Hi GN, and welcome! I was in your position a year ago or so. I started with the DR1, and have to say that it was a bit of a challenge for me, as I tried to use PE aftermarket details that I was not used to. I was following a build log, but the instructions and the fit were not the best, and I got frustrated with the slow pace and put it aside for a few months. I restarted a couple of months later, and finished it in four weeks. I immediately started and finished a WNW Pfaltz D.IIIa in just four weeks, and it was much easier.
Having said that, I built a second Roden 1/32 DR1 in six weeks a couple of months ago, and it was much easier the second time. I think part of this is just getting used to WWI builds and getting that first one under your belt. Comparing my experience with the Roden DR1 and WNW Pfaltz as 1-2, I would say that the WNW kit is easier to build from a fit and instruction standpoint, and is structurally more sound (the DR.1 landing gear struts are nicely scale thickness, meaning a bit wobbly and weak when bearing weight, and the attachment points are not a pillar of strengh or certainty
), but the rigging is less on the DR.1. The Pfaltz was my first model with more riggng and it went just fine using Bob's Buckles and monofilament per Des's tutorial on this sight (definately read it), and I had never done it before. I actually came to enjoy rigging after a couple of builds. Like anything else, it just takes a little practice and patience to overcome the intimidation factor.
In summary, I think either kit would be a fine choice for first time out. I can't tell if the Pfaltz seemed easier because it is a better engineered kit, or because I already had the experience of the DR.1 which helped me learn a lot. I suspect it was a combination of the two. Whichever you choose, make sure you persevere through the inevitable frustration points we all experience, and you'll soon be turning out gems for us to admire!
Use the tutorials here, and I also find it helpful to locate a build log or two for the particular kit I am building.
If you decide on the DR.1, you will likely need to figure out the Fokker streaking finish. For that, I refer you to an ongoing current discussion of a simple technique I have used over at the Lothar's Tripe thread in the Completed Models section of this forum, complete with pictures and a link to a great tutorial.
Best of luck, have fun and enjoy. We're all here to help and support you along the way. Ask lots of questions, and we'll all learn something.
Regards,
Bob
