1:48 Scale Full Build
This is a great kit from Tamiya. It features Open or Closed Canopies, Refueling Tube, and Ladder. The Wings, Flaperons, and Speed Brakes can be displayed in the Up or Down positions. Ordinance features 4 AIM-7E Sparrows, 4 AIM-9G/H Sidewinders, One Center Drop Tank, and 2 Wing Drop Tanks. The kit comes with uncut painting masks, and Three Squadron Variations.
The model is highly detailed. Most gates are located in areas that do not affect the appearance of the model and require little sanding. The kit does come with canopy masks that are not pre-cut, but are fairly easy to cut with a sharp blade. The decals, in my opinion are a little thick, but are not noticeable once applied to the completed model. The instructions are very detailed and easy to follow. A few of the guides do get a bit lost in the mix, so pay attention to what needs to be cut and when.
Overall, this is a great kit for its price and worth the expense!
The entire build can be seen here:
Starting off, the instructions are followed by putting in the components to the front and rear fuselage areas.