Gremlin 1/48 Lavochkin LA-5 - any good

[krofire]

I just picked up the Resin Gremlin 1/48 Lavochkin LA-5 off EBay. More out of curiosity than anything else. I had previously planned to put together a 1/48th scale La-5 from a mix of the Hobbycraft and Ltd Kits (for the wings). Maybe the Gremlin Kit is better?

Any opinions? Have I bought a dud (a turkey)? Will it be better than the planned hybrid?

 

[Massimo Tessitori]

Hi Krofire,
I think that the Gremlin kit should be fair. I've reviewed one on the base of documents from the manufacturer. He hoped to reissue it a pair of years ago, but it seems that he has renounced.
Please have a look at my La-5 page.
I'm interested on your impressions on the model.
Massimo

[Michael_XIII]

At first look the Gremlin La-5 looks has at least one big trouble - in front part engine cowling.

Better choice - is Vector, http://mig3.sovietwarplanes.com/la5/vector/vector.htm

but if it is not accessible, try ti kit-bash Gremlin with Hobbycraft engine part. Ерштлштп that another possible problems can be found, but I have not Gremlin for comparing.

[krofire]

Thanks again to Massimo - I forgot about the review of the Gremlin Kit on your La-5 page. I read it some time ago. I will have another review of this article and look at the kit when it arrives. Cheers.

[krofire]

I received the kit in good condition the other day. No complaints but it is a little daunting a task. The texture of the resin is quite rough and there are several nasty bubbles. But nothing I cannot fix and, to be fair, Zed does mention this in the Instructions.

The Assembly drawing is next to useless but there are very few parts. Broadly I think I agree with the comments made elsewhere (mentioned above). I think I will try to acquire the Legend resin cockpit that was designed for the Hobbycraft or Academy La-5/7 (??) as they also occasionaly appear on good-old EBay. I think I should just stock up on the various kits out there so I have a healthy set of spare parts before tackling the Gremlin itself.

However, I see no reason why it should shape up to a presentable model in the end. I will let you know how it turns out. My model bench is currently packed up with the space converted into a Nursery - such is life. We will be moving house (hopefully). When the dust settles on all these life-changing events I will put it top of the to-do list for you folks.

[Massimo Tessitori]

Hi Mark,
my main worries about the model is that the junction between the fuselage halves divide the circular intake of engine cowling; any eventual geometrical imperfection in this junction will result as very visible.
My compliments for your little child.
Please keep us informed on this model.
Massimo