Spad XIII WW1 Fighter

I can't argue with the previous review on this model, but would like to elaborate on why the Revell Germany SPAD won't get an excellent rating. My model is stamped 1981, but I think that might be an re-issue. The parts had quite a bit of flash on them, and if you choose to do this kit, you better eliminate all of it to get proper fitting. If you are used to Tamiya or other modern kits, this is a time warp back to thinking on your feet and a lot of dry fitting prior to gluing. The cockpit isn't great, so leaving the pilot out wasn't really an option unless you can use your spares for parts. The threat to wire your kits works but easy-line would make it much easier (by the way, have a millimeter ruler unless you can convert easily). Any time you connect the top and bottom of a bi-plane you have to do a bit of praying (or wishful thinking) but on this kit you need to make sure the struts fit into the slots or I promise you'll have issues. So, with all these issue, why a good rating? I liked the challenge, the final product looks good, and I actually hand painted the camouflage which I have done in years and reminded me of my youth (which was a long time ago). I know Wing Nuts or Eduard has better kits on the market, but for the price, especially if you haven't done a bi-plane in years (or ever) this kit is very reasonably priced and can get you some experience before you drop some serious change on a newer kit. Have fun, take your time, dry fit everything, be prepared to improvise, and enjoy.

Disappointing...poorly molded, lots of flash = lots of cleaning and sanding. The three figures were particularly bad, requiring lots of body putty to fill gaps; feature details lousy. I found painting instructions for overall airplane camo to be vague. Very comprehensive decal set, but some were very, very difficult to put on (i.e., struts). I've come to expect more from Revell of Germany.