Reviews : Revell-Monogram B-25J Mitchell Bomber Plane
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Magnificent Mitchell
By: Jeff
This is the second B-25 in 1/48 I have built in the past 6 months, both of them being the Revell/Monogram kits. This glass nosed bomber version went together very nicely. Putty does't scare me and a bit was needed to make a seamless fuselage joint and again where the tail unit joins to the fuselage.
Care must be taken when attaching the multitude of clear pieces as there are plenty of opportunities to mess up the canopies if too much adhesive is used. Clear canopy glue of any manufacturer reduces the risk of oozing glue.
The bomb bay is snug so care must be taken to trim all pieces properly to ensure they all fit inside the small bomb bay.
As mentioned elsewhere weight must be added as this, like nearly all nose wheel aircraft is tail heavy. Don't fret as there is room in the bombardiers crawlway and also between the engine and the firewall where plenty of weight can be secured to have this model sit on it's weighted wheels.
As with most bigger models a lot of the small detail work of interior pieces will not be visible once the fuselage is joined together. Very little of the interior of the rear fuselage is to be seen so you could very easily not take the time to do up the ammo bins etc and no-one would notice. You would be better off taking the time to do a bang up jib on the bombay as the bulkheads and the bombs are plainly visible if you leave the doors open.
The B-25J was a very popular aircraft and as such there is a large number of after market pieces and decals that are available allowing one to have a custom built aircraft that will truly stand out in a crowd of Mitchells.
I would highly recommend this model to anyone who is looking to increase the size of their medium bomber air force.
Cheers,
Jeff
Paint much green anyone?
Ill start off by saying if you're going to build the Jaunty Jo version and you have an airbrush - do yourself a HUGE favor and before you start cutting anything from the sprues, airbrush the entire sprues olive drab. Spray everything olive drab unless it looks like a gun or is clear. It'll save you SOOOOO much time hand painting all the OD, which is about 90% of the parts.
When you get to the wings to glue them on - use EPOXY! Don't try to CA or cement them on. By the time your almost done with the build and you've carefully turned the model from upside down to right side up and back again quite a few times, it's likely one wing can come off if you don't epoxy them on.
When you get to the nose - the 4 guns that get glued into place and then poked through the 4 little holes, make SURE they are glued well! If not, you'll slide that nose piece on and one will come loose, making an already tedious task of gluing the clear nose parts together even harder. I cannot emphasize enough how important it is to really take your time when gluing together the nose section to get it right. Trust me it can assemble together flawlessly if you are patient and really dry fit as you go along. It'll prevent many of the issues people write about this part of the build.
Other than that, another great kit, wish the panel lines weren't raised. Also, take your time detailing the cockpit - it WILL be visible. Definitely a tail sitter but I fixed that by super gluing fishing weights into every place not going to be seen possible in the nose of the plane. A great build! I recommend it but just pay attention to the minor details on this one. It will be rewarding!
Enjoyable build
By: dillingersatchel
I built three of these for a Catch-22 diorama. I hadn't built a plastic model since the early 70's, so I did some reading of other's reviews both here and on forums around the net. The two most important things I picked up from those reviews were to use body filler around the wing to fuselage joints and also the top and bottom fuselage joints and to glue the windows in place with white glue instead of plastic cement. First, don't let the body filler thing throw you. It's really easy to sand and it makes the model look that much more real. Second, the white glue idea is excellent! I always hated the way windows came out when I used model cement way back when. Also, I used automotive pinstriping tape on the clear plastic instead of a mask. I painted it with the same green and brown I used on the rest of the plane and it worked excellent. Revell really loads this kit with lots of inside parts. I didn't quite get that since you can't see much of the inside outside of the cockpit and bomber positions so I didn't bother adding those items. And..AND..as I see others have stated, you DO have to add lots of weight to the front of the model to get it to stand on the nose wheel. I put the weights in the crawl space under the pilot's and also behind the pilots. All in all, it's a SWEET looking model if you put a little effort forward. Really, do the white glue and pinstriping thing to keep your aggravation level to a minimum :) The pinstripe size is 1/16 by the way.
