TAMIYA 1:48 GLOSTER METEOR F.1

Reviewer: John Hall  (rec.models.scale newsgroup)

The Meteor holds claim to the title of being the first British jet-powered fighter, it first flew in prototype form in March 1943 and during mid 1944 equipped the first squadron to operate Meteors.  The F.1 Meteor had a top speed of just under 620 km/h. 

Tamiya's kit comes in a nice package with all sprues individually wrapped, the decals float loosely in the box.  The plastic is decked out in a dark grey colour and detailed with fine engraved panel lines.On opening the packages and examining the contents you see that the moulds look good with most measurements seemingly spot on when compared to references. The cockpit is quite basic with a simple control panel and decal for instruments. The narrow seat also has a companion pilot but he does not look very complemental as a resulting figure in the cockpit. There are no rudder pedals or other details on the side walls but there is a seatbelt decal.

There are clear engine covers which allow you to view the engines inside although a little bit of special attention is needed to make it look outstanding. Wheel wells are reasonable in detail but only separate hubs are moulded on one side. The tricycle undercarriage is quite reasonable in detail also and includes a weight to keep the model steady. Speed brakes are included allowing you to have them open or closed although they don't look particularly accurate to me. There are also two canopy pieces to allow positioning as opened and small rearview mirror is also included. Nice Touch.

There are three Scalemaster decal options which include the Meteor Prototype DG202/G and made up of a scheme of Dark Green & Earth brown with yellow undercover - not to mention the "P" in a circle indicating the aircraft is a prototype. Two other fighter scheme versions from 616 Sqn are also included YQ-E EE216 and YQ-Y EE227.

Assembling the kit is typical of Tamiya with all parts fitting quite well and crisply. Other than the usual requirements for carefulness on small and clear parts there is not a lot to comment on because the kit revealed no real surprises or problems.  Overall this is a nice kit, the price is the biggest downer, it is quite expensive (as are most Tamiya kits) but it's still worthwhile nonetheless.  If you are looking for a nice replication with ease of fitting, you will be happy with this kit.

Back to home
Kit Review Index:    1/72      1/48

Tamiya F.1 Meteor publicity shot