Minute72 1/72 HR Model Hanriot HD.1 Photoetch
By Matt Bittner
The HR Model 1/72 Hanriot HD.1 builds into an excellent rendition of the late-WWI French fighter. While HR released their own set of photoetch for their kit, Minute72 – a new Czech company – has released a more comprehensive set of photoetch that will really set the model apart.
There are three photoetch frets: one handling mainly internal pieces; a second fret for mostly external pieces; and a third fret for a more correct set and additional internal pieces. There are various parts you need to build up – some just multi-photoetch pieces, other needing additional material such as plastic rod – which are added to the folded-up cockpit sides and floor. For example, once the seat is "rolled" and folded then belts are added to it, and that assembly is added to the seat support assembly. This is then added to the cockpit after sides are folded up. You'll also need to build the control stick and lever using plastic rod and photoetch parts.
The external fret contains mostly access doors for the fuselage sides, the specific type and placement depending on the version modeled (French or Italian – other countries aren't listed (such as the U.S.) because those were either French- or Italian-built, check your references for sure). The other external pieces are more access doors and other bits for the wings, as well as the entire structure for the "king post", the rear of the aircraft where the tail skid fits and the rudder is attached to.
This is an excellent first set from Minute72 and will look really great when added to the 1/72 HR Model Hanriot HD.1.
Huge thanks to Minute72 for supplying the review set. Note Minute72 is available both from Modelimex and Hannants.