This model was given to me as a gift from my grandfather, but it was already build. I recently painted it and it turned out very good. The engine piece on the back was missing so I rolled up a black piece of paper and cut it into an engine. I can’t tell that it is paper unless I look very closely at it. I especially liked the pilot detail in the cockpit. This is a very large product, make sure you have somewhere to put it before buying.

I want to start off by saying this is my first 1/32 scale aircraft kit and not only am I impressed with the kit but I am now hooked on larger scale kits. It should be no surprise but Tamiya really did a superb job with this kit. Everything from the tooling, details, decals, operating features and quality is top-notch. To start off, the fitting of the parts was probably the best I have seen on any kit that I have done. (I would estimate that I've built around 100-150 models). There were no major seam line issues or sanding required. The only place that required a little bit of putty was on the ordinance. Another great feature was that there was very little to no excess flashing that needed removed. Kit detail was excellent. The entire engine system from the inlet to the afterburner is part of the kit. The engine itself is like a small kit that once built can be removed and installed into the completed aircraft. Other operating features of the model include: removable ordinance, operating canopy, removable ejection seat and opening nose cone. Also included are metal landing gear, canopy masks, rubber tires, photo-etch parts and markings for three aircraft. Overall, I would highly recommend this kit to anyone who has some modelling experience and is looking for a challenge.

If you have not tried a 1/32 scale kit, you're missing out. Tamiya offers some of the best on the market, and this Viper kit is a shining jewel in the crown. I really like this kits versatility. You can build it straight from the box into a beautiful model, or add a ton of aftermarket goodies from Hobblylinc.com. If you're on the fence about 1/32 scale, make the leap and get one of these!