Hasegawa 1/72 F-14A Tomcat “Miss Molly”
By Matt Bittner
Introduction
The first release of Hasegawa's "modern" Tomcat was back in 1988. Prior to that they had an F-14 that based more on the prototypes than actual production machines which suffered from the technology of the day: raised panel lines and little-to-no cockpit detail. However, the more "up-to-date" version of Hasegawa's Tomcat ("up-to-date" being 1988) has recessed panel lines, a more detailed cockpit and lots of parts to capture the lines and details of the production machine.
The Kit
The Hasegawa 1/72 F-14A Tomcat "Miss Molly" consists of a lot of injected molded parts. Plus there is a clear sprue and a fret of photoetch for such things as side console and exhaust detail. Decals are for just one aircraft, F-14A, 161621, VF-111, NL/200, USS Carl Vinson, CAG, 'Miss Molly'.
Since the model has been around for quite some time there is nothing out-of-the ordinary to the build, aside from the fact there is a lot of parts and patience is a key. In addition, there are NO weapons in the box, only fuel tanks, a Tactical Airborne Reconnaissance Pod System (TARPS) pod and pallets for the Phoenix missiles. However, there are no missiles, no weapons at all so if wanted for your build you'll need to track down one of Hasegawa's separate weapon sets (or find other suitable aftermarket items).
Conclusion
Probably the best Tomcat in 1/72 (Hobby Boss may be a little easier to build but it doesn't contain anywhere near the detail the Hasegawa does) it will take plenty of patience to assemble. But once finished you'll have an iconic model of an iconic US Navy fighter that unfortunately has been retired.
My thanks to Hasegawa USA for the review kit.
