Zactomodels 1/32 MiG-29 Correction Set First Look

By Michael Benolkin

First Look

Zactomodels is a small aftermarket company that does some of the most incredible engineering and casting to correct selected beloved subjects. This time around, they've tackled the Revell 1/32 MiG-29A Fulcrum kit.

As you may recall, Revell produced an impressive kit with their single-seat MiG-29A and followed that up with their two-seat MiG-29UB, both in 1/32 scale. Unfortunately, the kits were developed about 10 years ago and it still wasn't easy to get a close look at one in those days. As a result, the kit misses the mark in a few areas, most notably with the ventral engine fairings and the exhaust nozzles.

I was impressed with the engine nozzles that Zacto Models had previously released for the 1/32 Trumpeter MiG-29M and MiG-29K kits ( look here) and I remember hearing that they were going to tackle the Revell kit. I knew they'd do a good job on that project, but when this detail set arrived in the mail, I took one look inside and all I could say is "OH MY GOD!" The title of the set is a 'correction set, but it would be more accurate to call this a 'transformation set'.

This 'correction' set is molded in tan resin and features the same excellent casting that has been seen in previous releases, complete with the finely scribed surface details that don't really show up in these images.

So what's in the box:

• New afterburner nozzles (w/photo-etched afterburner spraybar shields
• New engine fairings from the nozzles to the rear of the nosegear well (you still use the kit intakes)
• New beavertail fairing
• New dorsal intake louvers (closed)
• New FOD shields for the main intake
• Dorsal cooling scoop
• New radome
• New IRST fairing
• New canopy rear fairing
• New stabilator hinge assembly
• New dorsal chaff/flare dispensers
• Seven pages of well-illustrated instructions

In addition to these nicely cast parts, the instructions are very well done and provide very precise measurements where the kit airframe must be cut to accommodate these new parts as well as where to relocate kit parts to make the transformation complete.

All I can say is WOW! None of the steps called out in the instructions are difficult, though this is not a project for the beginning modeler. Nevertheless, if you've wanted an early MiG-29 on your scale flightline, this transformation of the Revell kit is just what you need to achieve that goal. To date, only Revell has produced the MiG-29A in 1/32 scale - the Trumpeter kits are of the MiG-29M that wasn't put into production and the MiG-29K carrier-based fighter that is entering service with the Indian Navy but hasn't really adopted by the Russians (yet).

Recommended for experienced modelers!

You can learn more about this and other project from the Zactomodels website at http://www.zactomodels.com.

My sincere thanks to Zactomodels for this review sample!