U-505 German Submarine Model
3 Feet Long 1/72 Scale
The kit comes in a large box, with the hull broken down into some quite large parts. The main hull is split into part and starboard sides,
which in turn are split into two pieces, one of about two thirds the hull length, and the final third for the stern. With the hull making up to be
over3 Feetlong this is necessary to keep some control over the size of the box, and helps allow for the fitting of some internal bulkheads
that will help keep the hull in shape and add strength to the finished model. Rivet detail on the hull itself is nicely done,
as is the wood planking on the main deck. Some internal elements are included for both the 4 torpedo tubes at the bow and the two at the stern,
so you can model it with the outer doors open if you choose to, and allowing that basic internal detailing to be seen.
The large conning tower carries the periscope standards of course, and the two lower sections carry both 20mm and 37mm AA guns.
These are not bad, though I suspect some modellers will look to replace the gun barrels with turned brass alternatives.
The railings on both the conning tower and deck are included, as are the handrails to run around the tower as well. With twin screws at the stern,
along with rudder and the forward diving planes, there is a good deal to fit to the long hull. Also included is a long twine to create the \'rigging\'
that stretched between the forecastle and the conning tower, and then from the rear of the conning tower to the stern.
The moulded detail throughout is very nicely done though I am sure some aftermarket manufacturers will do update sets to allow for
detailing the guns and other elements of the boat, as we have seen happen with the earlier Type VII. There are two finishing options provided for,
with the U505 as seen in German service, or as she was once captured by the US Navy. Either way this is of course a large and impressive model,
one where you will need to think about space to display it once done. Coupled with their Type VII,
this can make for a very impressive display piece, and Revell manage to do these large models rather well.
