Eduard 1/144 MiG-21bis Photoetch
By Matt Bittner
Just like the set for the MiG-21SMT, the MiG-21bis photoetch set has no differences between it and the other photoetch sets for the Eduard 1/144 MiG-21 kits. Like the other sets, this release comes with a fret of photoetch as well as a set of decals. That sheet includes decals for the side consoles, instrument panel, and (most importantly) framing for the canopy. Instead of trying to mask for the thin section of "yellow" on the canopy framing, Eduard provides this on the decal sheet.
For the photoetch side, Eduard provides plenty of cockpit detail. After sanding down the instrument panel to remove the raised detail, you then apply the two-part photoetch, pre-painted instrument panel. Add a couple of drops of Future onto the dials and you'll give the impression of glass over those instrument dials. Other inclusions for the interior include pieces for the ejection seat (including belts), and sidewall and side-console detail.
On the fret you also receive and entire replacement exhaust "cone" (that consists of three pieces which includes rolling the brass). If you don't want to go to all that work for the exhaust "can", then you can use the photoetch exhaust cover – and to be complete, Eduard also provides the intake cover (but just the cover for the area the air passes through, and not the entire "cone cover"). There are pieces for all landing gear legs (different hydraulic and brake lines), piping and electrical lines for the main landing gear wells, replacement landing gear doors, parts to add to the weapon pylons (if wanting to display those "empty"), strakes for the top of the wing, parts to add to the exhaust end of the missiles, and additions to the canopy. Plus, there are external, ground details as well. You receive a complete pilot's ladder, two sets of wheel chocks and what I think is a "drip pan" to sit under the airframe.
An excellent addition to the superb 1/144 MiG-21 kits put out by Eduard.
We definitely thank Eduard for sending the review photoetch set.
