IJN Submarine RO-35
Reviewed by Timothy Dike
| The RO-35 was a K-6 Type Submarine built
in 1943. Armed with 21" oxygen propelled torpedo's they packed a deadly
punch. But these submarines operated in dangerous waters and most did not
survive the war. The RO-35 was probably lost due to ASW operations by the
USS Patterson while operating in the Solomon Isles less than a year after
her launching.
This kit from Pit-Road will build most any of the K-6 Type subs. As a bonus Type D midget sub is included as well. |
|
| The kit can be built as either a full hull or waterline kit. A lower hull or flat bottom insert can be attached at the surfaced waterline. Molding is pretty good, even though this kit has been around for a little while. The bow halves are molded separately so there will be some seams to fill before painting. The kit includes a base for for full hull display. |
to enlarge  |
| A decal sheet is provided with plenty of markings for most any of the Japanese subs. Flags, and hull markings are just some of the decals included. |  |
| The instructions are good, consisting of a little history and several exploded views showing the various subassemblies. It is straight forward and easy to follow. |  |
| Typical of the water line series of kits this one has a painting guide on the back of the box with color numbers for the Pitroad and Guze Sangyo line of paints. The art work is pretty detailed and includes rigging. |  |
| Conclusions:
This kit has been on the market for a few years, but is a pretty nice kit with sharp detailing and plenty of potential. It can be built out of the box with good results. But add a some PE rails and rigging and you have a real nice representation of one of Japan's famous WW 2 submarines. This is kit #W45 and has a current retail of about $14.95 US. |
|
