Valom 72033 1/72 Handley Page Hampden B.Mk.I

After literally decades of nothing but the Airfix kit, Valom finally provides us with an all-new tool of the Hampden, a.k.a. "the flying suitcase." Unlike earlier Valom releases, which relied on resin for complicated and detailed parts like engines, this release's only concession to "multi-media" is a small fret of photo-etch for seatbelts, antennas, and the instrument panel. All other parts are in injection plastic, and they look very nice. The surface detailing in particular is incredible. A bomb bay with structural detail is included, although the doors themselves are molded closed and lack internal detail. No bombs are included either; however, dedicated modelers should be able to easily overcome these slight drawbacks if they wish to display the bay open. The instructions include period photos detailing the internal areas, a welcome addition. Decals are included for a B.Mk.I of No.49 Sq. in 1940 and a Coastal Command Mk.I of No.1404 (Met.) Flight (later No.517 Sq.).