Yeah, there were a few things I didn't like about it, compared to the Akira (Starcraft) and the Nebula (WARP).
Centaur
Cons:
- The details weren't as good as the other models. The windows were different sizes and were not aligned. It required filling a lot of them in and then rescribing them (which I got tired of after a while). The windows on the edge of the saucer I didn't like because they were just drilled in deep. Probably going to go back and fill thoes in as well.
- The sauser is inaccurate for the Centaur and even the Excelcior. There is terrecing which needs to be filed in and sanded smooth.
- The casting itself wasn't that good. I expect air bubbles and defects in any resin model (half the fun is in the repairs ), but there were air holes everywhere, especially on the nacelle attachments and the details under the saucer. Furthermore, there were deep groves along the entire length of the nacelles as well.
- The nacelle spars were not symmetrical, as one was straight and one had a curve. All attempts to reform them using boiling water and clamps failed, as they just kept bouncing back. [I gave up]
- Drilling the hole for the base was though, because there was no way to center it, the model kept rolling to one side. First one I drilled broke the two sections apart. Second one I drilled was off center, so I had to bend the stand to compensate. The model still doesn't sit straight, but I gave up on that A) there won't be much model left if I keep drilling it, B) I got other projects I need to get moving on and C) It looks like an action shot being off center (at least what is what I am trying to convince myself)
- It was a gift, so I decided to add it to my 1/1400 fleet. Though I don't care to much for the design either StevenQ. The blatant kitbashing was just silly.
I'm going to get the Saber next to see how that one is.
Pros:
- REALLY easy ship to put together. 4 parts, fit pretty good (not counting the massive clean-up required).
- Decals are also pretty nice.
- They got the scale right, in terms of what I have seen on the internet, so that is good.
- Its a good ship to try new techniques. (Though I put little effort into painting it.. i.e. not even a hint of paneling or aztecing. Not worth the hassle).
Once its done I hope to get pics up. The Sci-Fi forum needs more about Sci-fi models in my opinion!!
All in all I give the model a B. The Akira I would give an A- too and the Nebula (from what I can see), would be an A-/A.