Revell Monogram

In this classic model kit review, I'm looking at the Revell/Monogram Republic P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback (kit no. 5242). We'll be looking at the built up kit, the kit instructions, the surface detailing, the transparencies, the decals, potential problem areas to watch out for, and finally, I'll be giving my conclusions. Is this classic 1/48 scale P-47D Thunderbolt Razorback still worth building? Let's find out together!

[@767bob]

Nice job on your build! Yes this kit is worth building today, it can hold its own against the Tamiya kit. With proper pre-shading done to the panel lines it comes out looking great! I built this same kit when it first came out back in the 70's. I also built the bubble top version too. Back then, they were the best P-47 to build in 1/48. I have also built the old Hawk P-47 and a bit later the Otaki release of this aircraft. On the Otaki build, I used the monogram's engine and its cowling. Then I took the paddle Curtiss electric propeller from the Hawk kit. This was the only way I could compete against a Monogram P-47D razerback. Throughout the 80's the monogram P-47 was a very popular build in our club.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Thanks! I'm of the opinion that if you can finish an older kit well, the new ones turn out fantastic. The simple build and low cost mean you can experiment on the finish and hone your skills without worrying about messing it up. Cheers!

[@boblobla1611]

Hi Jon. This was the first kit I built when I returned to the hobby about eight years ago. I built mine very clean and only added brake lines. Over the years I added Eduard fabric seat belts, which are much easier to get into a completed model, and have done some weathering. It sits next to a couple of Tamiya Razorbacks and unless you get real close, especially in the cockpit, it holds up pretty well. This kit is definately worth building. Actually after seeing your video I'm going to pull one out of the stash for my next build.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

So cool 😎! It's amazing how well these have stood the test of time. I haven't tried the fabric belts yet, but I plan to in the future. I have had great success with the Eduard accessory products I've used so far. Cheers!

[@chrispacer4231]

Good morning, waiting for my coffee !!!!!!! I would PURCHASE and BUILD this kit, just on your review alone… You did a great job on the THUNDERBOLT… TOY FAIR coming up in two weeks, I’ll look for this kit, you never know what you’ll find at the TOY FAIR… Now my coffee, and start my SATURDAY… Model On…………… CHRIS 🇺🇸

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Thanks, Chris! The Toy Fair sounds fun. Have a great weekend. Cheers!

[@gsr4535]

I like this kit Jon. Built it about two years ago. Nice detail for such an old kit.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

For sure! Cheers

[@JOHNCORCORAN-m2i]

Hi Jon. I built my first one of these back in the Eighties. Now that i am returning to modeling i am waiting for another one to land on my doorstep. Then I can see how my skills have change and how the technology has advanced. Keep up the good work.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

@JOHNCORCORAN-m2i Thanks John! I'm working on a "masking technique" video now. I wish I knew these tips before getting back into the hobby. The video will air on Saturday. Cheers!

[@franciscovenegas1810]

Hi Jon, what a great video, nothing better than waking up and having an excellent review and analysis to watch, these Revell/Monogram sets are very good, with the exception of a few, I have a couple already built of a B25 J and a Blackwidow, both They are a delight to assemble, every detail they bring makes them a must-have to assemble and to have in modellers' collections. Despite their raised panel lines, they are very good for performing painting techniques. In fact, I like them. very much the finish with which your P47 has been left, thinking of replicating it when I build the one I have in my stash hahahaha These kits are highly recommended to get started or to be able to try riveting, I do not recommend erasing the raised lines and subsequent work to sink them, it is risky and sometimes they are not straight, but it is something personal and acquired skills Greetings and until the next video PS: A P47 D re 25 Miniart Kit is coming, it looks great in details, will it fight for first place among the P47 kits?....

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

I agree, Francisco! Just because they're cheap, it doesn't mean they're not good. I'll have to keep my eyes open for the Miniart P-47!

[@kitbuilder3027]

I have the P-47 D Bubble Top to build. I've built a lot of Monogram aircraft kits over the years. Are there more detailed kits available? Yes, but I believe that Monogram produces a cost effective product. Thank you for sharing your skills and expertise in producing a valuable resource to us. Larry Landis

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

You're welcome, Larry!

[@iangoldstraw6002]

Thanks for the review as I have just bought one to go with a recently purchased Monogram bubble top P-47..Both kits have few parts , but well detailed for their age When done, mine will either be an RAF example or one from the 56th FG 8th AF

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

@@iangoldstraw6002 Nice! I like seeing aircraft in allied colors for something different. Cheers!

Great kit. Very nice work!! Beautiful Razorback 🙂👍

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Thank you!

[@texasnutmegger3296]

I just finished one but the only issue I had was that the decals although they appeared intact, fell apart when I took them out of the water. I used aftermarket decals and ended up with a 1943 56th Fighter Group aircraft with some sexy nose art. It was a nice simple build which I enjoy time to time. If you can get it for under $20 with reasonable shipping I'd say go for it. However, some eBay prices are so outrageous you'd be better off just picking up a Tamiya kit.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Right on! I agree with those recommendations. Cheers!

[@f-104starfighter2]

Thanks and nice build! I just have one to return to the hobby. Just today I tried some dry fit and there are lots of gaps. I sanded some flashes but it's a long work...

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Thank you! It sounds like you may have gotten a later molding of the kit with more flash. Flash is present on all kits to some degree and I usually clean the parts with the side of an Exacto blade while watching TV to help it go faster. Cheers!

[@treyzmodels422]

Yours look great! Still a worthy build today👍

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Right on, thanks Trey!

[@namcat53]

Looks good...but, the very obvious pebbly paint texture makes it look like cast iron instead of smooth aluminum.

[@jonsmodelkitreview4624]

Thank you. I agree about the paint texture and have since switched to a silver paint with a smoother finish. This model was completed 20+ years ago. Cheers!