1/72 Hasegawa F/A-18E

[Matt C]

Thanks guys!

Lee, I've heard it explained (can't remember from where/who, it's likely just anecdotal) that in Japan modelers are less into using aftermarket as a whole, and like to just use kit decals.  Thus, manufacturers can release these limited editions at huge prices with only new decals, because that's what the market wants, an all in one package.  They also seem to do a great deal of the modern US Navy aircraft that were stationed in Japan as limited edition kits.  The Chippy Ho! VFA-195 CAG bird is one that springs to mind as a constant limited edition, they're based in Japan with CVW-5.  (Cool Picture of CVW-5 CAG Birds: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/81/CVW-5_Apr2007.jpg/1280px-CVW-5_Apr2007.jpg )

But yeah, $53 is nuts for 1/72, but usually you'll find them for about half that, or less, after 6-12 months.  The regular edition E or F Super Hornet seems to go for about $15-25 (and I've bought/seen many at shows for $10). 

[Bill L2]

Cool looking Hornet Matt. The inboard fin flash looks like the Harley Davidson symbol! The Harley Hornet

[Lee_K]

Excellent review, Matt! 

$53 for a 1/72 jet?  Yikes!

Lee K

[Ryan K]

Congrats on another build and review.

[Matt C]

I managed to finish another kit for the IPMS Review Corps, this time a 1/72 Hasegawa Super Hornet in a really neat scheme for VFA-147 Argonauts.  Nice kit, minus the intakes!  I'll bring it along on Sunday.

http://web.ipmsusa3.org/content/fa-18e-super-hornet-vfa-147-argonauts-limited-edition