Reviews : HobbyBoss EZ ME 262A-2A German Fighter

I was pleasantly surprised when I opened the kit (my first HobbyBoss kit), to find the parts nicely sorted out, and a wing/undercarriage one-piece mold. The upper carapace was also one piece (only lacking the rear wings). I was unpleasantly surprised, though, when I realized there was no pilot for the plane. I understand some hobbyists build their kits with landing gear extended, but I build mine in flight and it seems silly to do that without a pilot model. Seems like an optional pilot piece (even a partial piece) wouldn't be too difficult to include and would satisfy everyone. The decals are nice, though I wonder why they've chosen to break up the swastika decals into two parts. There are, in fact, enough decals for 2 FULL planes, which was part of my impetus for buying this particular model kit, and while I haven't applied the decals yet, they look nicely detailed and done. Building the kit with landing gear retracted is difficult, as usual (though slightly easier than most). The instructions are relatively easy to follow but do require special attention during tricky parts, and in at least one instance, careful test fitting prior to gluing as the engine pods are mislabeled on the sheet. It comes with optional parts for drop tanks, bombs and rockets. The cockpit is nicely detailed, only lacking in the aforementioned pilot.

This ME262 by Hobby Boss is a good value, whether you are a new or experienced modeler. The fit was very good, no filler needed. The cockpit could have used more detail but you can fix that if you want. Some weight will be needed in the nose and the exterior panel lines were decent, Decals were good and choice for two versions. All in all, a good value and a nice plane as a result.