PBJ1-J US Navy Mitchell
By: abbattior199091
I got tired of having a bunch of olive drab bombers in my collection so I decided to build a Naval version of the best known medium bomber in a US Navy tri-color scheme. I used ANA 611 Interior Green for most of the interior and bomb bay areas. The wings fit snugly onto the spars and they fit flush against the fuselage so I decided not to permanently attach them until after painting was complete since this made painting the inboard areas between the nacelles and the fuselage easier. As previous reviewers have noted there is a fair amount of interior detail to install and most of it won't be visible after assembly so it is up to you, the model builder to decide if you want to detail paint it or even leave it out altogether. The engine nacelles will require some plastic shims and filler to make the fit acceptable. The horizontal stabilizer was glued on so I could fill a small gap around the tail gunner's canopy and I added the vertical stabilizers after painting. I added weight to the nose in the forward landing gear bay, bombardier's tunnel and the forward part of the nacelles and my model sits squarely on its gear. If Revell could change this kit to have recessed panel lines and fix the fit issues I've noted, it would probably outsell many of the newer kits on the market.
Could Use Some Improvement
This was the first plane I have built in a very long time. I do have to say I was a little disappointed. I gave it an Average rating because it can be made into a good looking build, IF you have the skills and are willing to correct the flaws in the molding. There is some good detail on the kit but I believe that was outweighed by the in how the parts fit together and the part numbering on the sprues. I would recommend the builder have plenty of putty to fill in the gaps and a good file on hand for getting rid of the flashing and reshaping the parts to make them fit correctly. There is an excellent video of a complete build and review on YouTube. I highly encourage any builder to watch this video before beginning so as to be aware of the upcoming issues and be better prepared for correcting them. I gave a Yes on recommending this item due to the same thing I said above about my overall Average rating - it can be made into a good looking plane if you are willing to put in the extra effort.
Another Fine Revell Kit
By: mirecyli
WWII aircraft excite me and have since my teens. Now retired and time to model, I am going overboard with the number of them and my wife says I need to get a room. True, I am running out of space for display but what a joy to model these great planes. I have seen six of this plane in action at airshows and I love to hear them all fire up. And what other hobby can one have and spend so small an amount of money to get so much back in return? This is another good return for your buck for Revell kits are fun to build and have decent detail. Depending on ones skill level one can produce a model that shows well. I have built several models that are tail heavy and require weight in the nose to balance. I use lead fishing weights which can be hidden and glued in place without any rattling. I do not always model by the versions available but change the paint scheme or combine decals to suit me. This was one of those times if one looks at my photos.
typical revell /monogram value
By: bkatz4
as an experienced modeler since the 60's, and being out of the loop for a long time, building this kit reminded me of the relative bargain the revell/monogram kits represent. i remember the level of detail you could count on. i built mostly cars back then, but i am astonished by the quality and detail offered by these aircraft kits. i believe you get out of a model what you put into it. some folks may substitute aftermarket parts for extreme realism, and that's part of what they put in, but i love to maximize what a kit offers out of the box, and this kit with some paint detailing and simple bodywork, was a jewel. inexperienced budding modelers can easily get a model to be proud of and learn skills as they assemble this kit as offered. i highly recomend it to anyone who loves the subject, and wants a little challenge. i had a ball the whole time. it made me aquire several other revell aircraft kits, which have not disappointed.
Great bomber for the price
This kit is as usual a great value from Revel. This is the clear nose version so expect to spend most of your time masking and painting clear parts. the trick of dipping them in Future Floor polish will create a cleaner part. I use formula 560 to then attach clear pieces. Formula 560 doesn't attack the clear part or the finish. The detail is very nice especially in the interior of the model.Its a shame to cover the detail when you complete the fuselage. You can always buy another one and cut View Ports in one side. A full bomb bay is supplied and you can display the model with the doors open or closed. There are minor gaps in the fuselage halves but nothing critical.Two decal sets are supplied.One is from the 398th Bomb Squadron in New Guinea 1945 and the other is the12th Air Force in Corsica 1944. Go out and get this kit. Its a required addition to you're WWII bomber collection
Patience Needed
I have built this model twice in the past. The first effort was a disaster and I disliked the kit. The second time I took my time, remembered the issues (like fitting the machine guns properly in the nose canopy) and was very happy with the result. Attention to detail (the right parts for the right version) and determining which version you want to build before you start eliminates frustration later. Also, I weighed down the nose but she still drug her tail so grab a piece of clear sprue, hide it toward the back of the bomb bay doors and you are good. Lastly, the bombs, despite a lot of effort, can come loose and mess up your efforts on a great bomb bay. Make sure they are connect well because fixing this later is a pain. So, take your time, clean off the flash, dry fit, have FUN, and I think you will like the end result. For the price, I did.
