Revell 1/48 Stearman PT-17
By Gerry Nilles
History
The Boeing/Stearman Model 75 is undoubtedly one of the most recognizable training aircraft of all time. The Model 75 began as a Stearman private design venture in 1934, which incidentally is the same year that Stearman became a subsidiary of the Boeing Company. Deliveries of the new primary trainer (PT) began in 1936. Interestingly, and a bit confusing, is the fact that the Model 75 had a number of different designation within the US military including NS, N2S, PT-13, PT-17, PT-18 and of course the Kaydet.
The Model 75 has the distinction of being the most produced training aircraft in US history with production numbers ranging from anywhere between the mid 8,000s to over 10,000 depending on the source. The Kaydet also is the last major production biplane delivered to the US military. Not surprisingly, a number of different power plants including engines produced by Lycoming, Continental, and Jacobs powered the Model 75.
The Kit
Before I begin this review, I just want to comment on what has seems to be trend in the modeling world for decades. If it is not a Me-109, P-51 or Spitfire and the kit is already available regardless of its quality or age your chances of getting a state of the art version are slim to none. So, and with that in mind, I want to give a special thanks to Revell for thinking out of that box, and being right on target with their selection of subject matter, good quality and reasonable pricing.Being a first look review I of course cannot address fit, but that aside this kit really looks good on initial inspection. First off, the kit comes with a complete interior including the tubular framing individual foot pedals and side panels, internal ribbing on the insides of the fuselage halves along with nicely done instrument panels, and a separate fire extinguisher. Add to this a couple of good-looking bucket seats with the molded in seat belts.
Next, we have the engine, which consists of multiple individual parts including a separate engine mount and firewall assembly, exhaust system, push rod assembly, and a choice of propellers, either wooden or steel. I should note here that the wood grain pattern and metal edging unique to the wooden prop are provided on the decal sheet.
Lastly, the ribbing on the wings, horizontal and vertical stabilizers look to be just about right, subtle, and not overdone.
Assembly Instructions and Markings
The assembly instructions and step-by-step painting & decal placement guides are well done and easy to follow. Two choices of markings come with this kit including one for a US Army Air Corp trainer and one for the US Navy. Of note is that both of these schemes are warbird-based and as such have civil aviation registrations or "N" numbers on their vertical stabilizer.
Conclusion
This is a well-done, kit of a classic trainer and as such, a very sincere atta-boy goes to Revell. Keep thinking out of the box people.