The good: Finishes up nicely Tall model (No ruler handy, but I'd say it's 16-18'' tall) Simple instructions The bad: No decal instructions (Internet doesn't really help either) Booster halves don't line up that great Vostok capsule halves don't fit that well either Booster and main body fit problems Some parts arrived off the sprue trees, and as a result, the Sputnik chrome part had a scratch in it (not that it matters as I've built it as Vostok) Have to modify the body if you build it as a display model Fair amount of flash (easily removed) Overall, I'd say this is good value, since it is fairly cheap at only $25, and the problems are not too major. I would recommend this if you have some model building experience. Be patient and this will turn out nicely.

If I remember correctly, when this kit was first released back in the early seventies, it could be built as a flying model. I don't know why anyone would have done that, and I built it as a static model. That build-up is long gone, so now I get a second chance at the pleasure of building this iconic Space Age rocket. As other reviewers have noted, the seaming on the boosters is a bit off, but with a good cyanoacrylate technique, this should be a minor issue. Exceptional detailing of engine parts sets this apart from the otherwise excellent Airfix kit.

Even though this model has a few fitting issues, it seems very detailed and once completed and painted provides a very impressive and tall model. The instructions do lack in a few spots, but overall it is a very nice model to show man's first space flight (Russian). I used this model as an overall vehicle next to a larger model of just the Vostock capsule and capsule stage. They pair nice together.