Modelsvit 1/72 Su-17M3R (Fitter) Kit First Look
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | October 2018 | Manufacturer | Modelsvit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Su-17M3R (Fitter) | Scale | 1/72 |
| Kit Number | 72048 | Primary Media | Styrene, Photo-Etch |
| Pros | Crisp moldings, amazing detail | Cons | Complex for hobbyists of modest experience |
| Skill Level | Experienced/Expert | MSRP (Euro) | 30.80€ |
First Look
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Scion to Sukhoi's classic Su-7 line, the Su-17 featured variable-geometry outer wing panels, re-contoured fuselage profile, enhanced load-carrying capacity, and noticeably improved performance. Employed during the Soviet-Afghan War, the Su-17M3R variant sported a KKR-1 reconnaissance pod and "[a]round 15 reconnaissance containers".
Modelsvit's impressive 1:72-scale version includes an amazing array of plastic parts on 12 twelve – count 'em 12 – trees, aftermarket-quality extras, and markings for three (3) subjects.
Hard to believe that Modelsvit's remarkable moldings are "limited run".
With just the barest hints flash here and there, quality of plastic components is uniformly outstanding. Featuring, where appropriate, both recessed and raised scribing, external finish is so fine that, without special care, thickly applied paint might hide Modelsvit's exquisite detail.
You have been warned!
Modelsvit claims 158 parts0, but I almost went cross-eyed trying to confirm their claim. Parts for the gorgeous little K36 ejection seat totals – I think – 24 plastic items alone. Add instrument and sidewall details, and the cockpit tub builds to a mind-blowing little model by itself.
Crystal-clear plastic parts include both open & closed canopy options. And an equally impressive suite of miniscule details supplement styrene trees:
- One (1) fret of 17 minuscule photoetch brass pieces
- Two (2) clear-film gunsight parts (which I could not find – and possibly lost)
- One (1) set of canopy painting masks
Modelsvit's 12-page, Ukrainian-English instructions feature a capsule history, parts maps, and paint matches keyed to Humbrol colors. A 42-step assembly sequence – yes, that's 42 steps – and 4-page color guide with explanatory notes for three (3) subjects follow:
- 313th SRAR, Vaziani, Georgia SSR, 1989
- 263rd SRAS, Afghanistan, summer 1987
- 294th SRAR, Allstedt-2 airfield, DDR, late-1980s
But you ain't seen nothing yet.
The kit's 86-item main decal selection also includes a separate sheet of 117 more microscopic stencils – with, of course, application instructions.
Talk about going cross-eyed!
Wow, what an amazing, all-in-one effort. From Modelsvit packaging and presentation, through moldings and instructions, to details and decals, overall kit quality ranks as totally terrific!
With thanks to Modelsvit for this review copy.