Testors 1/72 B2 Bomber

This is the review of the B-2 Spirit in 1/72 from Testors

The B-2 bomber first flight was in 1989. It was developed based on some older flying wing prototypes and, like the F-117, also on the equations of Petr Ufimtsev which allowed to predict the reflection of the radar waves. However, the availability of powerfull computers allowed to do the calculations on its curved shapes. More than that, it also has radar absorvent materials and a carbon coating to increase its stealth. However, it requires to be always stored on temperature and humidity controled hangars...

This model is big, really big, I can put a B-17 and a Lancaster on top of it...

It must be the hardest to build I've ever seen. Its not fragile, but the parts are usually warped, and you have to choose 1 of several ways of building it... Don't know which is easyer, as to fit  the fuselage and wings is hard... Not much because of the fit, but because of the size and warping.

But its the only B2 in 1/72 that I know of, so, there is no choice. One aditional task is to sand off all the raised panel lines. Just because you look at the real one and you don't see nor recessed nor raised details, its all smooth.

 The landing gear wells and bombs bay is a little out of detail, rough, but with extra styrene you can put in some small details and make it look better.

Landing gear itself is ok, as well as the landing gear doors. 

The bomb bay will need some retouch, as by the latest pics the rotating support is not that well...

 But with some work, it can look very good. As they are blank and straight, adding details can be easy.

The cockpit could also get some more upgrades, but you cannot see that much... Just don't let any dust get in, or you'll be in trouble...

My decals stick perfectly, they were nice, and as soon as I sprayed the clear matt coat, they reacted and wrinkled and self destruct... Had to paint the lines... So, be carefull and test before the last coat...

One curious thing is the opened ailerons/rudder. At first I thought on putting some "details" on them...Until I saw the video of the real one, and noticed that its inside was also empty, like the model... But try to take the warp out of them with warm water, before assembly...

But appart from all the work you will have on doing it, on the end, it does look perfect, a very elegant airplane. If you find one, get it. You'll endup with something unique.