New aircraft items in the three major scales are now available from the Ukrainian firm. CHRIS CLIFFORD inspects the selection provided to Key Model World.
Fast jets are the focus for most of the newly issued resin aircraft upgrades from Reskit, spanning 1/72, 1/48 and 1/32 scales, our review samples share a clear common denominator… the detail is magnificent.
Modellers who favour larger models have a splendid option in set RSU32-0100, Ejection Seats MB Mk.10B for Hawk T.1A ($12.30). These 3D-printed units come in surrounding cages to protect their delicate features. Once these are removed the exquisite design and printing becomes fully evident. All the harnesses and quick-release box are present, along with the main gun tube, the drogue gun and its linking cable and even the seat pan firing handle. Reskit has gone all-out with the detail, as very small components – such as the scissor shackle and main gun sear pin, are present too. Under-seat rocket packs are printed separately but these even have the venturi tubes in situ. Waterslide stencil/data plate decals are included.
For those working in 1/48 scale and considering Hobby Boss or Academy F-111 Aardvark builds, set RS48-0337 ($9.70) offers two of the type’s bespoke BRU-3 multiple ejector racks for toting all manner of bombs. The printing plinth connections are slight so the racks will be ready to use quickly, and clearly evident are the sway brace crutching pads, plus other fine details. Stencil decals are provided too.
Three 1/72 items are highlighted here, all for different aircraft. First is RSU72-0130, F-105 Thunderchief Exhaust Nozzle ($7.20). Designed to improve Trumpeter’s F-104D/G kits, you receive a traditionally cast resin exhaust tube and annular petal arrangement, with a 3D-printed afterburner flame holder. More visible are the four trademark airbrakes (3D-printed), which can be posed open or (after doctoring the locating tabs) closed. Rivet detail on these – and the overall features of the other parts – is superb.
Yet another ‘rear end’ is supplied via RSU72-0195, which provides a four-part cast resin exhaust nozzle for Academy’s 1/72 F-8 Crusader. Also present is a two-piece 3D-printed afterburner unit, which is hugely impressive.
Modellers who favour Dassault’s capable Rafale aircraft can now make the air intakes more realistic (by having full depth), with Reskit’s set RSU72-0197 ($9.90). Entirely 3D-printed and designed to fit Hobby boss’s kit, there are the sinuous intake tubes themselves, plus finely detailed engine fronts, outer intake fairings with integral splitter plates and optional ECM fairings for Rafale C/M sub-types. The outer intakes sport beautifully fine panel line/rivet engraving and are adorned with small cooling air intakes. You will have to cut away portions of the kit plastic on the lower fuselage half to make these fit.
Read about Reskit's new 1/32 F-111A cockpit escape module kit
Some upgrades to kits can seem a little unnecessary but these, however, will add real refinement… especially the seats as they are so visible, particularly if the Hawk’s large canopy is posed open. If you’re seeking the utmost in detail and fidelity, they are certainly worth the outlay. All items are available direct from Reskit, but also in the UK from Hannants.
