Cutting Edge 1/32
Bf 109B-1 Airframe Conversion

Here is one of the more anticipated releases from Cutting Edge Modelworks - a backdate set to convert Hasegawa's 1/32 scale Bf 109E to the earlier production version of this famous fighter, the Bf 109B-1. Cutting Edge also released CEC32132 Bf 109A/B/C/D Superdetailed Cockpit at the same time to provide an interior backdate to compliment this exterior conversion set.

This set is a straightforward conversion that still requires some experience and skills working with resin parts and making precise cuts in your kit airframe.

The conversion starts with the cowling, with the complex structure of the early nose captured in this set. The upper cowling, forward underside, chin-mounted radiator, and early exhaust stacks are all nicely replicated and will simply drop onto the firewall of the Hasegawa kit, once the kit nose is cut along panel lines per the instructions.

The underside of the wing is also altered with a new midsection that captures new wheel wells, the absence of the big underwing radiators and the addition of unique bumps and blisters of this version.

The kit is rounded out with a new two-bladed propeller and spinner which really helps to set this early version off visually.

One last enhancement in this set is the addition of a replacement windscreen that corrects the Hasegawa windscreen as well as provides the accurate configuration seen on the early Bf 109s as well. Likewise, the replacement rear window section is also provided. Both are cast in Cutting Edge's great clear resin process.

This is a nicely done backdate set for the Hasegawa kit! With the combination of this airframe backdate set, the cockpit backdate, and one of the Cutting Edge Decal sets for the early Bf 109s, you'll finally be able to provide some distinctive alternatives to the usual Bf 109E/F/G/K kits on the contest tables.

Highly recommended!

My sincere thanks to Meteor Productions for this review sample!