Kyushu J7W1 18-Shi Interceptor Fighter Shinden

Another from the clearance sale. Standard model pretty easy build I had fun and it came out great

A couple of prototypes of this plane were built in the last days of the Pacific War. I think one is sitting in the Smithsonian. One of the things that surprised me about this kit was it's size in comparison to other fighters in the same scale. It rivals the Hellcat and Corsair and would dwarf a Bearcat easily (to my surprise the Bearcat is the size of a mouse compared to the Wildcat and Hellcat). Anyhow, I had a lot fun putting this kit together. Hasegawa did a fine job producing this model with recessed panel lines and a good fit throughout. One thing to look out for is the forward antenna that juts out from the bottom (actual design feature). Mine broke and I decided to customize a one by filing a paperclip somewhat flat and cutting to proper length. This machine packs a big punch w/ four 30mm cannons. I have a book called Japanese Secret Projects: Experimental Aircraft of the IJA and IJN, by Edwin M. Dyer III, that features this fighter/interceptor among a wide variety of other types. Since this is an experimental unit it doesn't have much beyond general IJNAF markings but that should be expected. Overall this is a beautiful, sleek design and a welcome project for anyone's Pacific War era collection.