Eduard released this kit several years ago to very positive reviews. I bought it soon after launch from E-Models in the UK as I was ordering some other stuff from them. The inbox review I did on it was quite complete at the time so we will get stuck in.
It’s been a while since I have tackled a WW2 1/72 kit particularly one that has photo etch. I have noticed over the last few years my eye sight slowly getting worse which has had me thinking about moving up to 1/48 scale. The only issue there is larger models take up more space to display.
Since this kit starts with the cockpit area with a fair amount of photo etch I raised my work area up to make the job a bit easier.
A magnifier is a must, I’ve notice that I’ve had to switch up to a 4X lope to work.
I’ve also put some of the tools I use for working with photo etch. I use the old CD to put my super glue on before using a tooth pick to apply. The pencil is a wax based photo-etch placer from Ultimate Modeling products in the UK. Tamiya photo-etch scissors are seen in the lower left. I had my doubts about them but they make absolutely clean and precise cuts on the PE frets.
And here is a (poor) zoomed in photo of what the size of things are that I’m dealing with. In this case a small lever on the right side of the cockpit floor. The seat will go in next along with other sub-assemblies that can be put together in preparation for paint. I find I can only do tiny detail work like this for a short while before going cross eyed so breaks are important.
Once some of the smaller items are done the rest of the build will proceed at a better pace