Metal Earth 3D Model Kits Set of 9 Planes: Spirit of St Louis - Wright Brothers - P-51 Mustang - Avro Lancaster Bomber - de Havilland Tiger Moth DH82 - Cessna Skyhawk - Mitsubishi Zero - Fokker D-VII - F4U Corsair

I've put together more than 50 metal earth models and love every one of them. Many times you can find a set of multiple models for a much lower individual price. Some are just harder than others. A few considered "easy" on metal earths web site have been harder than ones considered "challenging" or "expert". I like the harder ones. Spending $7 to $10 on a model that I put together in less than 20 minutes sucks. Having the proper tools is a must. A pair of small wire cutters (I purchased the Hakko CHP-170 for less than $5), a small pair of pliers or two (I purchased at Hobby Lobby in the jewelry section), a set of small electronic/watch repair screwdrivers (to bend the tabs or to take apart when I mess up), and since my eyes are not what they used to be, a head magnifier or cheap reading glasses you can get at any dollar store. I search around the house for things that may help. Round pencils, small wood dowel, markers of different sizes, anything that fits the shape I need.Many of the pieces in the models are very small, and the tabs to be bent or twisted are hard to get to or manipulate. But isn't that the idea of a model? With all Metal Earth models, take your time and if something doesn't seem to fit then stop, backtrack, and look and see if you missed something or have a wrong piece in the wrong place. The instructions are easy to read, but on the more than 50 models I have put together only 2 or 3 have had an error in the instructions. I have learned that if you come to a spot in the instructions that is hard to understand then slightly twist the tabs. This allows for a much easier time taking apart. You can then bend or twist the tabs when you know it is correct. The tabs can be bent several times before they break (I can't seem to put together any of them without messing up and having to take a piece or two off to correct).

Tiny, and the directions were not as comprehensive(or as accurate) as they could have been, but an enjoyable way to pass a few hours. You really need: tweezers, metal clippers, needle nose pliers, and a cloth of some sort to hopefully slow down the escape of ricocheting pieces. A round surface in a variety of sizes was very helpful, too. Knitting needles, crochet hooks, wire wrapping tools or ring sizers are good options for that. It took wheel making from mental cursing to smug triumph for me, and the nose pieces and cockpits on some modles would have been impossible to bend nicely without it.

Ok

What a great set! They look so impressive when built!

A nice way to spend an hour or two. Not so much for people who don't get things right the first time, the steel is unforgiving.