Mac Distribution 1/72 Spad VII C.1
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Background
The Spad was one of the first combat aircraft to adapt the new generation
of water-cooled V-type engines to gain additional performance over the
more common light weight radial engines in service. While still only a
single gun fighter, the Spad was extremely rugged, able to dive at high
speeds without disintegrating. Its power and agility enabled it to hold
its own against the opposition. Approximately 5,600 examples were built,
including over 200 in England and another 100 in the Soviet Union.
The Kit
Molded in tan styrene, this kit is provided on a single parts tree.
There is light texturing on all of the fabric-covered surfaces and scribed/raised
details where appropriate. There is no flash nor ejector pin marks in
any visible locations (after assembly) on the kit. A single fret of photo-etched
parts are provided for the instrument panel/cockpit coaming, rudder pedals,
seat frame and seat belts.
Markings are provided for two examples:
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Spad VII, S.122, Esc N26, 26 Aug 1916, Lt Armand Pinsard
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Spad VII, S.1379, ADJ Marcel Henriot, Black Dragon of Esc Spa.65
The instructions are well illustrated for assembly and assembly should
be straightforward. My only complaint is the illustration for the rigging
which is not at all clear for those not-so-experienced with biplane rigging.
Conclusions
This will build into a nice-looking model that will add a historic subject
to your shelf. If you like 1/72 scale WW1 aviation, you'll love this kit.
I can recommend this kit to anyone with basic modeling skills and the
patience to work with small parts. As the photo-etched parts are not complex
in this kit, this would also make a good introductory kit for multimedia
modeling. You're on your own for rigging though.
My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail
Order for this review sample!
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