The Kawanishi N1K2-J Shiden Kai (Violet Lightning Modified, Allied reporting name "George") was one of the primary Japanese Navy fighters at the end of World War. Strangely, its origins can be traced back to a floatplane fighter design (Kawanishi’s N1K1 Kyofu, or Mighty Wind).
This all-new N1K2-J finally provides a modern alternative to the ancient Doyusha “George.” Hasegawa’s kit is beautifully molded in neutral gray plastic and provides a complete engine, drop tank, pilot figure, open/closed canopy options, and posable flaps.
I started construction with the cockpit module. Many of the parts are separate, which helps accentuate the detail. The completed cockpit builds into a separate unit that neatly slips into the assembled fuselage.
The engine assembly is complex but results in an impressive-looking replica. Make sure you study the alignment points noted in the instructions: Misalignment will cause the exhaust stacks to be out of position.
Hasegawa has gone to great effort to provide a sturdy and well-aligned build. The fuselage has no fewer than three bulkheads, and there are several locking tabs as well. These help align the horizontal tail planes and wing attachment.
The wing assembly was an easy build. Hasegawa has included a wing spar, so the proper dihedral is assured. The wing fits perfectly to the fuselage and needs no filler. A thing of beauty!
Out of the box, the separate landing flaps are designed to be installed in the extended position. I found they were a tight fit at the hinge attachment points; I recommend a dry run before painting. If you want the flaps retracted (the normal state on the ground), you need to modify the parts according to the instructions.
I painted my George with a combination of Gunze Sangyo Aqueous Hobby Color and Mr. Color for Imperial Japanese Navy aircraft. I used AK Interactive chipping solution to replicate the wear and tear seen in photos of these aircraft.
Decals are provided for two aircraft. They applied well but required care — I found they cracked easily. Also, the yellow stripes were translucent, allowing underlying colors to bleed through.
I used Model Art No. 304: Kawanishi N1K1/N1K2-J as my primary reference. Also, I found Famous Airplanes of the World 53: Kyofu, Shiden, Shidenkai, by Ichiro Mitsui (Bunrin Do) useful. Both had photos and color drawings of the aircraft I chose to model.
I completed my George in 20 hours. I have found Hasegawa’s 1/32 scale fighters are pretty straightforward, and this one was no exception. It’s a build that can be handled by modelers of all skill levels. If you like 1/32 scale fighters, don’t pass up this kit.
Note: A version of this review appeared in the May 2014 FineScale Modeler.