Well, I chose which kit to pull first from the Big Eduard Box of Goodies. The A6M2 Model 11.
Hasegawa did a Model 11, but not with the attention to detail this one has. There are two different rear canopy sections, to recreate the various production differences (65 airplanes total, built in three batches, varying detail differences between each). Also the difference between the early and the other Model 11s regarding position of the engine exhaust.
The surface detail is incredible, so petite, so detailed, so perfect. The cockpit detail is wonderful. Fit is overall excellent.
The model took two afternoons over maybe 6-7 hours to arrive at the point where it is ready to move to the paint shop.
If you like the Zero, the Eduard kits are what you want (same as with the Bf-109, the Fw-190A, the P-51D, the Spitfire in all Merlin versions, the Wildcat, etc., etc.) Follow the instructions and greatness will result.
The only place any filler was used was to cover over the arrester hook well, since the Model 11 was land-based only, and the centerline of the upper rear fuselage (a Modeler-Induced Problem). Since there are no other changes in the fuselage between Model 11 and Model 21, this made sense on economic terms for Eduard. (fortunately the instrument panel position was corrected before the glue set when I looked at the photo)
I note the A6M3 Model 32 arrives next month.
8 attached images. Click to enlarge.
