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Decals: Albatross DV Jasta 18 (Ref: 30011)
Review by: Les Venus
Something to get you in the mood…
Background
You may have noticed that SMN is generally a huge fan of Wingnut Wings, as is just about anyone that has used their products. In your SMN you can see the reviews of the Bristol Fighter, the RE-8 (being built by yours truly) and Here Now’s for the SE-5a and LVG Vi.
In every case, the models are sublime and represent the very best in scale modelling – whatever the subject. I personally rate all Wingnut Wings Products higher than Tamiya, which, given their reputation, says it all!
The fact that these models are in truth ‘limited run’ is simply amazing and I don’t know how they do it, but hope they keep it up!
It was not a surprise, given my paid-up membership of the Wingnut Wings fan club, that when I popped round to Geoff’s for a cuppa he passed me the new Albatross D.V. Additionally, he also gave me a Wingnut Wings decal sheet for the Albatross DV for Jasta 18 so here you have two for the price of one in this review.
I was of course delighted to be given this kit as I love the type and added it to the pile of 100 other things Geoff has me building!
The Box
As ever, the box top is fantastic. It’s not quite in Tamiya’s league yet, but certainly evokes the age in which these beautiful aircraft flew.
The box is lid and tray, thank goodness, and is adorned with information that scream ‘buy me’. These include colour side shots on the side of the box showing the 5 decal options offered and a brief history of the type.
Instructions
The instructions come in the form of their now legendary booklets, which are in themselves a reference book. No doubt, like me, you will keep these ‘books’ after the build, as every time you open them they just draw you in.
Moreover, they are simple to use and ensure that, if followed, you end up with a great model. Job done!
Click Thumbnail to enlarge/go back.
Colour Options
Five beautiful colour options are included, with 4 having mauve and green upper surfaces and one being all white, with a black and white striped tailplanes.
The only problem will be the hours you’ll no doubt spend trying to make up your mind deciding which choice to build. Be warned though: you have to make the choice before you start the build as there are subtle differences in parts for some aircraft.
The Kit
The 6 pale grey sprues, one clear sprue and a small etch set are of the highest quality.
A quick trial fit of the fuselage sides showed they were literally a click fit, with join lines almost invisible and after a swipe with a light sanding sponge will disappear. Detail on every component is simply incredible and would shame some resin manufacturers.
Indeed, the finesse and thinness of engine panels, gills on engine cylinders and rib tapes on wings are all without fault.
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