[HotTrap429]

Bought the Forces of Valor, 1/72 scale ME 262 today. I don't know if a review of this model has been done yet as it has been out awhile now. If someone has already reviewed this model and I'm stealing your thunder, I sincerely apologize.

Cost: At $12.99 you really can't go wrong. This is what my local hobby shop charges for a new EasyModel issue. $12.99 is not a bad price for a die cast model that has lots of metal and is very heavy.

Panel Lines: They are not too deep and there is not a wash. The lines are a little deeper than the lines on my Corgi Galland 262 but they don't overpower the model. I don't have a Dragon or IXO 262 so I can't compare them with each other.

Colors/Markings: The colors are well done. The pattern of dark green and brownish olive looks good and has feathered edges. The underside is light blue and includes RLM gray wheel wells. The top to bottom blending is well done on the fuselage and engine nacelles and includes a subtle "feathering" effect. I don't know if the orange-yellow bands are accurate. The tail markings are well done with just the right amount of feathering. Sadly, no swastika.

Model Accuracy: Dimensions are comparable to my Corgi 262. The overall shape is accurate based on my research materials. The landing gear struts are a bit long, but this isn't a big negative. The tires are rubber and have incredible detail. The open gun bay is a nice touch and the cover fits snugly and shows no gaps.

Issues/Negatives: The plane will tend to sit on its tail if you place it on a surface that isn't level. This version has only a gear down option. If you want the gear up, I recommend buying the "enthusiast" version. There are 2 screw holes on the bottom plus a fairly large hole for the stand. Since I display most of my models on the ground, I filled each hole with Squadron White Modeling Putty, sanded, and then repainted. The model is not as delicately executed as a Corgi, Dragon, or Hobby Master model would be. But for this price, I recommend this model.

I did a little sprucing up. As noted, the model does not include a swastika on the tail so I added one. I also used some silver to add some wear and tear to the walkways, gun doors, and the leading edges of the wings, nacelles and tail fins.

Here are some pictures. The first picture is the model straight out of the box. The others are the model after my customizing touches.

[flyXwire]

Great review, thanks. Hopefully we'll see the new scheme for the 262 and especially the P-40B "Flying Tiger" at TARGET soon.....

[ZS-VAN]

Cool review. I like this model having seen it a while back, pity about the fixed down gear. I've already got the Galland for that.

[flyXwire]

Originally Posted by ZS-VAN

Cool review. I like this model having seen it a while back, pity about the fixed down gear. I've already got the Galland for that.

FOV sells a special packaged version with the separate undercarts to hobby shops only. Frankly, I wouldn't pay extra for it as I'm very satisfied with the 'gear down' version as well.

[Airasair]

I also have the FOV Me 262 and I think its a cool model except for the fixed landing gear and lack of swastika.

[Cruver Collecter]

That Me 262 looks pretty good and a nice price too. Have to think about picking one up.

[tank nut]

They are not a bad looking plane, just wish they did not put screws into the wings that you have to fight with to get out when you get it home