Introduction
J2M3 Raiden Wheel Wells and Covers is the final look at a range of upgrades for Hasegawa's venerable 1/72 J2M3 Raiden by
CMK. Set
7396 is one of six (6) sets for the Hasegawa J2M3. The other five are
J2M3 Raiden:Cockpit, set 7292
Armament Set, set 7393
Control Surfaces, set 7394
Wing Flaps, set 7395
Seat with Belts, item Q72305
(Part of CMK's Quick & Easy range.)
Mitsubishi's stocky Raiden (Thunderbolt) is a favorite subject for Japanese Naval Air Force modelers, and Hasegawa's kit was considered the best 1/72 model "Jack." Now a bit long in the tooth its detail can use some help.
CMK covers detail with several sets to upgrade and enhance Hasegawa's model, including this landing gear set.
Wheel Wells and Covers
Nine (9) gray resin parts make up this set. Casting is high-quality with no flash, air pocks, seams, or sinks. The only complaint I have is the main gear covers are warped. Nothing that some TLC and hot water can't fix, I'd expect.
The parts are:
Wheel well insert
2 x Main gear cover
2 x Main gear cover bracket
2 x Tire cover
2 x Main gear outboard cover
Detail
The Hasegawa wheel wells are plain. CMK's wells have structural and other detail. The interior of the gear covers have detail, too. Let's acknowledge the brackets to hold the main covers to the gear struts - impressive for 1/72.
Instructions
A small instruction sheet is provided. It is clearly printed and organized. Each sprue is illustrated and each part numbered. Each part identified by number in the assembly steps, and keyed to a Humbrol color.
This intriguing set is packaged in a sturdy plastic bubble with a cardstock backing.
Conclusion
J2M3 Raiden Wheel Wells and Covers is a nice upgrade set by
CMK for the Hasegawa J2M3. With crisp thin castings, good detail and separately cast parts, the appearance of Raiden's landing gear is boosted. The only complaint I have is the warped main doors.
Like the previous sets we've looked at,
CMK's wheel well and covers set can stand alone or be combined with the other sets to upgrade and enhance Hasegawa's old J2M3 into the pride of your collection. Recommended!
Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.
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