Mitsubishi A5M4 Claude Comparison Build – Nichimo, Fujimi, and Clear Prop Kits
Here is a small batch of Claudes hot off the bench, Fujimi, Clear Prop, and Nichimo from left to right. The Mitsubishi A5M4 Claude is an attractive aircraft and it carried a variety of colorful and interesting paint schemes. I was happy with the way the varnish finish came out on the Clear Prop and Fujimi kits, plus it was challenging to see what improvements could be made to the old Nichimo kit. Carrier deck is from Bases by Bill. A fun build!
The Fujimi Claude (W-102) depicts the A5M4 of Airman 1c Matsuo Hagiri operating from the aircraft carrier Soryu in the Summer of 1938. Hagiri survived the war and was credited with a total of thirteen aerial victories.
W-101 is built from the Clear Prop kit and represents the A5M4 piloted by Captain Yokoyama Yasuya aboard the aircraft carrier Soryu in November 1938.
DII-122 is the old Nichimo kit from 1964 with several improvements. This model carries the markings of the aircraft carrier Shoho during the Battle of Coral Sea, “D” = fourth carrier division, “II” = second ship. Shoho's air group included four Claudes, at least two of which were shot down by F4F Wildcats from the USS Yorktown (CV-5).
Construction and review posts on my blog here: https://inchhighguy.wordpress.com/2025/04/18/mitsubishi-a5m4-claude-comparison-build-part-iv-nichimo-fujimi-and-clear-prop-kits/
A great comparison between those kits, Jeff @inchhigh
Thanks for the information.
I never heard about Nichimo but it is good to read on your website that this kit still can compete with modern kits.
Beautiful presentation with the aircraft on the flight deck.
Great job, Jeff! X3
Excellent results, Jeff!
What a great comparison!
Nicely done Jeff, all three.
Great collection, Jeff. The Claude us an appealing little plane.
That is an impressive collection, each one looking distinctive. Well done!
Excellent work and beautiful collection! 👍
Great builds, the amber tint worked out well!