J4F-1 Widgeon. Brand new kit from Kovozavody Prostejov 1/72

December 29, 2024 · in Aviation · 1/72 Kovozávody Prostějov US Navy · 19 ≡ · 216

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dBnRht5Mzc · on youtube

As you have noticed, I have recently excelled in projects concerning flying boats. However, until now I have not dared to make a sea surface. This changed with the last project. In fact, completely by accident I found a new product from Kovozavody Prostejov, namely a model of the J4F-1 Widgeon aircraft. Maybe I would not have even paid attention to it, if not for the fact that earlier on YT I had listened to a story about an alleged attack on U-166, the hero of which was Widgeon from the 212th coastal defense squadron. A few words about the model. And the question is whether it is successful? It is a typical short run, without part numbering, one might add that it is less refined than products from, for example, Specjal Hobby. There are a lot of, flash not too large, but still overlays on the parts. Practically most of the elements require filling after joining. This applies in particular to the fuselage halves and the assembly of the wings to the fuselage. The front glazing also requires some polishing, as it eventually started to crack during fitting to the fuselage. This motivated me to make an imitation of the windshield wipers and its dirt using semi-gloss clear, then wiped with an ear stick. The number of errors in the instructions is depressing. Many of the parts presented there look completely different on the frames. This gives the impression that the instructions are from a different model. I am glad that I did not have to assemble the main landing gear in the open position, because fitting them would have been quite difficult. The legs are clearly too long and do not fit into the recesses in the fuselage. I will not even mention the poor assembly drawing in the instructions. On the other hand, the decals are very positive. They were easy and good to apply, although some of them differed in appearance from those shown on the box in color and pattern. So, this kit I recommended for experienced modellers, to avoid frustration during build. As I mentioned at the beginning, I painted it in the colors of the 212th Coastal Defense Squadron with markings from the attack on U-166. I invite you to familiarize yourself with the photos in the gallery as well as the film telling the story of this event. Captain R will return...

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