Martin-Baker Ejection Seats for F-8 Crusaders

Cutting Edge Modelworks

HyperScale is proudly sponsored by Meteor Productions

New from Cutting Edge Modeworks is a series of Martin-Baker ejection seats to suit the F-8 Crusader. The seats have been moulded with or without belts to suit the tastes of both camps.

CEC48422 (with belts) and CEC48463 (without belts) are Martin-Baker F7s. CEC48423 (without belts) is an F5. Depending on what you read and who you listen to, the F5 was first fitted to late F-8As, Bs, Cs and early Ds whilst the F7s were fitted to late F-8Ds and subsequent models onwards.

Each set comes with two sprues. The larger one is the seat itself whilst the smaller of the two carries the overhead activation handles as well as the one that fits on the seat pan between the pilot’s legs.

The parts are cast in Cutting Edge’s tough, flexible mid-grey resin. Flash is minimal with the majority of it to be found within the rings of the overhead activation handles. This can be removed by careful cutting with a new blade.

The casting itself is beautifully done. The detail is sharp and clear with sufficient relief so as it will stand out clearly after the addition of a thin wash but not look too overstated. I especially liked the way Cutting Edge has cast the top of the seat with a rebate to accept the overhead activation handles.

Each set comes packed in a clear plastic zip-log bag that has been stapled to a stiff cardboard header – simple yet effective.

The only thing missing from the sets is an instruction sheet. Not a big deal really, as it does not require a high IQ to assemble the seat. However, it would be nice to at least have a painting guide so as you can do justice to the beautiful casting.

Nice stuff from Cutting Edge and I’m sure that quite a few will find their way into the new Hasegawa kit!

Recommended.