Thanks. As a matter of criticism I would like to note that all of the shortcomings, of which there are many, resulted from my average modeling skills and impatience, not from the kit itself. this kit is not perfect — none are, but it is flawless in terms of design and assembly.
Issues I experienced:
1. I could have fitted the bottom wings better to the fuselage. More care with clean up and alignment needed on my part.
2. Breaking off an elevator, the result of putting them on too early.
3. My inability to rig the aileron control wires, resulting in what Tom McGuane accurately described as "dire clownage".
4. Turnbuckle alignment: even using brass tube and a loop of monofilament to provide some flexibility, I managed to get some cockeyed. I think from now on, I will dispense with turnbuckles exception the most necessary places.
5. Using twisted wire "eyes" of my own manufacturing that are too large for the Lewis gun rigging. I now have Bob's Buckles which would have been much better.
6. Not getting the decal areas glossy enough, especially on the wings.
7. I goobered up a window. Don't ask...
8. The extra cockpit wiring is invisible now.
9. I forgot to paint the spinner when I painted the wings and fuselage, so it has become a new replacement from the parts pool.
10. I managed to break off the front tip end of the claw brake.
This is a outstanding kit of a significant and funky WWI aircraft. Everyone should build at least one.
