Dauntless

I enjoyed this kit overall. There were some problems with fit, so you will have to modify the parts to come together properly. Also, the air brakes were a bit problematic at first, but once you get them fit together, they open and close together nicely. Extra figures can add more background story to the model if you want. Finally, directions were clear and concise.

The Monogram SBD was one of Monogram's early efforts of the late '60s, when operating features were the rage, details and accuracy were not as important as they are today, and plastic injection molding technology was in its infancy. These factors mean that this long in the tooth Dauntless is a great trip back in time, but not up to the standards of today. It assembles easily, and would make a good starter or second kit, and it looks like an SBD, and with a lot of effort, can be made into a nice model. If the builder wants a quick, easy SBD build but isn't too picky about details, this fits the bill... for anyone looking for an accurate scale model, look elsewhere.

I had no problems building this kit at all.The fit was execellent.I took my dremel tool and a small drill bit and drilled out all of the holes in the flaps and dive brakes.I added a little extera details to the cockpit using left over photo-etch parts from other kits. I was a little disappointed with the decal sheet.(content only not quality),I left out the old toy like bomb release and filled these holes with putty,and installed a different bomb.This kit with a little work produces a very good looking model.I of course especially like the price.You can see my completed model in the users gallery. I would recommend this kit.If you would like other decals or a different color scheme you will have to buy a aftermarket sheet,but you can still build this kit and add an aftermarket decal sheet for less than you will pay for most other kits of this aircraft.Finish on mine is Testors Model Master Paints,and weathering was done with pastels.