ProModeler 1/48 Me-410B-1

The Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse (Hornet) is a German heavy fighter and Schnellbomber used by the Luftwaffe during World War II. Though an incremental improvement of the Me 210, it had a new wing plan, longer fuselage and engines of greater power. The changes were significant enough for the aircraft to be renamed the Me 410.

The Me-410 was fairly successful as a bomber destroyer from late 1943 until the spring of 1944, when they met the first Mustang-escorted bomber raids. The 410 was no match for the P-51 and soon, losses were such that they were taken off this mission and returned to the fast bomber role. Production of the type ceased in mid 1944 in favor of single engine fighters.

By the time this kit was released, ProModeler was wholly an offering of Revell USA. Looking at the tooling, it is obvious that this one was a Monogram design. Panel lines are sharply engraved and the cockpit is superbly detailed and quite complete. As usual with these kits, there are crew figures included to help man the seats. There is a separate lower nose cover to handle other variants of this aircraft.

Once the fuselage has been assembled and all the bits attached (save the clear parts), attention turns to the wings and the engine nacelles. The exhaust is attached from the inside of the nacelles, which means either brush painting once done, or some careful masking. Main landing gear is very nicely done and can be installed after painting. The kit offers the option of installing W.Gr 21 rocket tubes if you so wish. Should you go that route, holes will need to be opened in the lower wing when building those.

Due to the complex shape of the canopy, this is built up in several section. The option to have the entrance panels open is provided. The last items to attach are the props.

Instructions are quite well done with detail photos of the real deal provided to assist in the build. Three markings options are provided, all in RLM 74/75/76 with fuselage mottling. All are from ZG 76. The decals are quite nicely done and there are aftermarket if you wish something different.

Overall, it is a really nice kit and can easily be found. Back when it first came out, I built one as a night intruder. It is still one of my favorite models.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Messerschmitt_Me_410_Hornisse

November 2022

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