Raiden Jack

The Tamiya 1/48 M2J3 Raiden (Jack) #61018 model kit is an excellent value for the money. This one has been around since 1973 and has since been superceded by the Hasegawa model version of this aircraft which is more accurate and detailed. Although the Tamiya kit has a mix of raised and recessed panel lines, this deficiency is largely obscured by the dark paint scheme (i.e. IJN (Imperial Japanese Navy) Deep Green) and the large national insignia markings found on this aircraft. Seat belt detail is minimal, however if the seated pilot figure is used, this becomes a mute point. As an added bonus, a standing pilot figure is also provided. An aftermarket die cut canopy mask set is a must purchase for this build as the raised frame detail on the one-piece clear canopy part is nearly non-existent. I use a canopy mask set from Dead Design Models, Item VM48 012. During my build of this model, I found that I did not have IJN Deep Green, so I substituted this color with Vallejo Model Air 71.007 Olive Green. I also did not have Blue Green paint so I used Vallejo Model Color 70.943 Grey Blue for the main landing gear bays and internal surfaces of the landing gear covers. I had not received my Aotake Blue Metallic paint at the time of this build. As recent historical research indicated that the canopy interior was not Blue Green called out for in the instructions, I used Mission Models MMP-079 RAF Interior Green as a substitute for Nakajima Green, which historical references indicate is the correct color for the cockpit interior surfaces of this aircraft. As the kit did not include decals for the leading wing edge identification stripes, I had to mask them off and then airbrush them on the aircraft model. I used Mr. Hobby Acrysion Orange Yellow as the color for these markings. Parts fit was good with the exception of a gap found along the rear edge of the wing assembly where it met with the fuselage. For my build, I rigged the antenna wires with EZ line fine thread. Due to the low parts count, two tone camouflage pattern and low decal count, this kit can be recommended for scale model builders of all levels. Decal installation and airbrush skills are recommended for best results.

This kit represents one of the best Japanese WW2 aircraft, the punishment it delivered was something else and it made a dent in the bombing of Japan. The kit is easy to assemble, paint and add decals to in one day! There are all very good instructions with all Tamiya kits and the paint scheme sheet is very accurate and a big addition to the kit. I have all the Japanese aircraft models in single engine for the most part and this is my favorite. I would recommend this kit to anyone with a few aircraft kits in their collection.

This kit has been around for decades, but stands the test of time well. It is accurate, easy to build and captures the portly but streamlined look of the Raiden. The fit is excellent, the detail well represented and for the price, it is a tremendous value, and is inexpensive enough to practice weatherting, adding aftermarket details without worrying about breaking the bank. Highly recommended.