The Hong Kong Models (HKM) B-17G features one of the most famous aircraft of World War II, and the 1:32 scale makes it a massive model. Fuselage length is 788mm (31in) while the wingspan measures 988mm (38.9in) - nearly a metre, or more than a yard, depending how you like to measure things. Either way the HKM B-17G is a biggie that will take a fair while to put together, as it has a total of 577 parts.
The four Wright Cyclone R-1820 engines look convincing, as do the flight deck and glazed bombardier’s nose position. The model is a reminder of a time when bombers needed big crews for combat duty, for each B-17G had a crew of ten - pilot, co-pilot, navigator, bombardier/nose gunner, top turret gunner, radio operator, two waist gunners, ball turret gunner, and tail gunner.
Photo-etch parts are supplied by HKM for detail items such as seat belts and intake grilles, though there is no choice where it comes to markings. Perhaps surprisingly, there is just one marking scheme provided as standard, for the yellow-tail aircraft depicted on the box-top, nose-art name ‘Milk Wagon.’
A nice touch is that part of the upper fuselage is supplied as a drop-on component, allowing you to remove it to inspect the intricate internal detail, from flight deck to radio room.
Summation
Looks like a winner for World War II aviation fans. Prices for the big beast are going to be variable depending where you live, but for the moment we are looking at a Japan-sourced price around the £180GBP ($280USD) mark, which for a metre-span megakit doesn’t sound too bad - but do make sure you have the display space.
The online Hobby Link Japan store is offering discounts on the B-17G here.
Other B-17 Flying Forts available here.