French
Hanriot H232. Azur. 1/72nd
By Ley Reynolds. mmpbooks.biz
Apr 11, 2006, 10:45

Another idiosynchratic release from this Franco-Czech concern, the H232 was a late 1930's vintage tandem two-seat twin-engined trainer, 32 of which had been delivered to the Armee de 1'Air by 1940. Little is known of their use after the armistice, but 3 were delivered to Finland in 1941.
My references are limited to a 1972 Finnish publication which includes 1/72 scale drawings. In comparison to these the wing is alright in span but a tad narrow in chord, while the fuselage is 2mm too short - not worth worrying about in my view. However the nacelles need to be extended 5mm at the front if the drawings are correct. Internals are adequate but will be enhanced by seat belts, throttle quadrant and some "black boxes", as all is visible through the excellent vac-form canopy; only one provided however. Strangely the propeller blades, pitot and some of the short airframe struts are provided in resin - not a wise decision in my opinion - and I recommend they be replaced by plastic items if possible.

External detailing is by way of fine engraved lines with a subtle ribbed effect for fabric surfaces. The engraved outlines to the control surfaces may look better if deepened somewhat. As with all Azur kits there are no locating pins and only butt joints between the fuselage and wings. This latter area can be strengthened with the insertion of pins.

Markings are provided for French, German and Finnish aircraft, with the camouflage colours keyed to FS Numbers. In conclusion, a well engineered and hence easily assembled kit of an unusual subject. However I can't help feeling that there are other French aircraft of the period that are historically more important and that have yet to be kitted. Eight out of ten for the kit but perhaps six out of ten for the subject.

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