Eagle Editions | EC63: 1/32 Bf 109K-4s
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
This is the second 1/32nd scale release for Hasegawa's Bf 109K-4 from Eagle Editions. At the time of this review, additional subjects are expected.
The instructions identify that the following references were consulted:
- Crandall, Jerry; Wings of the Black Cross Eagle Editions Ltd.
- Mol, Kees; Poruba Tomas; Messerschmitt Bf 109K Camouflage and Marking JaPo
Both books are currently available and should be in your reference library. In particular, the JaPo book is a superb reference. It has to be considered among the best books written on the Bf 109K.
The instructions are printed over four pages. Profiles show single side, upper and lower camouflage schemes. As seen in a limited number of other decal sheets from EagleCals, no photos are included of the subjects. Representative stencil locations are identified using a Bf 109G-6 as reference.
As usual, markings are included for four aircraft. The first is "White 6" of 9./JG 27. The W. Nr and pilot are unknown. It is finished in a pattern of RLM 76/75/83.
Next is "Black 15", W.Nr 332579 of IV./JG 53. The pilot is unknown. This late war aircraft is finished in a pattern of RLM 76/75/83.
Another unknown pilot and W.Nr. can be associated with "Yellow 13". The aircraft was assigned to 15./JG 53. The aircraft is finished RLM 76/75/83.
The final Bf 109 K is "5800". Similar to other aircraft on this decal sheet, little is known about it other than colors. The W.Nr., pilot and unit can't be identified. This colorful aircraft is finished RLM 76 and natural metal on the under surfaces. The upper surfaces are finished RLM 75/83. The instructions question some portions of the scheme as detailed in the second reference noted above. The modeler is left with making the final decision.
Microscale USA prints the decals. They appear to be very thin and I expect no difficulty using them. Optional markings are included for "5800" giving modelers the choice of decaling the yellow tail band or masking and spraying it on.
Unfortunately, good reference photos of the Bf 109K are rare. Most aircraft are photographed derelict or on scrap heaps. Black and white photographs are difficult to interpret, especially given that many of the aircraft were just pieced together. Different camouflage patterns could be found on a single aircraft. It is for this reason that the Bf 109K is an interesting case study. For these reasons, I recommend Jerry Crandall's EagleCals markings for your Hasegawa kit. They continue to interpret markings based on years of experience and study. You can be assured the markings are correct given the most recent information available.
Review Sample Compliments of Eagle Editions.
© Mark Proulx 2004
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This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016