F-14 in 1/72nd scale

The Fine Molds kit is without a doubt superb. I'm not sure if has weapons.

So do you want a good, accurate kit or one that comes with the weapons and fuel tanks?   For accuracy go with the Hasegawa (newer release not the 1970's one).   For weapons either add the Hasegawa weapons sets or buy a less accurate kit that comes with weapons (Fujimi , Academy, Italeri, etc).

I'd rate the Fujimi kit a close second behind the Hasegawa kit. Both stand head and shoulders above the next nearest.

The Hasegawa kit is a little more detailed, perhaps a little more accurate, but as mentioned, lacks weapons. It includes PE instrument panels where the Fujimi kit doesn't (it did include PE canopy arches).

The Fujimi kit (which is about to be reboxed by KA Models, who have added PE including pre-colored instrument panels) has weps and separate engines. Both feature separate flaps and slats and can be built with the nose gear compressed in take-off position.  

Thanks for your comment.

I was looking at the Hasegawa kit, but was hoping there was a kit of that quality with the weapons load.

Thanks again.

I have built several F-14's A's and D's both in 1/72 and 1/48, Hasegawa, Revell, Hobby Boss  and Hasegawa is the best in details. Hobby Boss in the 1/72 scale  version is pretty nice and has a full weapons load but would recommend an Eduard PE set to dress up the pit.

Another VERY nice 1/72 Cat is the old Revell # 6866 released in 2002 and the re box version done by ROG in 2008 as # 4932. They are cheaper than Hasegawa and pack really nice details specially in the pit with crisp molded details. All weapons and excellent decals are also provided. You can find them at shows or on eBay:

www.scalemates.com/.../111412-revell-04195-f-14d-super-tomcat

www.scalemates.com/.../146649-revell-6866-f-14d-super-tomcat

Here is the Revell in 1/72 with some Hasegawa weapons. The kit brings the usual Sidewinder, Phoenix and Sparrow load but here I used some JDams and Lantirn Pod to change the flavor a bit.

Hope this info helps.

WHEW !  Another stunning build Ernie .  

I recently watched Top Gun again so now I'm inspired to build one of these. Maybe you can help me find one at the September show ?

Thanks JJ. Yep I will see ya there. Can't wait to attack the vendor tables.

Who doesn't love a pretty little tomcat like this.  =]  Thanks for sharing.

Again, thanks for all of the advice of kit selection.

I need to search out the different kits on Amazon, eBay, MegaHobby, etc.

Thanks again!