AVRO’S CLASSIC ‘HEAVY’

HK Models 1/48 Avro Lancaster B Mk.I

Having treated modellers to a monster 1/32 scale Lancaster, it’s perhaps unsurprising that Hong Kong (HK) Models has downsized its efforts and released a new 1/48 version.

 

HK 1/48 lancaster B.I

Hong Kong Models' initial boxing (01F005) provides parts for a B.Mk.I variant and these are presented on 15 styrene runners, plus separate fuselage and upper/lower wing halves. A photo-etched brass fret supplies seat straps/harnesses, equipment box backing plates and an alternative bomb aimer’s sight bracket.

Similarities with its larger cousin abound, including the clever interlocking mechanism for the wing/fuselage join, but thankfully there is a much-reduced parts count of just under 400 items, which is less than half of the former’s complement. As the accompanying preview photos show, the detail is stunning... from the finely engraved panel lines and recessed rivets on the exterior, to the faithful rendering of the intricate turret assemblies and gun mounts.

HK 1/48 Lancaster B.I
Above: At first glance, it appears the wings have been supplied as single-piece constructions, but…
HK 1/48 Lancaster B.I
Above: ... instead this is thoughtful packaging, utilising the very robust locating pins (visible at top) in each wing. Note the fine detail on the upper surfaces, along with the integrally moulded ailerons – the landing flaps can be assembled in the raised or lowered position.

The bomb load offered with this kit is different to that on the 1/32 Lancaster, with six 500lb medium-capacity (MC) bombs and a single 4,000lb high-capacity (HC) ‘cookie’, providing a variation on the standard Cookie/Plumduff blast/incendiary combination. Options include open/closed engine nacelles (fully detailed powerplants are supplied) and bomb bay, plus provision for an H2S radome for one markings option.

HK 1/48 Lancaster B.I
Above: Surface detail is exquisite, comprising fine engraved panel lines and rivets, while raised sections, such as the strengthening plate along the fuselage, are replicated accurately.
HK 1/48 Lancaster B.I
Above: HK Models provides 500lb MC  (medium-capacity) and 'Cookie' 4,000lb HC (high-capacity) munitions for the bomb bay, although modellers may want to mix and match these with aftermarket weapons.

There are two colour schemes, both for UK-based airframes in standard RAF night bomber camouflage:

• W4118/ZN-Y 'Admiral Prune', 106 Squadron, RAF Syerston, December 1942

• R5868/PO-S, 467 (RAAF) Squadron, RAF Waddington, May 1944

Surprisingly, this is just the second kit of the type in 1/48 scale, after Tamiya’s classic 1975 tooling, although the pre-formed cutouts on the fuselage hint at HK Models replicating its 1/32 release schedule with hopefully a B.III (Special) and B.I/III to follow.

Further details are available via: www.bachmann.co.uk