Great model
By: qxsp70
I have built two of these, once as a little kid and once as an adult.
The kit goes together quite well with the exception of the nose. Being that the glass sections and the bottom part of the nose are three separate pieces and are separate from the main fuselage it can be quite tricky. Also the fit between the completed nose section and the main part of the aircraft leave something to be desired. On both of the kits there was a large...size difference for lack of a better term where the completed nose was skinnier then the fuselage. It can be fixed but it required some work.
On the positive side everything else went together like a charm. The fact that the kit includes a few figures is great addition and the decals are very usable. All in all I would recommend this kit to anyone. It would make a great starter or quick build.
Unexpected fun from a car guy...
By: Dave (Indiana)
First airplane model ever built but must say it was an excellent model (Revell knows what they are doing, always have). I'm a car/truck builder for many decades until a family member thought it was a good idea to purchase this model for a 10 y/o because his name is Mitchell, then give it to the only model builder in the family to complete. At least I can say I've experienced the military model build scene for a moment. Truly a good model, very well thought out and created. Provided quite the challenge air brushing two colors without masking. As others mention, the weight of the tail section will tip the plane back if you don't use the aft door with step stool to keep all 3 wheels on the ground; think about this before you get too far in the build. I had to create a stand for mine to sit right. fun build...
good kit
By: masterchief191
I have built many Revell models and have not really been impressed by any of them. This is one exception, however, it may be just due to the fact i love the Mitchell. This model is not too detailed but it is a fair value for the price and simple/easy (Also has another decal set for an alternate paint scheme).
I have stated in other reviews about Revell models that they are brittle and break easily but this one is stronger. The plastic can handle a bit of abuse (i say that because stuff happens...falls off the desk, gets hit, something like that) and wont break. The props (which normally are super weak from Revell) are pretty sturdy. Oh, make sure the tails are glued on nicely.
Overall this is a good model, i recommend it.
The Bomber B-25 by Revell by Monogram of USA.
By: orangeslice1211
I have built this model and its really not that good. Revell usually has great models but that was 25 years ago where back then we had models that were built by American workers and they had pride in their work and never left parts out.
I have a Model of a Carrier that when built the hull doesn't really fit the deck. The problem is that since the company is in Germany and it's an American company they don't take pride in the inspection of ALL parts.
I have built models from the '60s where the model goes together great and it is a beautiful work of art but NOW I will only buy models that were built in the 60s and early 70s. The B-25 that I bought in 1966 went together good and it was painted to the exact colors of the Box.
An average kit giving average results
Let me 1st say this is an easy kit to build; the parts fit is good, although for a high quality finish it's going to take some putty to eliminate the seams in the fuselage. The instructions aren't the greatest and I found myself straying from them often while assembling. You definitely need to install the top gun turret, locking down the unit with piece #76 before assembling the fuselage halves together. I thought the decals were great, they did not tear any and adhered to body curves well - they may be a bit thick, but hard to argue with the outcome. If you are wanting an easy-to-build kit that will give you average to good results, this kit is for you. If you are looking for a show-quality kit, look elsewhere.
its what you pay for
By: troy.seaman
This kit was terrible as far as the directions go. The wings, engines and cocpit went together easilly and fit was pretty good in that respect. Once i got the main work done on it though and tried to put the fusalige halves together, thats when it went into the toilet. this thing does not line up at all!! i actually had to put it away for a week so that i wouldnt try to throw it in the trash. I am going to have to do some serious filling and sanding once I start work back on it again. The sad thing is, when i dry fit the thing together, it went really well and there were no visibal seams or missalignments. oh well, live and learn and adapt.
