RS Models 1/72 Nakajima Ki-87 Kit First Look
By David L. Veres
| Date of Review | March 2018 | Manufacturer | RS Models |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Nakajima Ki-87 | Scale | 1/72 |
| Kit Number | 92211 | Primary Media | Styrene |
| Pros | Crisp moldings, fine scribing, clear canopy | Cons | See text |
| Skill Level | Experienced | MSRP (Euro) | 18.00€ |
First Look
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Designed as a heavily armed, high-altitude interceptor of American B-29 formations, Nakajima's brawny Ki-87 failed to achieve production before Imperial Japan's collapse. Although 500 were ordered, only the prototype actually flew.
RS Models' 1:72-scale version sports 49 crisply molded, green plastic parts on two trees – and a one-piece, crystal clear canopy on a third.
Quality of the flash-free components is excellent. Highpoints include:
- subtle, uniformly recessed scribing
- beautifully detailed interior with instrument panel, joystick, seat, floor, rudder pedals, and bulkheads,
- raised cockpit sidewall scribing
- crystal-clear canopy with finely raised framing
- detailed supercharger
RS's easy-to-follow, four-page instructions include a parts map, 8-phase assembly sequence, and painting details. Decals cover Nakajima's prototype and two fictional schemes:
- Ki-87 1st Prototype, Chofu, Japan, August 1945
- Ki-87 56th Sentai, Itami, Japan, December 1945
- Ki-87 244th Sentai, Tokyo, Japan, November 1945
The box top's color guide illustrates all three subjects in port profile and plan views with color notes.
Experienced modelers of WWII Pacific Theater subjects will love this one. Like all RS kits, it's complete, out-of-the-box. And detail – especially interior presentation – easily exceeds that from many "mainstream" model manufacturers.
With thanks to RS Models for this review sample.