Who doesn't like X-planes? Can't think of any long time aircraft modeler who has not built at least one. One of the least known of the early X planes is the Northrop X-4. This tail-less research aircraft was not designed to go higher, or farther or faster. Its main reason for being was to explore low speed handling and specifically the handling of aircraft without a horizontal stabilizer. 

Who better to design such an aircraft as Mr. Flying Wing himself, Jack Northrop. Two aircraft were built and the first one took to the skies in late 1948. After 30 flights the two planes were turned over to the Air Force. The first one was permanently grounded to provide spares for the second plane. NACA then began flying test flights with the #2 plane in late 1950. After several years of test flying, most of it in the transonic arena of .8-.9 mach, the program was terminated in 1954 after unsolvable fuel leaks grounded the #2 plane after 82 flights.

For those used to MPM kits, there are really no surprises. The kits seem to be getting better and better with each release. This one has superb detailing and relatively thin sprue attachment points. There is no photoetched parts (hooray), and resin is only used for the wing fences, pitot tubes and rudder mass balances. A real improvement is that the canopy is injected plastic. It is thick and distorted, but so much easier to work with than a vacuformed one (at least it is for me).

The interior is quite basic with but a seat, stick, instrument panel floor and bulkhead. No sidewall detail. Though not mentioned, you will probably need some nose weight to keep the kit from tailsitting. The wheel wells are not boxed in so if that is important to you, break out the plastic card.

The X-4 flew in a couple of different guises and though the modifications are small, they are provided. Basically it is a choice of large or small wing fences and the installation of external mass balances for the rudder.  The instruction sheet is quite good and more than adequate to complete the kit. Three different schemes are provided. One for the first plane in overall light grey. The second plane can be done either as the NACA bird on the box art in white, or as the USAF test plane in light grey with large areas of red. Any of the schemes should be quite pleasing. Decals are by Propagteam so you know of the quality.

Overall, it looks like a very nice kit and one that should build relatively quickly. 

Review kit courtesy of me and my wallet!

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