Reviewer’s Name: Julian Seddon
Kit / Product: Eduard: English Electric Lightning F.Mk1A/F.Mk2
Initial assessment:
Accuracy
This is the very well-tooled Airfix kit, but this time featuring the Eduard treatment and that makes for a very nice package. The major parts are crisp and there doesn’t seem to be any flash present. The kit was always nice, clean and one of that batch of releases from Airfix that came from the top drawer – you’ll remember the late Mk. Spitfire that was also released back then? Eduard has done very well here bringing together the best of both manufacturers.
Fit
Dry fitting of the parts reveals no problems, and this is perhaps unsurprising as the aircraft is quite a simple design. The shape of the English Electric Lightning is complex and not easy to achieve accurately in any scale – especially the wings.
Quality
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Good quality tooling is demonstrated throughout. Subtle recessed panel lines and surface detail is excellent and doesn’t appear to have worn too badly over the years – looks good. All the parts look crisply moulded. The inclusion of a resin Martin Baker seat is very welcome, as is the pre-painted etched cockpit detail set. The latter features many of the items found in the Lightning cockpit: seat harness, main instrument panels, plus lots of smaller items.
Instructions?
Well detailed and clear.
Decals
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The kit decals are offer you a real treat in terms of options: Nos. 56; 19; 92 and 111 Squadrons RAF, are all included. The sheet is printed by Cartograf in Italy and are very high quality.
Other comments
An excellent package overall that ticks all the boxes – get one while you can, this product has been listed as Limited Edition!