P-61 Black Widow

gsgreene
This kit is difficult. The canopy has major fit issues and if you intend to build it with the canopy closed, it adds an extra dimension of problems. Bad fit is an understatement. It simply doesn't work. There are 3/16" gaps particularly in the top front canopy section and the front stbd rear section. Revell could do themselves a favor a re-release this model after a retool of just the clear parts and it would make a huge difference. Unless your extremely skilled and patient, filling these areas improperly will destroy the looks of this kit and make it turn out toylike.
The decals are good. I've seen some complaints about the difficulty of the long thin upper wing section decals but they are what they are. They simply take skill in their application but the quality of the decals isn't an issue.
My other main problem is the fit of the wings to the wing roots. It's just bad. On this aircraft that has twin boom with the single central horiz stabilizer, the fit between the wing roots needs to be better. Plan on using massive amounts of filler on this model in general with poor fit in a number of areas but the wing roots are particularly bad.
the issues that people bring up with the raised panel lines is a nothingburger. It's an older kit and you know this going in. If someone has a problem with raised panel lines, don't purchase this kit. You can't complain about it after the fact. Plus the detail is pretty good throughout, with the exception of the canopy.

Steven Van Dyck
A serious problem was the difference in left and right engine setup. One is meant to be exposed with an opened cowling and the other is a lot shorter because it is only visible through the closed cowling. I built it flying with two crew, also a challenge to find fitting pilots. Jukin' Judy | Project by StevenVD (1:48)

Ben M
I think I built the 1974 version when I was a kid.

Ketoujin Автор
Yes, it is. The copyright 1974 mark is on the wing root.