Eduard 1/48 Bf109F-2 SA
By Jacob Russell
Eduard has released a p/e set for the Zvezda Bf109F-2. This is arguably the most accurate 109F/G kit out there at the moment (at least, until IM reviews the Eduard Bf109F kits), but it does give away some detail, at least compared to an Eduard Profipack boxing. This p/e set levels that playing field and may even offer a few advantages to some!
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This is the new self adhesive and color style of photo etch. The colours all look appropriate and are well printed. The color is used in the cockpit, in areas like the panels, consoles, seat belts and other suitable places. The non-coloured parts are the rudder pedals, map case, engine bits and the parts external to the airframe.
The Zvezda kit has exceptional detail, particularly with respect to the fact that it is entirely injection molded plastic. Fortunately, Eduard has recognized this and has not attempted to replace a lot of items that really are just as well served with the more 3-dimensional effect of molded parts. Instead, enhancement of the existing kit parts seems to be the priority.
In the cockpit the instrument panel, radio and oxygen consoles, map case, rudder pedals and some small assorted switches have been done. The painted pieces will be a boon for those that are not confident in their own painting skills, or are looking for a simple build but want to liven it up a bit. They do not add detail so much as insure that all details will be painted and painted well. The seat belts are gorgeous, showing stitching and buckle details better than most mortals can paint them! I also found the Eduard reflector glass and mounting bracket for the gunsight to be interesting. It truly makes the Eduard set a one stop upgrade set for this kit. Between the quality of the kit, nice extras such as separate control surfaces and very well thought out enhancements from the photoetch, you don't need anything else, even if you open it up.
The engine receives some small access hatches, screens and wiring that are not included in the original molded parts. I also particularly liked the linkages that go to the oil cooler in the lower cowling. Rather than try to recreate many of the parts, enhancement has been the route chosen by Eduard and they have done a brilliant job of an already great kit to the next level.
The rest of the airframe gets most of it's detail in the underwing radiators, landing gear and the flaps. There are the usual screens for the radiator faces, brake lines for the landing gear and my personal favourite, the lovely hinges for the flaps. These add the kind of delicate detail that keeps people looking at a model long after the initial impression grabs their eye.
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Overall, this is an excellent update for the Zvezda kits. It is well thought out, comprehensive but not overdone. Between the quality of the kit itself and the very well planned photoetch by Eduard, you could make a contest winning model that is truly competitive with the latest Czech/Japanese wonder kits for a fraction of the price. All in, with some aftermarket decals included, you should have all you need for under $50. Considering that the Zvezda Bf109F-2 kit includes an open engine option, I don't think you will find better quality for a better price. Excellent value and highly reccomended! I would like to thank Eduard for the review sample.