[Epapazian]

I am struck by the comments of some members of this forum who state that HM's decision to do a Kate in diecast doesn't really garb them. I take this to mean that they won't buy the Kate.

In my opinion, this is a big mistake. Not because I can't see why everyone isn't in love with the Kate. Far from it. What's at stake here, is bigger and more important than any single model offered by a diecast marketer. If HM's Kate sells well---even if they get the camouflage and/or markings of the first example wrong--this will be a signal to HM and others---Corgi, Gemini, FOV, and even Dragon----that they can depart from their customary "safe" selections ( P-51, P-40, BF-109, etc ) and give us some of the many planes we have been clamoring for, without getting stuck with a lot of unsold inventory at the stores, online vendors and elsewhere in their distribution chains.

So I urge our members to think big on this one. if the Kate is a success sales-wise, this may lead to an IL-2M, P-61, SB2C, TBD, MC-202, Val, F-105, F-111, and a lot of other "risky" models we would like to add to our collections. Here's a great chance to influence the diecast-makers using something that will really get their attention---our wallets.

[Cruver Collecter]

To be honest, I think the HM Kate will sell fairly well. Considering HM usually does a run of 5 to 6 planes, I am already looking forward to what other paint schemes the Kate will be produced in. Kate was a bit of a surprise and that is a good thing, not a case of just doing a rerun of something that has already been made (Well at least in 1/72nd scale). In fact I have already contacted my favorite retailer and had him put me down for one of these (Also the Midway Buffalo in addition to next two Bf 110s, Duxford "County of London" P-39, and Wykeham-Barnes Gloster Gladiator). Not that many Japanese aircraft currently available as it is, nice to see something new.

[jim]

You make a very good point Epapazian.

Its certainly in our interests to encourage manufactures to bring out new models.

HM is to be applauded for its efforts so far (despite the problem panel lines).

I dont see a problem with HM making a Kate, it should sell well in the US surely.
For my part I would invest in at least one.
In 1/72 I have bought one example of all the HM releases.

[fileasfog]

I'm happy HM makes a Kate, I was pleasently surprised, I just wish there will be pilots in this one.

[Shawn 507]

You can have mine, or the six they'll make of this plane. Only interested in it if they made it look like it was on fire and smoking in. Something like this perhaps.....

[hworth18]

Originally Posted by Cruver Collecter

To be honest, I think the HM Kate will sell fairly well. Considering HM usually does a run of 5 to 6 planes, I am already looking forward to what other paint schemes the Kate will be produced in. Kate was a bit of a surprise and that is a good thing, not a case of just doing a rerun of something that has already been made (Well at least in 1/72nd scale).[/color]

I agree.. I will be buying a few Kates and I will even buy a few Pearl Harbor variants.. I am also looking forward to a "folded wing" version..

[jim]

Originally Posted by hworth18

I agree.. .. I am also looking forward to a "folded wing" version..

Glad you said folded and not folding!
I remember some controversy about folding wings last time that was mentioned, something about "huge gaps".

[larz]

I, for one, am tired of the s.o.s. I glady welcome Kate. It will be a great addition to my collection.

Larz

[Celtic]

Great statement, E. Remember, the Kate fought in every major battle in the Pacific War, and was considered highly effective by the Allies. This is our chance to get out of the Euro-centric model routine and finally get some real variety. I plan to buy one of each (and if I could afford it, I'd buy two of each and give them as gifts!).

I think, too, that HM made the right decision by making this model in 1/72.

Thought: The Kate had a crew of three; wouldn't it be nice to see a full compliment!

Next we may see a Val (the most destructive airplane in the Pacific War).

(Note: I just discovered how hard it is to type with crossed fingers!)

[PappyB]

I think it's great that HM is making it, and hopefully will lead to additional Japanese aircraft in 1:72 -- such as a Betty (plzzzzzzzzzzz.) However, I do not (at least anymore ) subscribe to the buy "something I don't quite want in hopes it will fund something I do..." That was part of my rationale for paying $140 for a GMP Texas Longhorn P-40... and look what happened there

I have a Kate from Marushin in 1:48 so I'm not sure if I'll be adding one of these, plus I'm thinking of only collecting larger scale WWII stuff now (1:48-1:32). But diversity is only a good thing in my book, so bring 'em on HM.. I'm weak and could cave and buy one or two. If I don't get rid of my 1:72 Corsairs and Hellcats, they'll need something to shoot at!