Decent kit, great subject
By: CJ (Colorado)
Overall, this is a good model considering the age of the mold. It does take some work to get it looking fantastic, and I wouldn't recommend it for a new modeler. There's not a ton of options for the build, just a gear down A/B model. I chose the A style green and grey. It turned out pretty well, although I had to do a lot of extra work to get it into a gear up configuration. The worst fit issues were with the clear plastic canopy/glass fixtures, which are harder to address. It was a fun build and my first experience with an airbrush. I would recommend it, with caveats for the limitations of the kit based on age.
Pretty good model
This is a fairly good model to build, but not for a 10 year old, or skill level 2. You should have some good modeling skills to make this look good. I decided to do the B which is all silver. Had a bit of fine tuning to do to this B-25 and the bottom of the nose piece, not the clear canopy part,was a bit tricky. I had to take out the machine gun guys front seat, after it was glued, and trim away about 1/3 of the bottom of the seat as the bottom nose piece was hitting on it and I couldn't get it to go on properly. Overall, it went together quite nice. Very time consuming if you want a spectacular model! Bob Brown
A nice kit but you have to work for it.
This kit had a few issues. There is excessive flash (up to 3/16) but once trimmed the parts fit well. I like that the instructions list each piece and tells you what that part is on the airplane. But while the instructions list what Revell paint numbers are used, not all the paint colors have a corresponding color code in the assembly detail. That left me to guess what colors to use on certain parts. Another issue is that while the assembly instructions show where pieces are to be placed in one step, they are not visible in the next step. Overall, crappy instructions but a nice finished piece.
very nice kit
By: jctoymaker
building Revell aircraft models since mid 1950's, and just starting again in retirement, I can say that this is the best aircraft kit I have ever seen from Revell. excellently detailed, and a fit that is way above Revell's older other kits, they also do a kindness of sorts by providing two clear parts each for the cockpit and noses clear parts, to have two tries at painting it right. (I have been unable to find striping tape thin enough (1/ 64 in.) to use, let alone paint as the previous reviewer did. The usual seams needed some filer, but not too much. All in all, I very fun kit to build.
My first kit in three decades and it couldn’t have been a better choice
B-25J Mitchell (custom Panchito decals)
A good mix of well-fitting parts and a degree of difficulty to challenge. I had to source the lead for nose-weight to balance the kit which would have been good to know. It held up the build by about a week. I had some trouble with paint as I didn’t initially want to use a brush. In the end I used a combination of spray and brush. I have started airbrushing so the next attempt should be better looking in the end. I will buy this kit again.
Easy Kit
By: Hulksmasher123
This kit is easy to build. The parts were fairly large and required little sanding when cemented together. Surprisingly, this kit doesn't NEED shading to look well. You can tell this by priming the plane and seeing how it looks. If the shadows on it look good, then it doesn't need shading. That is the case here. The decals can be better, but are nice. Decal setter and softener isn't required since the plane itself doesn't curve too much, but it won't hurt to use them.
Really fun model
By: ryanroderick33
I really enjoyed this model I'm new to models and I have to say mine came out pretty nice. I really liked the detail and I liked the decals. The only thing I had a problem with was the weight mine was backheavy, and did not sit up straight I will have to fix it with a little putty, but don't let this stop you from buying this model I think it was the way I built it but I don't know but still buy this model it was fun and worth it.
Really Like This Kit
I really enjoyed making this model even though some of the instructions were difficult to follow. Specifically I had problems with the upper turret and the nose cockpit. The model is very tail heavy. I used about 2 ounces of lead in the nose to get it off its tail. Did not have any problems with the piece fittings. Other than the two problems listed, I like this model a lot and recommend it highly.
