[mhackl]

I was talking about this model on the phone today with Harry. We'd agreed that it's one of Franklin's best. During the discussion I remembered that I had taken this picture back when this model debuted. Though it's not a new model, I thought I'd share the picture with you just the same.


All images posted are for the collector’s benefit and may not be reproduced for commercial use without the written consent of On Mark International, Inc. USA

B11E069
Nakajima A6M2-N RUFE
JN 5th Air Wing, Aleutian Islands, 1942
9" (22.9cm) wingspan
A 1/48th Scale Diecast model from The Franklin Mint's Collection Armour series.

[flyXwire]

That's really very nice. I might get this one as well.

[Ara1]

Thanks for posting this. Maybe they'll do a light tan one.

[aeroeng]

I love this floatplane. I got one for my baby for his first Christmas present.

[flyXwire]

I've been considering this model for the longest time now, and I think I'm gonna take the plunge and get it already. Anyone have this pariticular model in hand and would like
to share their thoughts on it? Thanks.

[hworth18]

Originally Posted by flyXwire

I've been considering this model for the longest time now, and I think I'm gonna take the plunge and get it already. Anyone have this pariticular model in hand and would like
to share their thoughts on it? Thanks.

I have one and it is one of the few FM planes that I display as it is a very nice piece..

[parsig9]

That is sharp. Too bad they don't fill the screw holes though. Maybe w/ the price increase we'll see some of that.

[planenutsfrog]

Excellent subject, looks good from above, but...

It is based on the A6M mould. So, many disgraceful gaps underside, resulting from the removal (and poor sealing) of the arrester hook and ldg gear.

The scoop between the rear of the engine's cowling, and the top of the main float's pylon is missing.

No details painted in the cockpit.

The canopy requires some adjustement to fit correctly.

[flyXwire]

Originally Posted by planenutsfrog

Excellent subject, looks good from above, but...

It is based on the A6M mould. So, many disgraceful gaps underside, resulting from the removal (and poor sealing) of the arrester hook and ldg gear.

The scoop between the rear of the engine's cowling, and the top of the main float's pylon is missing.

No details painted in the cockpit.

The canopy requests some adjustement to fit correctly.

Very interesting observations, planenutsfrog! Thanks for that. Tell me this though, would you say that this a/c looks close or acceptable enough to
the real subject it is portrayed as, given the shortcomings that FM missed and failed to address on this subject?

[1250ships]

The screw holes are a problem in particular the one on the float but bigger underside issue is that it should not have landing gear. It was a pure float plane and did not require wheels. Looks like FM just used a gear up Zero as their starting point. It is hard to find photos from that same angle but this one gives you an idea:



The dolly is different in this photo but I'm willing to give them leeway on that because I have no idea if there were different dollys used for the aircraft.

As with many diecast models it is unlikely anyone else will do this in 1/48 so if you really want one you have to decide to overlook the flaws.