Eduard 1/32 Spitfire Mk.Vb Interior Detail Set First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

Eduard from the Czech Republic is easily the most prolific producer of aftermarket details. Period. Their series of photo-etched detail sets have brought additional fidelity to otherwise bland subjects, and have taken even the best-produced models and kicked them up a notch or two with details that cannot be produced with injection-molded plastic.

This release tackles the exterior of the venerable Hasegawa 1/32 Spitfire Mk.Vb kit. This set is a straightforward update to the cockpit which starts with a new pilot's seat in photo-etch and enhances the appearance with a color-printed photo-etch Sutton harness.

The instrument panel is also a direct replacement consisting of three layers of color photo-etch that is self-adhesive to build up the multilayered panel. A replacement compass frame and compass face are also provided for the base of the panel. The panel is rounded out with a gunsight that also consists of color placards and face.

The side walls receive a set of photo-etched details including color-printed panels and other photo-etched details to enhance the appearance of the interior. The oxygen system even receives new brackets and mounting shelf.

This set will really set off the interior of the classic Hasegawa Spitfire kit though this detail set is not for the beginning modeler. You will need to be able to remove the photo-etch parts from their frets (simple once you know how) and then be able to apply these details using cyano adhesives without gluing yourself to the kit parts. It isn't difficult, or else these sets wouldn't be so popular.

You should be able to find this detail set at your local hobby retailer or one of the many online hobby shops. Trust me, this is worth looking for!

My sincere thanks to Eduard for this review sample!