I want to buy an F-100 and F-104 in 1/72 scale, but I don’t know which of the kits out there is best. I know Hasegawa makes (or made) both aircraft, but their kits seem fairly old, and I’ve seen a Tamiya F-100, Italeri F-104, and Academy F-104 (which goes for less than $4, making me a bit suspicious), too. I’ve had a hard time finding reviews of the various kits. Are there any others out there? Does anyone know the pluses and minuses of each kit? Which ones have good detailing, recessed panel lines, and good fit?
Thanks for helping me out!
The Tamiya F-100 is actually the Italeri reboxed. It is an excellent kit. Great overall fit and nice detail. The drawbacks are the poor cockpit and the extra frame on the canopy that shouldn’t be there. The main landing gear doors are also a bit inaccurate for a D model. As for the F-104, I would go with the Italeri F-104G kit. It went together beautifully for me. You can make it into an S if you want because the extra pylons for Sparrow missiles are provided. Can’t remember if the Sparrows are provided, but those can be easily obtained from other sources. If you want a USAF F-104C, then the Monogram kit is best.
Didn’t read your whole post before replying. Both the Tamiya/Italeri F-100D and Italeri F-104G have recessed panel lines. Also, be careful with the painting instructions on Italeri kits. They are almost always highly inaccurate! Research carefully if you like accuracy.
Thanks! I think I’ll look for the Tamiya/Italeri F-100.