Eagle Editions | EC95: Me 262 A-Ia KG(J) 54, EJG 2, JG 7
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
Eagle Editions has just released two exciting new decal sheets for Trumpeters Me 262 A-1a in 1/32nd scale. This is a closer look at first sheet, EC#95-32. The second decal sheet, EC#96-32 can be viewed here.
The first thing I noticed is the departure from instructions printed on thick glossy bond paper. However, this in no way limits the information supplied as we see the return of photographs of each subject aircraft. Though the photos have been seen before, they will stay prove helpful to those with limited reference material. I hope that format continues. Text further explains more pertinent details for each aircraft.
Three aircraft are supplied with this new decal sheet. The first is “Yellow 3” from III./KG(J) 54. It was photographed at Munchen-Riem in May 1945. While other decal companies have supplied these markings in the past (Eagle Strike, Experten), this is the first decal sheet to supply the correct blue and white checker band to the rear fuselage. This aircraft is finished RLM 76/83 and displays the hard-edged tadpole camouflage pattern on the tail.
The second jet is the well-known “Red 13”, W.Nr. 110559. It was flown by Obstl. Heinz Bar of III./EJG 2. The aircraft was finished RLM 76 on the lower surfaces. However, upper surfaces are conjecture. Possibilities are RLM 74/75, RLM 82/83 or RLM 81/82.
The last aircraft is Rudi Sinner's unusual "Green 1" from III./JG 7. Like so many late war camouflage schemes, much is left to interpretation. While the lower surfaces are RLM 76, upper surfaces may be RLM 82/83 or RLM 81/82. These colors were applied at the unit level and Sinner himself could not remember the colors that were applied. Modelers should note that the correct lower surface cross to use is the black/white/black item identified in the text. The lower profile shows a black and white cross, which is incorrect.
A single page of markings are provided. They appear to be in perfect register with a minimal amount of carrier film. Stencils are not included. I am sure this was done to enable three optional schemes. This doesn’t pose a problem as Trumpeter includes extensive stencils with the model. I am sure modelers will appreciate that the tadpole design for the tail of “Yellow 3” is included as a decal. This should eliminate the need for complicated masking.
Given the popularity of the Trumpeter Me 262, I am sure these decals will sell quickly. Eagle Editions has a reputation for supplying some of the most accurate Luftwaffe markings available and these decals are sure to enhance your finished model.
Review Sample Compliments of Eagle Editions.
© Mark Proulx 2005
This product is available from the following LSP sponsors
This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016