Very nice and easy kit
By: TheYoungModeler
I picked this model up because I wanted to add a B-25 to my collection of aircraft models on opening it was the standard revell kits the instructions were very good and understandable it went together nice a few snags on the wings but nothing to big I also liked how they give you the chose between 2 decal choices which was nice other then that I would totally recommend this kit to any Beginner+ modeler
Monogram/Revell B25 J
I inherited mine from my brother who is downsizing his collection. My gain to his loss. There are a lot of extras in the instruction booklet. Due to the size of the kit I intend to follow some of the hint made in other reviews relative to pre-painting the sprues, extra weight in the nose and the use of epoxy for the wings. I have not started it yet, but I believe it will turn out as a nice build.
Fun Bomber Build
By: rsharpelaw
This is an excellent starter bomber kit for the price. A great build with a hefty size - especially for a 1/48. 14x16 inches!
It has two versions, one of which is neutral grey - U.S. olive drab (Vallejo 70.992 and 70.887) as well as an aluminum version.
Much of the interior is not visible, but you can certainly complete these areas to improve your craft.
I hope this helps.
Have Fun!
Oh boy
By: kal.gubics
Fuselage fit needed putty. Typical flash. Instructions poor, had to re read a lot. Gaps on engine to wings, more putty. Need patience and trimming for wings to fuselage fit! Starboard wing especially tough. Sorry numbers all mixed up, spent time searching for parts. I'm an intermediate modeler so I had some problems. With patience I was fairly pleased with the finish.
Pretty good
By: Ragajester
A nice model. Very cool decals and paint job. Only problem was that items inside the fuselage did not stay in very well and the two fuselage halves did not come together cleanly. I had to do quite a bit of sanding, cutting and gluing to get it to fit right. Even through all of that the top ball turret did not go in well ( Sigh). Other than that though it is a great model!
Very fun kit
By: travis.getz
I found this kit a blast to build. The thing really bristles with guns when you're done. Note that I had to add some additional weight in the front to keep it on the nose wheel (as opposed to sitting on its tail). It is a great complement to other aircraft in this scale and there are many decal options available for the kit. Great price for a fun build.
Awsome build
By: Tbob72
I didn't start this build, I inherited it. I got it when my nephew gave up on it, said it was too hard for him. I can kind of see why, it had a lot of fid issues that would present problems for a beginner, but not at all for a experienced modeler. I had a lot of fun building it and will another one soon. Revell hit a home run with this kit.
A very good version of the Mitchell bomber
By: tonydpowell
Excellent model and a fun build. All the parts were good and just had to be patient and pay attention to the wings and engine. The wheels and canopy fit well. It was stressful, or frustrating. And the decal on the top of the wings is terrific. The biggest pro is that you can build it as a bomber or as a attack/bomber by adding guns.
Pretty good
By: brett.brooks
I just finished this one, and I am pretty impressed. The detail was good and the pieces fit together well. The only issue I had was with the underbelly ladder in the tail section. It didn't touch the ground all the way even after extensive modifications to try and make it fit. Over all though,it's a pretty solid kit.
Nice Model But Not for a Beginner
By: embassy00
I built this with my grandson and while he helped in some areas, there are some that were beyond his capability. This kit has a lot of nice detail but requires some finessing and pre-fitting of parts, and putty on the major seams. It is an old kit but with some effort and patience it builds into a nice model.
good product
By: illiniteach29
Overall, this is a pretty good product. However, there are issues with balance, as you will need to add weight to the nose to keep it from tilting up. There were also some issues with fit, particularly along windows. Instructions were pretty clear though, and like I said, overall it was pretty good.
Really Awesome
By: nchlscrlsn
The b-25 was awesome to build, and to show off once I was finished. There were some issues that I ran into, but it was because of the sub-par glue that I was using. But still it was an Awesome build, and I love the to variants, the one that I built was the Fineto Benito version.
Decent base kit
By: thebluenote2039
This kit offers a decent base for a B25J. Although, as I've seen with many of the older Revell kits, fit is not the greatest and details are somewhat lacking, after including photo-etch and your own modifications to details, this kit can still turn out looking great in the end.
B-25
By: Al (Mahopac. NY)
This replica seemed to come to life after I finished making it. I chose to paint it entirely in olive drab for more of a WWII effect. An easy build and parts actually fit well. I also chose to have it in a landed position rather than hang it from the ceiling.
