|
|
ITALERI
1:72 AV-8B(NA) "NIGHT ATTACK" HARRIER
'INBOX Review'
Reviewer: John Lacey (elric@johnsmail.com)
Italeri's AV-8B(NA) is a reissue of their earlier AV-8B with the inclusion of the new 'Night Attack' avionics. Having built the original some time ago, I was pleased to see that the kit's external stores were added to in addition to the avionics required.
A standard Italeri instruction sheet with history, parts breakdown, colour callout and detailed construction diagrams is supplied.
Although still present on the sprues, the woeful FFAR pods & triple ejector 'blobs' are noted as not being used, 'You don't say'. Along with these, I would also jettison the AIM-9s, to hazard a guess as to their type would give even the most patient a headache. New parts include reasonable Mk 82 LDGPs replacing the previous but haphazard Snakeyes, a five part cannon system (two parts to each Gun and Ammo pod and an Air Dam), ALE chaff dispenser for the fuselage side, a nice 'strap on' refuelling probe and, naturally, the FLIR blister for the nose. Undercarriage options are restricted to 'wheels down', although with a bit of judicious trimming, an 'in flight' option can be created. The canopy is well formed and clear although previous reviews have suggested the canopy is not bulged enough. Cockpit detail, whilst Spartan, is not too bad for the scale. One disappointment, is the use of raised panel lines, this being a throwback from the kit's original release.
Decal options, one only here I'm afraid. An early machine resplendent with 'Night Attack' nose art serving with VX-5 'Vampires' at China Lake NAS. Superscale will come to the rescue here, allowing an in-service machine to be created, my choice being that of VMA-214 'Black Sheep'.
Painting options are equally singular in the outdated green/grey wraparound, calling Model Master and Italeri paint numbers, however, once again, a current Mod Tactical scheme would enhance the kit.
In conclusion, a lot cheaper than a 'Night Attack' resin conversion, given you would have to use the Italeri kit or perhaps the Heller example. Having not encountered the Heller example, feedback on its accuracy would be appreciated here, however, Italeri's offering isn't too bad in the long run.
Related Reviews:-
Related INBOX Reviews:-
SMAKR
Home | What's
New | Submissions
| Information
Requests | News
| Links |
Reference
Corner | Site
Info
1/72 Reviews | 1/48
Reviews | INBOX Reviews
