1:48 N1K2-J Shiden-Kai gun barrels

N1K2-J Shiden-Kai Gun Barrels 1:48 (Quickboost)

This resin set from the Quickboost brand, made by Aires, brings faithfully cast wing cannon barrels for a model of the Japanese single-engine fighter Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden-Kai in 1:48 scale. It is not an airplane model but a detail accessory for more experienced modelers, replacing the thicker plastic barrels with a slim casting of correct profile and sharp muzzle. The wing leading edges then look more faithful than out of the box.

The real subject

The Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden-Kai was a Japanese single-engine land-based fighter from the end of the Second World War, known to the Allies under the code name George. It was an improved version of the Shiden fighter with a lowered fuselage and a new tail, and it ranked among the best Japanese naval fighters of its day. It carried four 20 mm cannons in the wings.

Tips for working with resin

First wash the castings in lukewarm soapy water to remove mold release residue. Cut the casting blocks off with a saw and sand the cut surfaces with your airways protected. Bond the barrels with super glue (cyanoacrylate), not with plastic cement.

Who the set is for

• More experienced modelers who want to raise the fidelity of the model
• Builders for whom the part from the plastic kit is not enough
• Anyone interested in working with resin and fine castings
• Collectors building models for contests and display cases

The set is supplied as a resin part, unassembled and unpainted. It is not an airplane model but an accessory for a plastic kit. Glue, paints and the kit are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.