There were some firsts for me with this kit: First Eduard kit, first time using photo etch of which not all survived the handling and painting, first time using masking fluid on the canopy. Overall I was happy (we are always our own worst critics). I have to say this was a really enjoyable build, almost trouble free and a satisfying end result.
THE KIT
This is far away the best kit I've ever worked with. The fit with almost all parts was precise and the level of detail is just stunning. The kit comes with photo etch and masks and out of the box it's a terrific piece of engineering. For those who love adding detail, I would recommend a set of resin air scoops, maybe a metal pitot tube and resin ejection seat. Go to town with the details, it would be worth it. If you do happen to buy this kit, just be aware that some of the decals for the stenciling are numbered incorrectly but easily sorted if you're careful with what you're doing. My only gripe with this kit is the sheer number of very small parts, I have big meat slabs for hands, and in my opinion, some over engineering with the landing gear. Otherwise this is a brilliant kit to work with. Lee does a review of the Bunny Fighter Club version which shares a lot of the parts with this kit so check out that video review to give you some idea of what you'll be getting when you purchase this kit. I'm seriously thinking about getting one or two more of these to build different versions and paint schemes.
THE AIRCRAFT
The aircraft depicted is a Vietnamese People's Air Force MIG 21 PFM of the 921st Fighter Regiment. It was reportedly flown by the North Vietnamese pilot Nguyễn Văn Cốc. One of the VPAF's leading aces. For those who may be interested, there is a write up in Wikipedia about Van Coc.
THE REVEAL
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