Review
MiniArt has let loose another Thunderbolt in 1/48th scale and this time it’s one of the models that is classed as a basic kit and I believe is correctly called a razorback version. The model is packed in the usual manner of a cardboard tray with separate card lid. Inside the contents are packed in a single plastic bag. An examination of the parts reveals no obvious issues other than a part of the canopy having broken free, but it does look to have escaped damage. Access for removal of parts from the sprues is good and the gates are not overly large and are low in number.
Despite this being described as the basic kit offering it still offers very high levels of detail but does not use photo etch and so those that don’t like this material have a option to suit them. The cockpit still offers a great level of detail and with careful painting plus a little weathering you can still get a stunning result. Harness detail is moulded onto the seat and does still look good. The cockpit is built into a tub for adding to the model and I feel most modellers will be perfectly happy with what is included. I really appreciate the effort put into guiding the correct application of decals for the cockpit instruments.
The huge radial engine that made the P-47 such a power house of an aircraft is nicely tackled here again despite the lack of photo etch. The model has been designed in order that the engine can be displayed if desired and while it will look good it is an area that needs some further detail to look the part when on display. All of this really depends on you and what you want from the model.
The wheel bays are another area where MiniArt has pulled out all the stops with just the wire and hydraulic detail being needed. I have heard that it gets a little crowded and so tight in there so make sure to full clean the parts up to solve any potential difficulties you may otherwise encounter. I do appreciate that displaying this high level of detail is not really practical and so is a case of displaying the model on a mirror or a case of you know it’s there.
The external detail on this offering is a thing of beauty offering a great combination of finely recessed panel lines and great rivet detail. Providing you are careful when painting due to the risk of flooding the detail; this detail with well done weathering will really pop and be the difference between a good model and a great model. I have not checked all of the detail replicated but what I have checked looks to be on the mark in every regard. The flight control surfaces are all separate parts and so can be displayed as you desire.
A good selection of fuel tanks and stores has been provided and decals have been included to lift the details to a higher standard. The items included are as follows:
250lb AN-M57 Bombs
500lb AN-M58A1 Bombs
1000lb AN-M59 Bombs
1000lb AN-M65 Bombs
108gal Paper Drop Tanks
150gal Drop Tank
75gal Drop Tank
200gal Drop Tank
Smoke Grenade
MiniArt has included two fishing options which are:
379th Fighter Squadron, 362nd Fighter Group, 9th Air Force. May 1944 Pilot: Lt. Ted Jenson.
62nd Fighter Squadron, 56th Fighting Group, 8th Air Force. Spring 1944. Pilot: Capt Mike Quirk