Eagle Editions | EC43: Bf 109G-14s JG 1, JG 52 and JG 77
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
Jerry Crandall of Eagle Editions has just released a new 1/32nd scale decal sheet perfectly timed for use with Hasegawa's Bf 109G-14. Markings included allow the modeler to choose from four different Gustav schemes.
The instructions continue with its familiar format. They are printed over six pages with stencil placement diagrams, as well as color top and side views. Unfortunately, four photographs are included for only of one aircraft. All reference material is mentioned for those modelers that wish to further study these aircraft. Detailed information is included concerning specific items to be incorporated within each aircraft.
The first aircraft is a Bf 109G-14 "Yellow 10" as found in 1945 when assigned to 3./JG 77. This aircraft is equipped with a short tail and Erla-Haube canopy. An addendum to the instructions states that it is believed that this aircraft was found with the larger extended wing bulges similar to G-10 and K-4 installations. This could prove to be a difficult scheme to build as the Hasegawa Bf 109G-14 comes with the tall tail option and smaller tear drop shaped wing bulges. Cross kitting with the Hasegawa Bf 109G-6 would be an option, however, at the time of this review no aftermarket company supplies the larger upper wing bulges. The aircraft is finished in a scheme of RLM 74, 75 and 76.
The next aircraft is "Blue 3", a Bf 109G-14 assigned to 4./JG 77 in November of 1944. This Gustav was also equipped with a short tail and Erla-Haube canopy so a vacuform canopy needs to be added to the Hasegawa G-6 or the tail from the G-6 needs to be added to the G-14 kit to successfully complete this option. This aircraft is finished in an RLM 74, 75 and 76 scheme. As some controversy exists over the exact colors of the 4 Staffel emblem, optional choices are included. Additional details are further specified in the instructions.
The third aircraft is a tall tailed Bf 109G-14 "Black 8" flown by Oblt. Rolf Schlegel assigned to 10./JG 4. The scheme is appropriate for the Hasegawa kit straight out of the box. As mentioned in the instructions, only minor modifications are required. It should not be beyond the ability of an average builder. The aircraft is finished in an RLM 74, 75 and 76 camouflage.
The final aircraft is "White 21" a Bf 109G-14 of II./JG 52 in May 1945. This scheme is applicable to the Hasegawa Bf 109G-14 as supplied with very minor modifications. Four nicely printed black and white photographs are included of this aircraft as it appeared when surrendered to American forces at Neubiberg, Germany. It is finished with the familiar RLM 74, 75 and 76 colors.
Microscale prints all EagleCals decals assuring the best quality decals. The markings are very sharply printed. Carrier film is virtually invisible. Due to the thinness of these decals, I am sure they will react favorably to any decal setting solutions. Where applicable, multiple decals of one subject are supplied enabling the modeler to achieve accurate alignment of the markings. All stencils are included but the Reich Defense bands need to be painted on or added from other decal sources.
The Bf 109G-14 was a failed attempt by Willy Messerschmitt to standardize many of the changes that were now being added to the Bf 109G-6. These changes in the G-6 led a number of sub-variants. From the outset, the G-14 appeared in as many sub-variants as the G-6. Many parts were interchangeable between the two types. Fortunately, this will allow the modeler to cross kit Hasegawa parts if they wish to complete some of these schemes.
I can recommend EagleCals decals to any modeler looking for accuracy in their completed models. Jerry's attention to detail is quite evident with each new sheet. Their instructions are a great reference source and I look forward to future subjects.
Review Samples Compliments of Eagle Editions Ltd.
© Mark Proulx 2002
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This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016