Hasegawa really stumbled on this kit... While the overall kit is up to the usual Hasegawa quality, they really failed in its execution. One of the most recognizable features of the SBD is its perforated dive brakes, and for some reason Hasegawa chose to not open those perforations, leaving a definitely un SBD looking model. The modeler could drill out the holes (several hundred, I reckon), but at the price point of this kit, that is unacceptable. IIRC at some later date they reissued the kit with photoetched dive brakes (at CONSIDERABLE extra cost).

This is my 1st Hasagawa kit and I was a tad under-impressed. The molding and plastic work is top notch as is the detail molded into the fuselage and wings. HOWEVER, as someone else stated, their choosing to just dimple the dive break flaps instead of actually molding in the holes was a gross oversight on their part. You can (as I did) drill out the 308 holes with a 1/16 drill bit - but it is tedious work and you have to be extremely careful to keep the holes from digging each other out while you drill. You also have to be careful with the decals - they do adhere well and form well to the molded-in details on the parts.......but MAKE SURE the decal releases 100% freely from the paper or else you will tear it. Also, do NOT use Micro-Sol on the decals - it practically dissolves them into uselessness.

This is not a very good kit with numerous design flaws and fit issues. Luckily I have done several hasegawa kits previously and didn't let this one scare me off. This plane ended up in the trash can. If you want an SBD please consider the revell kit, while not as detailed it does build up nice.