What a Beech-craft this was...

This was Battle Axe's limited run Beechcraft 18 plastic injection molded kit. With clear vac parts. I was not prepared for this kit at all. Thought it looked like a fairly quick and easy build to do while I waited on extras for the SB2C. Well, I shoulda read Tony Darienzo's review before I started. Tony recomended this kit. I would do the same with one very strong caveat. This kit is a challenge and requires a significant investment of preparation, patience, and fortitude. All of which I did not have considering I've got that started SB2C Helldiver on the side of the workbench saying, "Build Me, Build Me, Build Me!".

As I have come to understand first hand with limited run kits, not everything fits very well. I know we complain about Monogram and Revell's raised panel lines, but at least their stuff fits. Just to give you an idea. The circumference of the engines was greater than the cirumference of the assembled cowlings that housed them. A lotta putty went there. This plane required more putty and sanding than any other 5 planes I've put together. And it's pretty evident I didn't do enough. A friend I talked to at work who sold his Beechcraft a while ago and now owns a Cessna jokingly said, "That sounds about right for a Beechcraft".

Anyhoo... Here are some pics. I did the US Navy JRB4 version since I'm only working on blue planes this year. Getting my $$$'s worth in the paint department avoiding all of those paint transfers that's for sure. Other available versions were a Natural Metal coloured French Navy version, and a Natural Metal colored USAAF UC-45 Expediter version. Very little weathering. My understanding is that most of these smaller transport crafts were pretty well kept and really didn't encounter inclimate weather or less than ideal situations since they were used mainly for VIPs. No close ups here.


Was pleased with my antennae lines on the underside. The soft plastic was nice to work with when making holes and shaping. Required a lot of buffing with polishing abrasive cloths in 8000+ grit range though to get the scratch marks out.