We got our first look here in Austin, Tx. at the new Gavia 1/48 Lavochkin La-7
kit today. Overall I think it deserves a very high rating, and matches well
in quality to the latest offerings from Eduard. (In fact, the surface detail
on this model is very similarto that of the Eduard P-39.)
Cockpit: This is probably the simplest part of the kit. Floorboard is built
into the underside of the wing, seat is nice, rudder pedals delicate, and
radio deck very well detailed. There are some details missing from the cockpit
sidewalls and the instrument panel is a bit spartan, but there is plenty here
with which to work.
Surface Detail: Exquisite, as pointed out before. Correct restraint has been
applied by Gavia to duplicate the utilitarian nature of the Russian WW2 fighter
, yet fasteners, rivet lines, and vent inlets/outlets have been given due
attention. Control surface trailing edges are a smidge thick, but easily
addressed.
Landing Gear: These are multiple part assemblies which include some very fine
detail such as torque links and actuator rods. The modeler will be pleased with
the relief provided by Gavia on the gear door interior surfaces. The wheels
themselves include excellent hub detail, even if that detail is a bit shallow,
and attachment points for wheels to gear and gear to wheel well are spindly.
Care in assembly will be required here. The wheel wells are as nice as one
would expect from a Tamiya offering, and only one of the many ways Gavia has
blown Hobbycraft's old La-7 away. Details here are extensive and include
separate cooling ducts as well as accurate relief and jewel-like inboard
doors/actuators.
Canopy: Looks good, and molded in three individual parts to allow modeler to
show off the cockpit if desired. Maybe these parts are somewhat thicker and
not as crystal clear as a Tamiya or Hasegawa example might be, but they
certainly are good enough. Gavia has provided Eduardesque masks for the canopy,
wheel hubs, and triangular red markings that appear on two aircraft examples
from the kit decals.
Decals: The color here looks good to my eye, as does the thickness. I have
never used Gavia decals, so I should not comment too strongly here. These
decals look very much like what you'd get in an Eduard kit. I am working from
memory here, so please forgive me on the marking choices. I know one of them
is for Ivan Kozedub's aircraft, and there is another example that appears to
be from his unit (same red triangles on cowl. One more decal option is
provided for a Czech version.
Instructions: I looked over them quickly, so I should not comment. One thing
that did attract my attention was the extensive detail and diagrams
concerning the application of the various masks. The cowl masks have a page
to themselves!
I think this is an exciting new kit from Gavia. They have been turning my
head with every new release since the PO-2, and I applaud them for honoring
the Lavochkin La-7 as they have. The best manufacturers out there would have
been proud of this kit in one of their very own boxes.
--
No more time for laughter
No more time for sorrow
No more morning after
'Cause there's no tomorrow now
We are standing on the edge
--
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