The NEXT version of Kongo is already out. The only qualifier is that if you like properly scaled detail, then you should be prepared to replace certain small bits, because the NEXT kits are designed as snap together kits, albeit of better detail. That might also mean filling a number of placement holes.
Commenting in another thread about the new Fujimi 1/700 NEXT Kagero and Yugumo class DD kits, caledonina had these opinions:
Quote:
In general I think the NEXT kit is better than their regular kits both in terms of detail and molding. More details are included in the NEXT kit that were omitted in the regular kit, for example the underwater sonar ports and the kingston valves on the bottom of the hull. The molding is also much sharper and crisp than the regular kit. The anchor deck is simply the best deck I have seen for a destroyer in this scale so far."
"Forget the "snap fit and coloured part breakdown" subtitle. These are proper kits of there own. "snap fit", yes, it is simply a tighter fit between the locator pins and holes than the regular kit. "coloured part breakdown", it is simply naked/original colour of the plastic itself, no paint was applied any where. So it is nothing different from the regular kits. I have both the regular and the NEXT versions of the Yamato, Kagero (Late), and Hiei. The difference is phenomenal. NEXT is much better formed and crisply molded and contains more detail. Of course the flag poles and the RDF loop are a bit thick for the snap fit purpose, but I replace them anyway regardless of the NEXT or regular. So it doesn't bother me. Besidesit is not like the regular flag poles and the RDF loop are any better. ah yes, also the NEXT 25mm triple mounts are a leap from the one included in the regular kit.
Personally, they are worth the price tag compared to a regular one."
The new Kajika kits are excellent, better, I think, then the Fujimi kits. Two kits have been reviewed here, and I am currently working on a review for Kirishima :
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