[PappyB]

This bird also touched down today at Diecast Ace Field, along with the second release SBD. Here are some quick pics for y'all to check out. (edit: this is the final retail release.)

My initial impressions are that is quite a nice model, and definitely better than the Corgi version -- particularly in the nose/canopy area and pilots (they look a bit silly out of the plane, though ). The panel lines are more fine, but I wish they were even more fine... but they look better than Corgi's. And it looks like there's a very subtle wash applied, very subtle...

The open front canopy works just like Corgi's -- there's a separate piece in the box that you just attach the same way as you do with the Corgi version -- but this one fits much better than my Annette! The rear canopy is hinged and opens and shuts very smoothly -- I like it.

The bombs/fuel pods attach easily are also molded as one piece -- as in the pylons come with everything preattached. A dab of elmers will probably be a good idea to keep these on securely.

And the open gear is a joy to install -- very easy with no fiddly bits! Remember those tiny small doors right beneath the main struts on the Corgi version.. well these are molded onto the lowered gear struts so you don't have to mess with 'em. I like that, too...

I did break one of the main struts when I applied some pressure to the model -- I think I was fighting with the pilot to get it seated right... but it broke cleanly and just will take some glue to fix. But take care as the gear may be prone to breaking.

The only other thing I noticed was the decal for the closed gear door is not included on the open door.. whoops.

I must say I still prefer FM's in 1:48 for the sheer brute appeal of the scale and the heavy metal "heft" factor -- a model where I really think this is important to me, I guess. But this is definitely an improvement for Phantom nuts in 1:72, no question.

[Kaptin_Kirk]

Sold! I just placed an order to buy this one thanks Pappy.

[STARMAN 352ND]

That one looks much better.....I have one on pre-order....
Good to see the canopy fix on the Phantom.
How does the stand work with this one?
Great Pictures.
JP

[smartd]

Thanks for the review Pappy, sounds like HM has another winner.

[trex0770]

Very nice, now I've gotta go order one! BTW Steve, I think you might be the ultimate shill for HM......heck diecast airplane manufacturers in general!!

[PappyB]

Originally Posted by trex0770

Very nice, now I've gotta go order one! BTW Steve, I think you might be the ultimate shill for HM......heck diecast airplane manufacturers in general!!

LOL, though I object to the "shill" term a bit -- there is definitley no association between myself and HM other than they occassionally send me product to review.

I still buy my fair share... and then some!

I guess I just like to balance my getting in trouble with the Mrs. by getting others in trouble with their Mrs.

[Epapazian]

Thanks, Pappy. I'm glad I ordered it.

[hworth18]

Looks great!! Glad to see HM is listening and made the minor fixes to make this one a winner.. I can't wait for "Showtime" now....

Any word as to when we will see these in stores??

[Cruver Collecter]

That is one sharp looking F4, real tempted to pick one of these up.

[PappyB]

Originally Posted by hworth18

Looks great!! Glad to see HM is listening and made the minor fixes to make this one a winner.. I can't wait for "Showtime" now....

Any word as to when we will see these in stores??

I believe the Ritchie should be in stores very soon.. in the next 2-3 weeks, so early May. And I think the Showtime is another 3-4 weeks out from that, so early June? Hawk?