Fine Molds' 1/48 scale
A5M1 Claude

Steven J. Corvi

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This is the old but very good 1/48 scale Fine Molds kit of the A5M1 Claude.  As far as I know this the only 1/48 version of the early model Claude although there may be a vacu-form kit out there.  The more recent 1/48 Classic Airframes kits were later model Claude which differ much from this variant.

The kit was pretty much built straight from the box except for some added details in the cockpit; Eduard seatbelts, and instrument panel scratchbuilt.  Otherwise it was a simple straightforward build.  I have always liked this type with its elliptical wings configuration and its similarities to the USAAC P-26 Peashooter.  The detail parts in this kit like the prop, engine parts, telescopic cockpit sight, and seat are provided in white metal. The kit is finely molded in injected molded plastic with fine details. 

The fit is very good but there is some cleaning up to do before construction.  I would rate this kit between Special Hobby, Classic Airframes and older Eduard kits in quality of molding and details, except this kit does not have any etched brass details which those manufacturers provide in there respective kits. 

This kit is getting harder to find but if you find one at a show or see one I would not hesitate to build it.

Recommended!

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Model, Images and Text Copyright © 2008 by Steven J. Corvi
Page Created 6 July, 2008
Last Updated 6 July, 2008

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