Like most of us, I look forward to reading the kit reviews in each edition of FSM. And, like most of us, I've been shocked at the MSRP that some manufacturers are asking for their kits (glad I dont build 1/350 warships !) But I've come to accept that some stuff I can afford, and some stuff I cant. Like most of us, theres a line in the sand I wont cross when it comes to price.
Now I dont expect a state-of-the-art kit, chock full of resin, PE, extensive decal sheets and colour reference material to be the same price as an old Monogram re-pop (no offence, Hans !) But couldnt the reviewer give their opinion as to whether they think the kit is value for money ? After all, they have the experience.
Admittedly, they arent paying for the model, and I dont know if they get to keep it after they submit their review ? But I would like to see in the "pros" and "cons" of the review, their opinion whether this kit IS good value for money, or, given the reviewers experience with the kit, that it is, in their opinion, overpriced.
Or, is this just going to scare off manufacturers from providing kits for the reviews. Do they have to be involved anyway ? Cant FSM just buy a kit off the shelf and give it to a reviewer ? Or do they rely on pre-release kits and the goodwill of the manufacturer ?
Sorry if I've been asking more questions than providing answers, but this has been bugging me ever since I saw the ad for those two IJA 1/35 trucks with a MSRP of more than eighty bucks apiece....... I hope there's a Rolex hidden inside the box somewhere...........
"Growing old is inevitable; growing up is optional"
" A hobby should pass the time - not fill it" -Norman Bates
