Here are pics of a simple, out-of-the-box build of Hasegawa's Japanese Battleship Hiei, circa 1942. While I realize this kit is dated compared to Fujimi's more recent Kongo class kits, it still is better than the original 1970s era waterline consortium Kongo kits. I also really think that because she has a unique superstructure, Hiei is one of the better-looking modernized Kongo class ships, with an intricate, towering pagoda that rivals the Fuso class.
I built it is a "control" or something to compare to, when I later build my Hasegawa kit of the sister ship Kirishima, for which I am gathering some after-market items such as PE, metal barrels etc. When both are done, I intend to name the display "Abe's giants" after IJN Admiral Abe's two battleships during the Battle of Guadalcanal.
Happy Holidays to all and hope you're building more models during Covid lockdowns.
