Fascinations Metal Earth Lockheed Martin U-2 Dragon Lady 3D Metal Model Kit

Bought this as a gift for my Dad as he LOVES Metal Earth kits. As usual, quality is on par and the entire thing is just a cool bit of history. It's to the point now where finding a kit he doesn't have is becoming more challenging, but lucky for me he didn't have this!

This was the first time I built one of these metal models...it was harder than I thought it would be. Had to get out a jewlers visor, various types of small High-end tweezers/cutters/miniture pliers, model paint brush handles to roll/form the metal, and a desk lamp. Took 2 days, but looks great once finished. Really nice paint/coating/details on this model...

I have made a few of these models and this one is very difficult to assemble.Had a chance to see one in action at an air show.Impressive to say the least.

Not very easy to bend the parts right without the right tools so I never finished it, not for beginners.Every part was accounted for, on time, clear instructions, not easy to bend pieces, but was good quality.

The model came in a flat package that was bent so none of the pieces would fit together properly. I was unaware it was a metal model (my fault for not reading better) so it was a mad hustle to put together but when we opened the packaged and realized they were bent and unusable we gave up. Very sad as it was for an end of year history project for my Sophomore.

I love these models, I have built over 30, from lighthouses to bulldozers. A few tools are a must, flush cutting wire cutters to remove the parts from the sheet. Smooth jawed needle nose pliers. I use a set of drill bits, using the smooth shank portion to help form the round or cylinder shaped pieces.

This is a well made, detailed small model. It is, however, not a child's toy. An experienced craftsman will be gratified by the results. Care and patience will be required.

Was difficult to assemble due to the micro size of some of the pieces. But once put together, it is perfect for what we needed.