SCALE MODEL NEWS

A realistic-looking 1:20 scale walker bot stalks the surface of our neighbouring Moon, while back in the service bay, a same-scale figure set maintains the equipment. The Hasegawa 1:20 scale Luna Tactical Reconnaissance LUM-168 Camel is one of many futuristic war machines that feature in the Japanese Maschinen Krieger (Ma.K) science-fiction series. This new-tool kit features 225 components and includes multiple decal options. It looks great as is, but if you’re not so keen on the Ma.K universe, or you simply wish to make a kit-bashed version, then you can customize it how you like. The Ma.K series makes a useful change from Star Wars and Star Trek, the machinery looking just that bit different to the tech that features in either of these long-running movie franchises. It’s perhaps a pity that the 1:20 scale is a bit of a one-off, or at least not a standard kit scale such as 1:24/25. Having said that, Ma.K fits nicely (well, near enough, anyway) into the diecast standard scale of 1:18, ...

SMN report For lovers of World War I and big-scale aircraft models, here’s a gorgeous 1:32 scale kit from Wingnut Wings, the Sopwith Scout, or ‘Pup’, a single-seater that was much loved by its pilots. Some 2100 Pups were built during the Great War, and the Wingnut model builds into a very neat representation indeed. What’s in the box? The box features handsome art on the cover, while inside there are 128 injection-moulded plastic components and six photo-etch metal detail parts. The Cartograf decals that include markings for six different aircraft. Optional build items include different side and engine cowls, plus fuselage and upper wing. The LeRhone engine is a miniature masterpiece, while detail work throughout is good - just look at the sewn seams on the rear fuselage and the wood-effect around the cockpit. For the nimble-fingered model maker Wingnut provides a rigging diagram, and this of course sets the aircraft off a treat - in fact, it’s essential to make the best of a biplane t...