One of my biggest concerns when buying this model was whether I'd be able to find sufficient references to be able to detail it. I needn't have worried. Sierra has included (by permission) an excellent set of multi-views and cutaway drawings by Gene Risedorph. These, along with helpful assembly notes and colour info, will allow builders to "pile in" the detail.
Vacuform Parts
Sierra's kit consists of 19 cleanly moulded vacuform parts, spread over 3 sheets of white plasic-card. The parts are nicely scribed and the simple shape of the original aircraft should make this a relatively straightforward build for anyone with some experience of vacuforms.The canopy is nice and clear, and a spare is thoughtfully provided.
Detail Parts
An unusual feature is Sierra's inclusion of detail parts as injection moulded items, rather than using resin. 21 parts are provided and they will need a great detail of cleaning up. Most modelers will probably chose to replace many of the parts with scratchbuilt items (or raid the spares box for alternatives).
Decals & Conclusion
One of the drawbacks to building vacuforms can be find suitable decals. Modelers need have no such fears here. Sierra has included a stunning set of markings for 4 aircraft custom-printed by Microscale. The quality is suberb.
This kit certainly doesn't fall into the "rattle the box and it will build itself" category... but then no vacuform does. For builders who relish a challenge and are looking for something a little different, Sierra's model offers the opportunity to produce a really eyecatching model that's bound to turn a few heads.
SUMMARY
The Consolidated P-30 (PB-2A) holds an important, if largely forgotten, place in the development of modern US aircraft during the 1930s. The 50 P-30As (along with 4 P-30 test aircraft) entered service in 1935 and were soon re-designated PB-2As. They were the only 2-seat fighter to serve with the Army Air Corps, and the first with a retactable landing gear. Powered by a 700hp Conqueror turbo-supercharged engine, the type flew with anumber of squadrons, and soldiered on, in reserve roles, until 1942.
About Rowan Baylis (Merlin) FROM: NO REGIONAL SELECTED, UNITED KINGDOM
I've been modelling for about 40 years, on and off. While I'm happy to build anything, my interests lie primarily in 1/48 scale aircraft. I mostly concentrate on WW2 subjects, although I'm also interested in WW1, Golden Age aviation and the early Jet Age - and have even been known to build the occas...
