A-26B Invader (B-26B)

Revell, 1/72 scale

Reviewed by Glen Porter

Revell's 1/72 scale A-26B Invader is available online from Squadron.com
 

This is the third incarnation of the Italeri A-26, this time re-boxed by Revell of Germany.

The difference is that Italeri did the K and C variants while Revell has opted for the B version with the solid eight gun nose.

Click the thumbnails below to view larger images:

Anyone interested in this kit might find it helpful to first read Brett Green's review of the “K” at http://kits.kitreview.com/italeri1249reviewbg_1.htm and the “C” at http://kits.kitreview.com/italeri1259reviewbg_1.htm, as many of the parts are the same.

Now this is not just a standard “B” but a Korean War “B”. This means it does not carry both turrets but the dorsal turret only, and even then of a slightly different design. Both this kit and the “C” have all three turrets on the sprues. In fact the only change in the plastic from “B” to “C” is the solid or glazed nose. The problem is, Revell doesn’t point out on the parts plan, which parts are not for use in this kit, unlike most other manufacturers. It would be very easy for even an experienced modeller to start building with out taking too much notice of the instructions only to discover, too late, that they've used the wrong turret.

This kit, and the “C”, can be built as a WW II aircraft but neither Revell or Italeri have produced decals for that period or in fact the early asymmetrical six gun nose. Perhaps they are still to come?

There are just a couple of little niggles in my opinion. I don't much care for the decal only instrument panel, much preferring a detailed panel with or without the decal. The plastic in a metallic silver which I personally find annoying although I can't for the life of me tell you why. The plastic is beautifully detailed and crisp and it's going to be painted anyway so I can't see that it makes any difference. I guess I would just prefer grey.

Clear parts are very thin and free of distortion - nice!

The decals look typical Revell except for some misalignment with the red on the US national markings. They cover four aircraft - two USAF in Korea, one green with a dark grey nose and one in overall black with provocative nose art, plus two French Air Force in Vietnam, although it is in fact the same aircraft at different periods.

This third rendering of the best looking light bomber produced during the Second World War will build into a magnificent model, my little gripes not withstanding, but I just wonder if anyone will get around to giving us an early example or will that be left to the resin and decal people?

Highly Recommended.
 

Thanks to Revell for the sample.

Review and Text Copyright © 2007 by Glen Porter
Page Created 16 January, 2007
Last updated 24 December, 2007

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