HM -- they are pretty poorly done. They are simply
about %20-30 too small and look a bit silly in the model, honestly. Boost 'em up with a bit of putty (or some 1:72 phonebooks if you've got 'em
) and they do look passable.
I'm also not a fan of the stand. It overpowers the model a bit due to the "cradle" design. This may be more stable, but I would prefer an
approach like Gemini Ace's with a single metal stand arm that is as thin as possible.
There was some concern about a possible gap issue at the wing root when the pre-production pictures were posted. However, the final
example looks fine to me.
Overall, I do feel this is one of HM's finest efforts, particularly for a first release of a new mold. I have no qualms about recommending it
highly.
Highly Recommended.
member position. There are three crew figures supplied, and -- as is almost the norm for HM -- they are pretty poorly done. They are simply
about %20-30 too small and look a bit silly in the model, honestly. Boost 'em up with a bit of putty (or some 1:72 phonebooks if you've got 'em
) and they do look passable.
I'm also not a fan of the stand. It overpowers the model a bit due to the "cradle" design. This may be more stable, but I would prefer an
approach like Gemini Ace's with a single metal stand arm that is as thin as possible.
There was some concern about a possible gap issue at the wing root when the pre-production pictures were posted. However, the final
example looks fine to me.
Overall, I do feel this is one of HM's finest efforts, particularly for a first release of a new mold. I have no qualms about recommending it
highly.
Highly Recommended.
Click image for slideshow.