Eduard 1/72 SPAD XIII "Late" Profipack
By Matt Bittner
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This is going to be pretty short, text-wise, First Look. We not only did a First Look on the non-profipack release as well as the Dual Combo "Early" set, but I've also built the non-profi as a full-build article. The only difference between the two sets already previewed and this one is the photoetch that didn't exist in the non-profi kit, but also the "Late" wings that weren't in the Dual Combo kit. Otherwise the kits are the same.
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The photoetch covers such things the engine cooling "areas" on the sides, providing for three different possiblities (louvered, "grilled" or completely open); the aileron cranks on the top of the lower wing; as well as seat belts and other pieces for the cockpit. There are also small pieces to "jazz up" the outside of the kit as well. In addition, thankfully Eduard replaced their old vinyl masks with the "new" yellow tape. That was definitely needed as the vinyl masks just didn't work. The masks are not only for the wheels, but there are "stripes" as well, which would work if you decide to paint your rudder instead of using the decals. (I used Eduard's vinyl masks for the camo on my earlier full build. It would be nice if Eduard would re-release those using the yellow tape. It definitely helps with the final masking.)
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Lieutenant Charles Nungesser, Escadrille SPA.65 (GC.13), September, 1918
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Sergent Fernand Chavannes, Escadrille SPA.112, August, 1918 (which has markings of a spider on the turtledeck and sides; unfortunately Eduard did NOT supply the spider's webbing - that will probably have to be drawn on, which will probably NOT be an easy task)
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Adjutant Marius Blanc, Escadrille SPA.81 (GC.15) Summer, 1918 (SPA.81 had a greyhound on the fuselage sides as a squadron marking)
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Captaine Rene Fonck, Escadrille SPA.103 (GC.15), Fall, 1918 (SPA.103 was part of "The Storks")
Decals look nicely printed and in register. While there are only one set of roundels, the rest of the decals are complete for each aircraft.
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Another very nice 1/72 SPAD XIII from Eduard. Pick one up, you'll be glad you did.
I want to thank Eduard for supplying the review sample.