Hasegawa 1/32 scale Jumbo "Frank" from Hasegawa

Kit: No. ST24
Scale: 1/32
Manufacturer: Hasegawa, imported by Dragon Models USA, 626-968- 0322, www.dragonmodelsusa.com
Price: $44.98
Comments: Injection-molded, 142 parts (4 vinyl), decals
Pros: Excellent fit and decals, optional cowls, crisp clear parts, internal wing spar
Cons: Flaps in incorrect deployed position

Hasegawa continues its line of 1/32 scale kits with the Nakajima Ki-84 Hayate, better know by the Allies as the "Frank." The Japanese Army Air Force fighter was an elegant-looking radial-engine craft that had performance to match its good looks.

The parts are molded in neutral-gray plastic and feature drop tanks, extended landing flaps, and a seated pilot figure. The clear parts are exceptionally nice.

I started assembly with the cockpit. Hasegawa did an excellent job in capturing the busy interior of the Frank's cockpit. With careful painting, it'll look quite convincing, and the assembled cockpit module goes in between the fuselage halves neatly.

The rudder is separate so it can be angled realistically. Two cowlings are provided: One has closed flaps, and the other is open. Flap-linkage detail is even provided for the open one! The radial engine is accurately molded with both rows of cylinders.

The kit features an internal wing-spar box that helps maintain the wing's dihedral. The wings went together without any problems. The wing-to-fuselage fit is a bit tight but precise. You won't need any filler.

The flaps are in the deployed position, something you don't see on a parked Ki-84. You will need to trim off their attachment points to place the flaps into the wings.

The canopy consists of three parts and can be positioned open without modification. Hasegawa has provided clear parts for the navigation lights, too.

I painted my Ki-84 with Gunze Sangyo's Japanese Army Air Force acrylic colors. Decals are included for three aircraft. Hasegawa provided the white areas of the markings as separate decals and has provided others in alternate colors. The decals went down easily over a gloss undercoat. After application of a little setting solution, they looked perfect.

My primary reference was Famous Airplanes of the World No. 19: Army Type 4 Fighter "Hayate." The finished model captures the look of the "Frank" when compared to the photos.

I completed my Ki-84 in 22 hours. This is one of the best-engineered kits I've encountered. It was fun to build, and modelers of all experience levels will enjoy adding it to their collections.

- Jim Zeske