The 2003 release of this 1/48th Revell Hs129-B is actually a re-release of Hasegawa's 1999 kit. For model makers this was a real bonus, as we ended up with a Hasegawa (great) fit and a Revell (lower) price tag.
Notable Kit Features:
Decently detailed cockpit
Good parts fit
Finely scribed recessed panel lines
Pretty basic construction
Decent single piece engine molds
Weighted tires
Mk.101 & Mk.103 cannon armament provided
Very clear cockpit glass
Build Inspiration:
The ground attack specialist aircraft never seem to get enough attention with all the accolades going to the fighter types. Here we have a WWII Luftwaffe example of a "Tank Buster". One of the most successful pilots of this type was Hauptmann Rudolf-Heinz Ruffer who flew with 8. Panzerjägerstaffel Schlachtgeschwader G.1 based out of Kuban Russia in early 1943.
Heads-Up Report:
Very little filler or sanding required on this build
Ailerons are best left off until towards the very end to avoid breakage
Thick decals (No Swastikas are contained in the Revell Germany kit)
Kit Additions / Modifications:
This kit was built Out-of-the-Box
Finishing:
The paint on this Hs129B is the standard early Luftwaffe scheme of RLM 70/71 (Dark Greens) over RLM65 (Light blue). RLM 4 (Yellow) was used on the underside wingtips and nose and RLM 23 (Red) on the propeller tips. All paint was weathered slightly. A panel line wash was also used to accentuate the joins and details. Dry brush smoke was added to the exhaust areas to simulate engine stains. The kit decals were alright however not flexible enough for the propeller spinner curves. (Probably better to use aftermarket.)
The After-Build Report:
This 1/48th Revell Hs129-B Panzerknacker kit is recommended for model makers of all skill levels. The build is straight-forward and the parts fit is quite good. You will have to be careful with the ailerons as these are separate and sit below the wing plane making them a bit easier to break off during or after the build process.
Feel free to comment or ask any questions - Keep on building, gain experience, challenge yourself if you like, but try not to stress yourself out over the build - it is supposed to be an enjoyable hobby after all - Cheers