Revell U.S.S Iwo Jima (LHD-7) 1:350

Instructions & Painting Guide

The instructions are up to the usual Revell standard, well thought out and really easy to follow.

The instructions are 36 pages long (cover to cover) and, as you can see from the sample pictures below, the diagrams are easy to follow.

My only problem, which is only a small one, is the paint chart, which has the usual 60%/40% mixtures, that just don’t really appeal to me.

But this problem will be easily overcome. The painting guides are excellent, one side covers the USS Wasp itself, with the decal placement, unfortunately the paint numbers refer to the Revell colours, but like the instructions are very clear.

On the reverse side of this, all the vehicles (both armour and aircraft) showing colours and decal placement, again they are very clear and easy to follow.

Photo Etch

One really nice inclusion in this latest release from Revell is the three photo etch (P.E.) frets that cover the railings and nets associated with the ship (2 identical sprues).

Also included is parts for the antenna arrays, with these frets included in the kit it removes most modellers need for aftermarket accessories; as the major downfall in most ship kits are the railing, so Revell came up with a really good idea of including them in P.E. in the kit.

A very nice addition to the USS Iwo Jima.

Decals

There is a very comprehensive decal set spread out over four sheets; one covering the USS Iwo Jima itself, one for the landing crafts, a smaller sheet for the Harriers (sorry, AV-8B’s) and the final sheet for the rest of the aircraft.

These decals look good, are easily readable and look like they will settle down well your personal choice of decal solution.

Conclusion

With a RRP of £129.99, this kit is outstanding value for money. I know it sounds stupid, but here me out.

With The inclusion of the P.E. frets, aircraft and vehicles and just the overall standard throughout, there is enough to keep almost any modeller happy.

This is an excellent kit of an interesting subject, and bodes well for any future maritime projects from Revell.

If there is one thing I can’t stress enough, it’s to say don’t be put off by the price; if you purchase this kit you will be a happy modeller.

Geoff C.