Kitech F/A-18D 1:72 - WIP

[WigWag Workshop]

Good Day Folks!

OK OK OK, So, I'm bad bad boy!! My parents sent me some presents for Christmas, so like any kid (Big or Small) I shook the box, and heard that familiar sound of styrene in a cardboard box. I just had to rip off the wrapping paper to see which kits I had. I posted in another thread asking about them, I guess I should have just looked them up. I chose this kit, to build first. I still need to do my research about the 1:1 this kit was made after. I do have a question though, the box states F/A-18D Wild Weasel - and the instructions states F/A-18D - Fighting Falcon.

-Steven

[TRM]

Sweetness!! I'm in!! Love the 18....one of my favorites!!

[deafpanzer]

WOW! You got your presents already. Why can't my wife do the same to me? 8-( Great kit... looking forward to see how it comes out!

I spot unpainted jeep and HT in the background... what scale are those?

[venom1]

Hi Steven!

The correct name for this aircraft is F/A-18D Hornet, the Wild Weasel designation is given to aircraft which are tasked with the destruction of enemy radar installations (hence the carriage of HARM missiles). A number of different aircraft types have been Wild Weasel aircraft, including the F-16 Fighting Falcon and the F-4 Phantom II. This particular kit is indeed an F/A-18, the instructions are wrong, it is not an F-16!!! Also keep in mind that the Delta model Hornet is a two seater. It appears the kit has the option for single and two seaters? The Wild Weasel Hornets are all two seat D models....

Now for the bad news. Unfortunately, you do not have the greatest kit out there my friend. The Kitech kit is a cheap knock off of the Hobbycraft Hornet, which in itself ain't the greatest. Be prepared for a fair chunk of filling and sanding with this baby! From what I understand, you will need to put in a fair bit of elbow grease to get a respectable kit. There are also a few shape issues when compared to the real thing, however unless you are a complete wing nut like me, thats probably not going to worry you too much.

I have also heard that the decals are complete and utter rubbish, and practically disintegrate once they get within a foot and a half of any water source. They may be ok, but be prepared to source after market decals or raid the spares box.

Having said that, it can still be turned into a half decent rendition of the Hornet if you are willing to put the effort in. Please don't let any of my comments discourage you (especially from building wingys in general!!), I only wanted to give you a heads up and let you know what you are in for before you start screaming and throwing things around the room (been there!!!).

I will be looking on eagerly to see how this wee beastie pans out! ;D

Cheers,

Sam

[WigWag Workshop]

Dec 11, 2012 21:38:44 GMT -5 deafpanzer said:

I spot unpainted jeep and HT in the background... what scale are those?

They are 1:72 scale, there are 3 different ground vehicles in that kit. I will be posting some information on them in the armor section soon.

Sam:
Awesome, thanks for the information! Soon as I opened and inspected this kit, I know I was in for a rough build. some of the parts, have more styrene flashing, then the actual part. I like a challenge, and will give it my best effort. I appreciate you taking the time, to post all the information, and you have NOT discouraged me at all.

-Steven

[modelfreak72]

Hey Steven! I'm rollin with this one! the F/a 18 is a pretty plane!

[venom1]

Hey Steven,

Not a problem mate, anything to help a fellow modeller! Glad I have not discouraged you, I look forward to seeing this old girl unfold!

Cheers,

Sam