EF-111A Raven Cockpit

Black Box

Reviewed by Brett Green

Black Box's EF-111A Raven cockpit set is their second release for the Aardvark front office. The first release was for the F-111F. This set was designed with the assistance of Jim Rotramel, author of the recent "F-111 in Detail" series in HyperScale's Reference Library. For information on the colours and configuration of F-111 cockpits, click here to see Part Six of the series.

The cockpit tub is a large, single casting. The detail on the side consoles and the rear bulkhead is terrific. There is no casting block to speak of, but it would be wise to test fit thoroughly before gluing the cockpit tub into place.

The seats are crisply cast with moulded-on seat belts. Unfortunately, the drape of the belts is identical on both seats, which may be noticeable to the sharp-eyed observer.

The main instrument panel is is large and thinly cast. It will fit under the separate coaming part.

The details supplied for the kit canopy, including canopy frames, overhead control consoles and sills, is a great bonus for modellers who want to display the gull-wing canopy open. Remaining pieces include sticks, throttle, boxes and some small details.

The casting quality is very high, but care will be required when removing some of the pieces from their casting blocks.

Instructions take the form of a numbered parts list and two exploded-view construction drawings. A third diagram with painting suggestions for the seat is also included.

Academy's 1/48 scale F-111 is not a bad kit straight out of the box, but the installation of either this cockpit in the EF-111A version, or the earlier release in the F-111F, will contribute a vast improvement to the front end of either model.

The large cockpit will also reward the effort in preparation, assembly and painting.

Recommended.

Thanks to Mike Reeves from Jetset Models for the review sample.

Black Box products are available online from Jetset Models.
Click here to visit Jetset Models website

Review Copyright © 2002 by Brett Green
Page Created 21 June, 2002
Last updated 22 July, 2003

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