Eduard 1/48 F4F-3 Sets for the Hobby Boss Kit

The Hobby Boss 1/48 F4F Wildcat series are nice kits out of the box, but like most kits there is always room for improvement and added detail. Eduard has released several new photoetch sets designed for the F4F-3 Wildcat kit, allowing the modeler to enhance their kit a little or a lot, depending on their whims.

Starting with the smallest set, the Zoom set FE412 provides a self-adhesive interior treatment. This includes a pre-painted multi-part instrument panel, new rudder pedals and center console details, a detailed side console and throttle assembly, and the usual seat belts. Throw in a couple of dataplates for the engine and wheel well, and this makes for a great basic update to the Hobby Boss kit.

For those wanting a bit more added detail, set 49-412 provides just that. In addition to the pre-painted self-adhesive photoetch found in the Zoom set, this one also includes another photoetch fret with more fuselage details. These details include an insert for the lower fuselage, with external framing for the lower windows. The cockpit gets new sidewall pieces, and the cockpit itself has a new rear bulkhead, seat, boxes, and support struts. Some additional framing and details on the canopy and tailplanes round out this set.

Moving to the exterior, set 48-590 details the engine and undercarriage, both very visible parts of the Wildcat. The engine treatment is extensive and includes lots of details for behind the engine, which is visible through the wheelwell. The engine itself gets ignition wiring and crankcase details.

For the wheelwell, all of the kit detail is removed from the bulkhead and replaced by photoetch. There are also inserts for the wheelwell inside the fuselage halves to provide surface detailing. A new set of cowl flaps includes actuator arms and hinges. For the landing gear, there are new hubs, doors, and various bits of plumbing.

For the rest of the set, the external details include new grills for the underwing coolers, trim tabs for the rudder and ailerons, wing light and gun opening trim pieces, and an open rear upper fuselage section. Also included is a replacement drop tank filler cap and rear fuselage tie downs. While this set has quite a bit of material to add to the kit, it will look much better than the original plastic.

The final set, 48-594, provides detailed gun bays for the Wildcat. This set will require some cutting to remove the gun bay doors from the wing, but the rest is simple enough. Both wing gun bays are included, and in addition to the bay itself, this set provides new doors and ammunition trays.

Whether you are looking for a little extra or an all-out project, these sets will enhance the Hobby Boss kit nicely. My thanks to Eduard for the review samples.