Focke-Wulf Fw 190A-5/6
Cockpit
 

Meteor Productions

HyperScale is proudly sponsored by Meteor Productions

Cutting Edge continues to go from strength to strength with their resin cockpit sets.

In this example, the 1/48 scale Focke-Wulf Fw 190A-5/6 replacement cockpit set, Cutting Edge has achieved remarkable fidelity of detail. The undercuts on the map holder, seat rails, and wiring loom in the cockpit tub simply must be seen to be believed.

To allay the fears of those modelers for whom accuracy is paramount, Cutting Edge have noted that this set is configured as per "tech orders"; that is to say, this is outfitted as a standard A-5/6 cockpit would be, and they acknowledge there may be slight differences between the fit found on their set versus photos of other operational aircraft. While this may seem an obvious point, it should be appreciated by all modelers that Cutting Edge cares enough about the accuracy of their products to take note of such exceptions on the instruction sheet.

The parts themselves are extremely well cast, with the only flash in evidence being found on the pour stubs of the seat and the tub. No pinholes or casting flaws are visible, and from previous experience with their products, I can say that enamels will work like a charm on the resin.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

A recent trend with Cutting Edge's cockpit sets (their German ones, anyway) is to include two styles of instrument panels; one for use with the included instrument film and built up in a "sandwich" fashion, and one with instrument faces molded in, ready to paint. I prefer the latter approach myself, but again the inclusion of BOTH styles adds a great deal of value to the set, and allows one to use the spare panels in another kit. This set takes that approach to another level, as it includes both standard and nightfighter panels. The latter panel features an FuG217 Neptun scope in place of the SZKK4 ammo counter at the top left of the instrument panel. This makes the set ideal for those with DML kit 5514, the Fw190A-8/R11 Nachtjäger (the panel layout is almost identical).

The pilot's seat is also worthy of note. A full harness is molded in, with the upper part of the shoulder harnesses extending above the seat to mount against the rear bulkhead as is proper for an Fw190. In addition to all of the above, two beautifully cast gunsights are provided, a Revi C12 and Revi 16B. Take care not to lose whichever one you don't use, as it will surely come in handy for a 109 or 190 down the line!

While the set is more expensive than other 190 cockpits on the market, the inclusion of the extra panels, optional gunsights, and the overall fidelity of detail make this a worthwhile investment for anyone building a 1/48 Fw190A-5 or A-6.

Recommended.

My thanks to Meteor Productions for the review sample.