We all knew it was just a matter of time before we had a proper 1/32 early Bf-109 conversion set. For some it has taken too long, but now the wait is over. This is the Bf-109C/D set.

First of all, the molding of the parts is exceptional. No one else does resin better than what you'll find from Cutting Edge. Those who have built CE sets will agree. The moldings are free from any of the usual mold faults one finds with some other resin sets.

This set consists of everything you need forward of the canopy and includes a new windscreen and aft canopy section as well, these latter parts superbly molded from clear resin. There is also a new lower center wing section and a set of flaps to go along with it. You can attach the kit landing gear directly to the new lower wing or you can replace the molded in wheel wells with more detailed ones. Your choice. Now, there is a difference between the A model parts shown above and the ones for the C/D. This is basically the upper cowling shown at the right, as it contains the same prop and spinner as the B. Some D models and perhaps a C or two were retrofitted with the same style exhaust as the 109E when they were used for either night fighter or training use. This is also included with the set.  Curiously, there is also a 109E spinner in this set. Not sure why it is there unless some C/D models were retrofitted with a three bladed prop. I could find nothing about it in the instructions.

Instructions consist of four pages of very detailed 'how-to' for doing this conversion. As you might expect, it is quite similar to the Bf-109A instructions, though does show you where to put some of the bits that were not in the same place on the C/D as on the A. This is not a conversion for the tyro and one really needs to have some experience in the genre before doing this. Especially as the Hasegawa 1/32 109E is not the best fitting kit in the world. However, by working carefully and referring to the large, clear photos included, you should be able to complete this conversion without too much trauma.

November 2007