Anti Shipping Version
I built this model several years ago and for an older kit it was well detailed and held up to age. The parts went together with no problems and the final detailing was to incorporate the Navy and Marine Corps camouflage scheme that was used the Pacific theater.
decent starter kit
By: jeby64
great starter kit, but nothing you want if you are looking to make something stand out. pieces fit together okay, lots of gaps in places. not many details other than the basic stuff. for not much more you can get the b-17 by revell which I do recommend.
Mitchell B25J
By: Tom
Very Nice Model A Couple of Gaps that needed to be filled in as expected Wings to Fuselage, Stabalizer Wing's to Fuselage, Rudder to Stabalizer, All Minor nothing, serious. All in all a Very enjoyable Model to build Level 2 Model, 7-Steps to assemble,
I LIKE this kit
By: JONATHANWPAGE
The top turret is tricky goes in from the top, but the fastener goes in from the bottom with tweezers. on some kits the fusalage locating pins are to long not always. I've built 4, will build more. The model is as adsaptable as the original
I dont know how many times I built this kit!
I don't know how many times I built this kit! I cannot count, however, I am building yet another one. This is an easy to build and decent kit. I am going to put the extra wok into it this time to make it more detailed. More to come!
Good build
I really enjoyed building this model. The peaches went together real easy. The only bad thing was the canopy. I had to put mine in hot water, then do some bending. But all in all, I really enjoyed putting this model together.
B-25
By: con-60
I love this model. I have no bad comments about it upon airbrushing it, it came out beautiful. It was extremely fun when putting it togther. I would recommend this to anyone and if you plan on airbrushing practice first.
5 Stars
By: 51c4r1u5d0m1nu5
Loved building this, went together well, enough detail to keep you on your toes and interested throughout the entire build and the end result is quite nice with all the guns and decals making it fully look the part.
Great build
This is the first plane I have built. Overall it was extremely enjoyable and with the help of other reviews it went together well. I definitely recommend this kit and will be doing similar ones in the future.
Earned me a great grade!
By: jspeer1130
I built this kit my freshman year in college for an introduction to Aeronautics class. The pieces all fit together perfectly and the level of detail inside and out cannot be surpassed!
Mitchell Bomber 1/48
By: dhenkhaus72863
This model by fare is the best Revell kit I have built. Clean lines and great detail. Total shame all the great interior detail can not be seen once assembled.
B-25J
Just received this one yesterday, Very nice detailing, and moulding. Nice decal sheet. I have no misgivings about this kit. It will build into a nice model.
leaving the factory for the front
By: gryrttr
very nice kit painted with model master paint no problems found decals again nice wanted to built a nice clean out of the factory finish not yet to combat
good plane with few problems
Its a pretty good plane but its a tail sitter, meaning if you dont put weights in the nose it will aqwardly sit on the tail and rear landing gear
Nice model!
This kit I am currently working on. It has some minor fit issues, but nothing that cannot be fixed. Looks great, historically accurate as well!
Good model
By: jusago531
Built into a nice B-25. Raised detail. Went together easy with clear instructions. Need weight for nose or its a tail sitter.
Everything ok
By: drmunafo
Perfect product. Shipping as written in the web site. Product arrived without any problem or damage. very nice to build.
Amazing model
By: Legolaneo
I like how easy the model was yet challenging revell needs to do more like this more detail on the inside
easy!
By: guardian533
This is a nice easy plane to start off modeling with, and if you do it right, it looks great!
B25J Mitchell Bomber
Great kit, some parts need some work to fit right but overall it is good to go..
J.F.G.#6
Great interiro detail.
An enjoyable build that looks great when completed. Interior detail is a a great feature.
difficult
By: nickdavid09
the model is good it just had some areas in the instructions that can be hard to follow
B25J Bomber
This build was excellent, no complaints at all was perfect cant wait to post pictures.
b25
Great model i got it all done and i have all the B series lined up next to each other.
B25J Mitchell Bomber
By: rduchaney
great product for the cost - a super deal. always look forward to your models.
more details
Go for someone starting out wish there was more details and options