Small Stuff 1/144 Tupolev Tu-134UBL Conversion Set First Look
By Fotios Rouch
| Date of Review | April 2013 | Manufacturer | Small Stuff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Tupolev Tu-134UBL Conversion Set | Scale | 1/144 |
| Kit Number | 44104 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Nice detailed update for the Zvezda kit | Cons | |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (USD) | $31.00 |
First Look
The Tu-134UBL was a Tu-134B modified to fulfill the trainer role for the Tu-22M Blinder. The radome was replaced with the one from the Blinder. The interior of the aircraft was configured for 12 students acting as the second in command or as navigators.
Small Stuff http://www.smallstuffmodels.com/ is a new company to me. They specialize in 72nd and 144th scale detail sets. In 144th scale they produce conversions and detail sets for the beautiful Zvezda Tu-134 and Tu-154 kits:
- Tu-134 Detail Set
- Tu-154M Detail Set
- Tu-134UBL Conversion Set
- Tu-134SKh Conversion Set
- Tu-134AK Conversion Set (future release)
Despite the small scale this is a most complete conversion set. You get a beautifully mastered and crafted resin forward fuselage and a new tail end. You get a comprehensive decal set with 6 colorful options. You also get paint masks and scribing templates.
This is all you need besides your own modeling talent. I was especially amazed by how well the nose fit into the resin forward fuselage plug. There will be no gap whatsoever after it is glued in place.
This is a great little set and I am looking forward into getting into the other sets as well. Vociferously recommended to the Tu-134 family fans!
My sincere thanks to Small Stuff Models for this review sample!