by: Peter Allen [ ]
FOREWORD
Score ratings take into consideration many factors and are arrived at after assessing the type and quality together with exclusivity and value. So an inexpensive injection kit may score more highly than a limited run resin model or visa versa.
PLANET MODELS
This Czech Republic based company generally produce high quality, limited run resin kits of unusual and concept aircraft that are a match for most in this sector. Some newer kits have metal parts provided.
Planet models also has an extensive range of 1/72nd Armour/Military Vehicles and 1/200th Submarine kits.  |  |
BACKGROUND
When the Me 210 proved to be a failure, work was started on a new design by Dr. Hermann Wurster given the designation Me 329. The design was unusual in being tailless and having a pair of Daimler-Benz DB 603 or Jumo 213 piston engines, enclosed within the swept wings, powering pusher propellers. The aircraft was to be mainly made of wood to save on nonstrategic materials and offer a low weight. To save costs and retooling, it was to use many parts from the Me 410. A large glazed cockpit was provided for the crew of two and up to 5291 lbs of bombs could be carried in an internal bomb bay or under the wings. Many roles were envisaged for the Me 329 including Heavy fighter, Escort fighter, Night fighter, Dive bomber, Fighter-bomber and Reconnaissance. The design was highly thought of and a full scale mock-up was completed. However even though the design promised much, the fact that the Me 329’s unusual layout required much development and due to the improved performance of the Me 410 in various roles even though there were still many problems with its flight dynamics, the design was cancelled.
RESIN PARTS
Type: All resin.
Parts:47
As with most Planet models, the quality of casting is high. As with most resin kits, wing roots to fuselage will need reinforcing with for example, brass rod, as they are flush fit. The fuselage/engine section is hollow cast and the thickness uniformly thin offering lots of room for weights to prevent tail-sitting. Larger parts will need the casting trees removing but panel lines and detailing are good. Smaller parts are all up to a high standard for resin and as per usual come in large flash “flakes” to keep them safe when boxed. All parts need clean up and removing from the “flakes”.  | | |
CLEAR PARTS
Care is essential as there is only one vacuform canopy provided. Detail and clarity is good.
DECALS
Basic set of decals for one aircraft provided including swastikas. Quality average.
Decals are better than poor picture indicates.
INSTRUCTIONS
New generation of instructions for Planet Models. Now much more detailed than previous instructions and all the better for it. Good camo diagram also provided.
VALUE
Not cheap but competitively priced for this type and size of kit.
CONCLUSIONS
As with most Planet Models kits, the quality of casting is high and with some extra detailing will make an excellent model for any reasonably experienced modeller. For those new to modelling, all-resin kits like this will not be too difficult as long as care and time is taken.
About Peter Allen (flitzer) Greetings to all.
My real name is Peter Allen and I have recently returned to UK from working in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as a creative director in an advertising agency.
My home town is Wigan in the north of England.
I’m married to Emily, a Polish lass who tolerates my modelling well.
I’ve wor... Copyright ©2021 text by Peter Allen [ ]. Images also by copyright holder unless otherwise noted. Opinions expressed are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of AeroScale. All rights reserved.
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