Academy Models P-47D Thunderbolt - Part I

Time for another first for me - this Thunderbolt is my very first model from Academy Models. I was aware of the company already in my teens, but for some reason I always thought that it was a second tier company. It's a good thing that I finally decided to grab a couple of their models, because the impression of this kit straight out of the box is very positive.

When comparing this kit with what I am used to get from Airfix, even their latest offerings, two words come to mind - delicate and basic. Individual components are beautifully moulded, with very nice recessed panel lines. Cockpit, instrument panel and wheels can best be described as functional, but not entirely deprived of detail. Construction process seems very traditional and straight-forward - based on initial impressions it could be a very nice beginner kit. I also appreciate the inclusion of a very nice selection of armament and external fuel tanks.

If a weak spot is to be pointed based only on initial inspection, then it's this kit's engine. Real world 'Jugs', as P-47s were called, were famous for their huge rotary engines. The engine included in this kit is surprisingly small, so much so that even I who normally am very insensitive to this sort of discrepancies raised an eyebrow in bewilderment.