[Cruver Collecter]

Mind you this is an observation based solely on Starman's photos of the Panther, but it does seem to compare well with the other 1/48th scale models. I only have one Carousel model, and that would be their P-40. My P-40 has a fairly evident seam wing root and wing mounting in general, which in essence compares similarly to the seam found on the HM model, so in this case no major differences between two quality wise with regards to unsightly seems. Also the Panther does at least allow for the canopy to be placed in the open position. If memory serves correct the EL P-51s also have a fairly pronounced seam with regards to wing mounting to the fuselage and remember earlier thread covering cowling seam or panel line on their AT-6 that looks to have been incorrect. From what I have seen so far, they all have similar short comings, but overall nice looking models. HM probably did try a little much by going with the folding wing, but most diecast models that have moving surfaces have similar issues. Overall, they do seem to compare fairly well.

[1250ships]

I may end up with a Panther but I'm going to wait to see what other schemes come out. Plus waiting might see some improvements in the product.

[stalag8611]

The manufacturers keep trying, but they don't get it right: FOLDING WINGS don't work on scale models. Dragon Wings produced a folding wings Corsair (FG-1D "Skipper's Orchid") and now Hobby Master with the F9F-2. From three feet away the Corsair looks good on a computer desk, but it doesn't pass muster when examined closely. Same comments seem to apply to the F9F-2. As for me, I can live without gadgets and geegaws.

[Elmer]

Originally Posted by Cruver Collecter

Mind you this is an observation based solely on Starman's photos of the Panther, but it does seem to compare well with the other 1/48th scale models.

Also... check out Pappy's pictures and Hawk's pictures. I think the wing fold line is more evident, possibly because the background isn't dark.

Originally Posted by Cruver Collecter

I only have one Carousel model, and that would be their P-40. My P-40 has a fairly evident seam wing root and wing mounting in general, which in essence compares similarly to the seam found on the HM model, so in this case no major differences between two quality wise with regards to unsightly seems.

Fit at the wing root is an issue for many, many models. The EI 'Stang, I think, is more pronounced than any of the C1 models or the other two HM 1:48 models. I have never noticed a gap on the C1 P-40. I will take a closer look at it tonight. Regarding the Panther model, the gap at the wing fold appears to me much more pronounced than any EI, C1, or HM 1:48 model I have, or have seen; but one must have the model sitting side by side with the others for a fair analysis of which model has the least best fit. But the wing fold is only partly the eyesore. Those hinges! Ouch. It makes the whole fold line look a terrible eyesore (to my eye). And the gap exists at a much different place on the wing than other models. So... comparing the wing gap on this Panther model to a wing root gap on a C1 model is a bit like comparing apples and oranges.

[aeroeng]

Originally Posted by 1250ships

I may end up with a Panther but I'm going to wait to see what other schemes come out. Plus waiting might see some improvements in the product.

I tend to agree. If they anounced they weren't going to make anymore, I'd buy one before they disappear. I'll wait for now and if my local Hobby Shop gets one, I'll look it over individually and possibly buy it. I'd think HM will more than likely get the paint issue fixed.

[skidmarksdiecast]

Got my shipment today and I must say they are much nicer than what I expected from all the Panther trash talk in this thread. Yes, I could have done without the super glue clouding around the rocket mounts and it could have had more detail (especially the inlets) but, overall, I think HM did a pretty good job. It has a very high "cool" factor about it. I would definitely add this old bird to my collection.

As a side note, you can place the plane on its stand without removing the screw plugs. It's not as secure, since the stand does not "plug in" to the recesses, but it does work.

The Panther's detail isn't too far behind Carousel 1 and you can't really compare the cost of C1's WWI & WWII birds with HM's 1/48 Panther-- the Panther being a larger plane (than C1's WWI & WWII birds) with retractable landing gear and folding wings. I betcha if C1 made a Panther with those features, it'd be a lot more than $69.99.

[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by Elmer

Fit at the wing root is an issue for many, many models. The EI 'Stang, I think, is more pronounced than any of the C1 models or the other two HM 1:48 models. I have never noticed a gap on the C1 P-40. I will take a closer look at it tonight. Regarding the Panther model, the gap at the wing fold appears to me much more pronounced than any EI, C1, or HM 1:48 model I have, or have seen; but one must have the model sitting side by side with the others for a fair analysis of which model has the least best fit. But the wing fold is only partly the eyesore. Those hinges! Ouch. It makes the whole fold line look a terrible eyesore (to my eye). And the gap exists at a much different place on the wing than other models. So... comparing the wing gap on this Panther model to a wing root gap on a C1 model is a bit like comparing apples and oranges.

I agree the folding hinges definitely standout, but that was their solution to allowing in allowing model to be displayed with the wings folded. With the wing fold, pretty much expected some degree of gap in the wing, moving parts makes it a bit tricky for a flush fit. I am not necessarily sure it is accurate to make comparison with model that is minus a folding wing, with regards to this gap (Museum quality model yes). I in the end I guess that sales will be the determining factor as to how much a detriment this was. Personally I was a little more surprised by the seams in the fuselage preceding the intake (Also seam extending into the intake). HM has usually done better in construction as to avoid these visible seams. Not sure if this has anything to do with produce,

[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by skidmarksdiecast

Got my shipment today and I must say they are much nicer than what I expected from all the Panther trash talk in this thread. Yes, I could have done without the super glue clouding around the rocket mounts and it could have had more detail (especially the inlets) but, overall, I think HM did a pretty good job. It has a very high "cool" factor about it. I would definitely add this old bird to my collection.

As a side note, you can place the plane on its stand without removing the screw plugs. It's not as secure, since the stand does not "plug in" to the recesses, but it does work.

The Panther's detail isn't too far behind Carousel 1 and you can't really compare the cost of C1's WWI & WWII birds with HM's 1/48 Panther-- the Panther being a larger plane (than C1's WWI & WWII birds) with retractable landing gear and folding wings. I betcha if C1 made a Panther with those features, it'd be a lot more than $69.99.

And it comes with a stand, to display it in flight. Nice looking model.

[lanslide]

I gotta tell ya guys...this model looks way better than most of the FM/As out there. As far as 1/48 scale, I'd say it is in the top 10% of them.

[smartd]

Originally Posted by Cruver Collecter

And it comes with a stand, to display it in flight. Nice looking model.

It does look sweet.