Italeri1319 1: 72 – Rafale M External Operations 2011

The Italeri plastic is softer and more flexible than Hasegawa or Revell, and it works with Tamiya Extra Thin cement. From the few Hasegawa models I built, the parts are made to only fit the correct way (L part doesn't fit R side, R part doesn't fit L side) and the instructions illustrations are usually ok. The Italeri instructions sometimes are a bit unclear re: what goes where and there isn't necessarily some groove or hole to guide you where a part goes. I think the instructions forgot to mention you need to use a needle to make a small hole for the mid-air fuel intake part. Doesn't come with hole for display stand, but there seems to be a good location to drill and carve your own. Needs a weight in nose cone for balance.

I was unsure about this kit at first, but after the build im impressed. The fit and detail is good and it offers weapons ordnance and fuel tanks. Weight needs to be added to the nose if your building landing gear down. My only gripe is the plain jane decal options and paint scheme.....overall recommended

Built it out of the box. Decals were acceptable.