[HotTrap429]

FINALLY! My new B-26 and B-25 just came in today. I really love them both. Since a great review has already been done with the B-26, thought I'd do a quick review of the B-25.

First of all, the noted problems with the top turrent are valid. The turrent is too small even though it does turn and the guns elevate. The opening bomb bay doors are a great touch. On both leading wing edge is a landing light and you can even see the lens inside the cover - great touch! The panel lines are not deep and they are lightly inked giving the plane a "weathered" look. I did not like the paint job FoV did where the engine nacelles join the undersurface of the wings. There was a good amount of over-spray here due to some sloppy or non-existent masking. But the other markings are pretty good and the indian chief on the tale is superb. Yes, the guns are a rubberized plastic so they don't bend easily, but they have the indented exhaust holes molded in them and that really looks sharp. Landing gear fits easily and snuggly into the wheel wells. No large screw holes either. Overall, considering I paid $40.00 for this model, it is worth the money especially since Corgi B-25s go for as much as $75 to $99.

Oh yeah, BTW I took a few pictures of this model next to a Corgi B-25. I apologize, but I don't have Crabb 2nd. I used "Heavenly Body" instead. I like them both - I'm not even thinking about "bashing" my Corgi B-25s. Still, they did cost quite a bit more and they aren't excessively better than the less expensive FoV.

[STARMAN 352ND]

Thanks for the review Hot Trap....Is the nose gun's rubber too or plastic ?
JP

[HotTrap429]

All the guns are that "rubberized" plastic. They look good, but they tend to bounce back when you straighten them out. You have to carefully "over" correct and then they stay put.

[STARMAN 352ND]

HotTrap,
Thanks for the tip..
I looks really battle worn....I like it that way.It looks like they used a white wash on it...?
JP

[djjeffhall]

HotTrap429,
Thanks for the side by side pictures. Great shots!

[DADoser]

HotTrap429 (and/or anyone else who has BOTH models) -

Here's my question (since you have BOTH the FOV B-26 and B-25) -

If you were forced to choose only one - the B-26 or the B-25 - for your collection, which would you choose and why? (WITHOUT considering you already have a Corgi B-25.) All things considered - in your opinion - which of these new FOV bombers is THE better model? Why?

Thanks in advance for your opinion.

[Epapazian]

Originally Posted by DADoser

HotTrap429 (and/or anyone else who has BOTH models) -

Here's my question (since you have BOTH the FOV B-26 and B-25) -

If you were forced to choose only one - the B-26 or the B-25 - for your collection, which would you choose and why? (WITHOUT considering you already have a Corgi B-25.) All things considered - in your opinion - which of these new FOV bombers is THE better model? Why?

Thanks in advance for your opinion.

I would say that both FOV models are reasonably good diecast renditions. Both have problems, of course. On my B-26, the tail doesn't sit neatly on the fuselage, leaving a small gap and even though the tail gunner's canopy doesn't look as bad as it does in some of the pictures posted on the forum, it's a weak point. On the other hand, the dorsal turret on the B-25J is clearly too small. Both models have overspray issues on their undersides, but this is more evident on the B-25. So, if I had to pick only one of these as a "keeper", I guess I'd vote for the B-26, but it's a close call and I am pleased to have both in my collection.

[HotTrap429]

I'd get the B-26 only because no one else makes one. If I'm choosing based on quality (like I want to buy only the best one), then it's a draw. Both have something that isn't quite correct, yet they are very good models for the price.

[ZS-VAN]

Great review and comparative pics! I think the Corgi B25 may have the edge for me but if I can find these two FOV bombers here I'm likely to get both although if I had to settle for one it would be the B26. Price will tell.

[DADoser]

FINALLY picked up one of the FOV mediums this weekend at my local shop.

Shop (Monkey Depot) had both the B-25 and B-26 in stock. My budget only allowed me to walk out with one model. I went in thinking I would pick up the B-25. However....after looking at both models - in person - I had to take a little time to rethink my original intent. After several minutes, I DID leave with the B-25.

After opening it up. NO COMPLAINTS/ISSUES. Sure there a some little things that have been noted in previous posts/reviews - however, for my tastes/standards/budget, I can find no fault in FOV's execution of their B-25. [Since I was able to pick out the model in the shop, I was able to look them over pretty closely and found one with very straight guns.]

Highlights for me on this model are simply the paint scheme and history. Love the full nose art as well as the tail insignia. VERY well done. Also: B-25 with full nose armamnet .50s/Pacific Theater.....how can you go wrong?

I'm just really impressed with FOV and the direction/execution they have taken with their latest 1/72 scale aircraft - Zero; P-40; B-25; B-26. I just think as far as product(execution, accuracy, detail) per value ratio - Its hard to beat current FOV releases. Very easy on the wallet for what you get (compared to equivalent product from the other big manufacturers) - IMO.

I'm VERY happy with my FOV B-25 and highly recommend the model to my peers.

(I may just have to try and "find" some extra cash and add the B-26 as well!)