Black Box has quickly established a reputation for producing fine resin cockpit sets. Dating back to 1999 when they first introduced their phenomenal 1/32 set for the Revell Corsair and continuing to today, they have continued to offer modellers a high quality product.

Set 48063 for the Hasegawa 1/48 F-18A/C perpetuates the Black Box tradition. This set contains no less than 28 finely cast resin parts consisting of both F-18A and C instrument panels, both SJU/5A and SJU17A NACES ejection seats, canopy actuators, rear deck, Avionics housing and boxes, throttle, control column, rudder pedals, complete multi-piece cockpit tub, nose wheel landing gear doors, front wheel well bulkhead, and numerous antennae.

All parts are cleanly cast and no pinholes or casting bubbles were found on any parts. The level of detail and relief is excellent and will look fabulous once painted, washed and dry-brushed.

The instructions are well done and while no basic painting information is provided for the main parts of the cockpit, good painting notes are provided for both of the ejection seats. Unlike many of the instructions found in some of the Eastern European resin sets, these instructions are clear and concise and will go a long way to simplifying the installation of the detail set.

While it has a manufacturers suggested retail price of $34.10, most modellers should be able to locate the set for less at some hobby shops.

Review sample provided by Sky Grid
Reviewed by Randy Lutz