Released in 1994 this He 111H kit of Monogram's introduced recessed panel lines into their aircraft model production while keeping up their tradition of nicely appointed cockpits with raised detail for dials and switches. The model kit was still reasonably priced which made it an excellent value as well.
Notable Kit Features:
Recessed panel lines (and nicely done at that)
Crystal clear canopy parts
Option to build Standard, Blockbuster or Torpedo bomber version
Good details in front cockpit
Weighted tires provided
Nice overall detail but nothing extra
Build Inspiration:
The first movie that I ever saw in a commercial movie theater was "The Battle of Britain" ...need I say more? The Heinkel 111s were heavily featured in this film and this aircraft became synonymous with the battle just as much as the Hurricanes, Spitfires & 109s. I had built the rest of these subjects already, so now it was time to add this sinister aircraft to the collection. (BTW if you haven't seen the movie "The Battle of Britain" I would still highly recommend it. I haven't watched it in a few years however it still remains a Classic WWII war movie - albeit a little dated but worth the watch.)
Heads-Up Report:
Gaps at the bottom wing joins will require filler work
I had a fit issue with the standard bomb bay (but maybe that was just me) so I opted for the Blockbuster version to cover the gaps
Installation of the landing gear is a bit non-standard as you have to spread the gear doors apart to fit them, however it all worked out and the gear is stable when in place
I don't know if you noticed however there is a bit of glasswork here that requires masking off ...so you'll have to do that drill (precut masks are available). Monogram does provide decent framework to guide you at least.
There is very little interior detail aft of the cockpit bulkhead (which suited me fine as it really won't be seen anyway, once the kit is assembled, but just be forewarned or have at it for the details here if you want to do some scratch building)
The kit has been criticized for some shape issues however I did not check mine against realistic drawings and found it acceptable (sometimes the key to enjoyable model building is not to look too hard.)
Released again in 1995-96 by Revell, Pro Modeler and then again by Hasegawa in the late 90s and then again by Monogram in 2010
Kit Additions / Modifications:
Built out of the box in the ./KG 55 Fledermaus night intruder version operated from Deux France in 1941
End Result:
Finished off in the standard Kampfgeschwader colours of the time, consisting of RLM 70 / 71 upper surfaces. This Battle of Britain warrior had its undersides overpainted black, which extended partially up the fuselage sides as well. I am quite happy with the results of this build, despite any minor shortcomings, it looks good on the shelf and has a prominent display space.
After-Build Report: I would recommend this 1/48th scale Monogram kit if you can pick it up for a fair price, it builds into a nice model right out of the box. The newer ICM kit has now eclipsed this one with more detail, giving the model builder engines and separate control surfaces as an example, however it is more expensive so you'll have to weigh the advantages of each (if you can find a choice of kits).
Keep on building, gain experience, challenge yourself if you like, but try not to stress yourself out over the build - it is suppose to be an enjoyable hobby after all - Cheers
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