Whenever Eduard releases a new kit, they start off with the Profipack version. If you don't want the photoetch or masks and want to save some money, wait a few months and a weekend edition will be released. I should mention that I've NEVER completed one of these in a weekend. These boxings are generally limited in markings options and there are frequently parts you cannot use because of a lack of photo etch.

The sprues are all nicely molded and I did find a bit of flash on some parts, but nothing that cannot be easily removed. The cockpit is nicely appointed and uses decals for seat harness and instruments. This assembly includes side wall framework and along with the tail gear well and the intake that you build up, are trapped in the fuselage halves.

As usual with Eduard, the main gear wells are made of multiple parts in order to provide the maximum detail. These parts are attached to the upper wing halves, which, when complete, are attached to the lower wing piece. This then fits to the completed fuselage, followed by the rudder, horizontal stabs and elevators. Ailerons are next along with the upper cockpit section and the tail gear.

This is followed by the main landing gear along with the multi-piece wheel/tire assembly. All the lower antennas and clear pieces are then attached. On the upper surface are the cockpit clear bits, engine exhaust and the prop. Follow the directions well to be sure you are using the right parts for this variant. As a note, aside from some very small bits, the only difference in the plastic parts used in this and the earlier series 1 kit are a pair of drop tanks and pylons. The series 2 also has the cannon barrels flush with the leading edge of the wing, though this feature could also be found on later series 1 planes.

Instructions are the standard book format with Gunze and Mission Model paint references. The two markings options are dark green and ocean grey over medium sea grey. Yellow wing leading edges with Sky fuselage bands and spinner. The box art option is for Pierre Clostermann's plane when he was with 3 Squadron. The other has the partial D-day stripes and was with 80 Squadron. Decals are nicely printed and you get a full stencil suite.

This kit replaces their earlier boxing from when the company was just getting underway and is a huge improvement over that earlier kit. Based on past experience, this one will probably be a fussy build, but if one goes slowly and carefully, one should have a very nice replica.