Summary
After struggling in the past to produce a decent result from Monogram’s vintage offering, I was looking forward to this latest kit from ICM. That’s not to deride the Monogram kit as it was good for its time and many modellers have produced some lovely models from it. With this up to date tooling, however, it makes it possible to build a 48th scale B-26 without all the effort required for the older kit. The engineering is up there with the leading brands – no filler was used on this model at all, and the detail is also excellent although a lot of it is difficult to see after the fuselage is closed. The model retails at just over £60 in the UK which I think is a very reasonable amount. I have been informed by some of my American friends, however, that the retail price in the States is $120 which is significantly more expensive.
The one thing that lets this kit down is, of course, those two main undercarriage legs. In fact the first thing I did after the model was completed was to photograph it before the gear collapsed. Actually it is still surviving but if you listen closely, you can hear it groaning! This is definitely a model which needs metal legs and I hope it is not too long before SAC offer these on the aftermarket. This adds to the cost however. So, if you read this ICM, please include some metal legs with that B-26G!
Rob R.
SMN Quick Summary – rating out of 5
| ICM B-26B Marauder 1:48 | STAR RATING |
|---|---|
| Quality of moulding | **** |
| Accuracy | **** |
| Instructions | *** |
| Decals | **** |
| Subject choice | ***** |
| Build enjoyment | **** |
| Overall | **** |
Gallery Images
Paul Ainsworth says
“Hello,Rob” – An excellent feature and build of the Marauder.
I’ve heard good reports about ICM kits and you’ve certainly done justice to this one.
I love the finishing-work.The tonal variation,weathering and chipping-effects really bring her to life.
A model to be very proud of.🏆
As Always,
Paul.😉👍
Rob Ruscoe says
Thanks Paul.
Much appreciated.
ICM are certainly up there with the top manufacturers. They also keep Revell going!
Rob.R
Tim English says
Very nice work, your paint work looks fantastic.
I built a 1/72 Airfix Marauder a few years back & had the same problem with the gear strength & can imagine it being worse with a 1/48 scale one.
One idea to add strength is to add a thin piece of wire connecting the gap beween the tire & the gear strut, or possibly clear sprue so that it is hardly visible.
The angle forward on the leg doesn’t help matters either!
Rob Ruscoe says
Thanks for your nice comments Tim. Makes the effort worthwhile. I build OOB for the SMN articles warts and all. I can report the main legs on the Marauder have been drilled and pinned already. Replacement white metal legs are the only long term answer though. With any model like this, I think the manufacturer should already include metal landing gear as standard. Trumpeter were guilty of this in the past but they have listened to the criticism and provided metal legs in their heavier kits. Hopefully ICM and others will take note.
Regards
Rob.R