The MJ1-B is a United States Air Force bomb loader built by Hydraulics International. It has served in various forms since the 1950's and sports a 3000 lb. lifting capacity and a 25-horsepower engine. It is able to lift up to a height of 78 inches and was widely used in Vietnam and the Persian Gulf War.

The kit consists of enough parts to build either the MJ1-B (the late version), or the earlier MJ1-A version. The solid resin parts are finely cast and the kit includes a figure for each version – a male for the early one and a female for the late one.

All parts had to be cleaned and cut from their casting blocks, and are on the soft side. There was minimal flash on some parts which was easy to clean up. Care needs to be taken on the steering wheel and the side arms, as they’re very thin and delicate.

The wheels had a large casting area which made it difficult to restore the tread pattern to the tires. Video gives the option of a solid light, which is the one I used, and a hollow light to which you would need to add a lens, if used.

The fit of the parts, once sanded, was excellent. The figure I used consisted of 2 arms, a lower body (from the waist down), and an upper torso. It assembled into a good pose for an operator. The other figure had a separate head.

I used CA glue throughout and primed my model with Gunze grey. I also used Gunze paints for the colors.

Two decal sheets were included in my review sample. One sheet had a choice of three markings options for the late MJ1-B, one from Vietnam and two from the mid-80's. There were also three choices for the MJ1-A. The decals were in register, but did not want to settle down around raised detail of the instrument panel. I used Solvaset and Microsol and a lot of poking to get that one finally to settle in.

The instructions showed three red hoses to put on the lifter, but I found nothing like them in the kit.

When finished, the model becomes a tail sitter. A block was made to hold it level and keep the front wheels on the ground. A heavy bomb would help, but none was included with the kit. It’s a nice looking piece, and was not a difficult build even though it was my first resin model.

My thanks to Video Aviation and IPMS/USA for the review opportunity.