Eduard 1/48th 2F.1 Camel By Matt Bittner

Since Will Hendriks has already done a superb job on building the test shot in the March 2004 issue, I'll only describe - and show - the major components and primary additions to the test-shot kit.

The Kit

It appears that the parts layout is exactly the same as the test shot. Eduard had some concern about the test-shot's cowl, but they assure me that problem has been fixed. The interesting addition to this kit is the two small frets of photoetch - and this is not the profipack kit. This photoetch consists of a few exterior parts - mainly straps for the fuselage sides next to the cockpit and the area in and around the pilot's step. The other photoetch parts are for the interior, and are only for the seat belts and resulting hardware. I think it's great that Eduard is adding photoetch pieces to the standard kit to cover important items such as those listed.

Eduard also provides some of their masks to help with masking such items as wheels/tires and for covering the wing pully areas (which are provided for on the clear sprue).

There are three Camels provided for on the decal sheet: Sopwith Camel 2F.1, N7149, Turnhouse, probably 1918; Sopwith Camel 2F.1, N5, the first prototype, Martlesham Heath, March 1917; and Sopwith Camel 2F.1, N6602, HMS Furious 1918. This one from Furious includes a neat looking, white lattice work on the fuselage sides. The decals not only provide the major markings, but also provide smaller stencils as well as instruments for the instrument panel. With an addition of Future over these instruments and careful painting of the raised "bezels", a very convincing instrument panel can be made.

Conclusion

This is a very nice kit, one that should satisfy those looking for a "Ship's" Camel in 1/48th. The kit is definitely recommended.

Our thanks to Eduard for the kits.