Round 2 Models has certainly come out with some interesting stuff in the last few years, including AMT, MPC, Polar Lights (Aurora), Hawk and Lindberg kits from yesteryear. As IPMS Historian, I also find it gratifying that the models that have disappeared from the shelves have reappeared for the newer modelers to enjoy.

The Plane

The de Havilland Comet was the first purpose-built jet airliner which first flew in 1949, entering service in 1952. The major overseas airlines of the early fifties were BOAC and Pan Am. BOAC ordered British made Comets, Pan Am bought American made Constellations, DC-4s and then 707s, DC-8s and Convair 880s.

Thanks to Matho Models for this sample.

During the First World War, it was common to see posters to support the effort, buy bonds and accept the sacrifices asked of people on the home front.

This item, packed in a zip lock bag with a hanger and cardstock backing, provides 22 various US posters in 1/35 scale printed on 0.1 mm semi-gloss paper. Under extreme magnification, reading glasses, Optivisor and magnifying lamp, I was able to see some signs of the printing process, however, under normal viewing conditions, these look fine. All but the finest print is readable, colors are sharp but muted enough to not be overwhelming. Each poster will need to be cut from the sheet using a straight edge and sharp X-Acto type blade. A couple will need closer than usual attention to get the light edges cut properly as they tend to blend into the background.

These will add a touch of color to a street scene and some might even work as a name plate on a figure base.

The kit contains a 3 ton truck, apparently an Opel Blitz although it does not say so, a driver figure, and a sprue of fuel drums, jerry cans, bags and rolled up tarps, and decals for two marking options.

There are two duplicate sprues for the wheels and tires, some suspension parts, headlights and other parts that are identical. The ejector pin marks are on inside of truck bed and inside of the doors and easy to hide. Unfortunately, there is no option for canvas cover to be over the bed. There is also no engine in the kit. The grill is molded solid as are the tool clips. The kit does have an option for clear headlight lenses or covered headlights with a horizontal slit across the face of the headlight.

Assembly

Initially the assembly went very well. The parts fit well and are generally designed for easy assembly. The steering column inserts from engine well side of the firewall and is very secure, ensuring proper angle of the steering wheel.