Dragon Models Ltd

1/32 Bf-110-1R1 Dackelbauch

Kit Number: 3207

Reviewed by  Nick Buro, IPMS# 12053

MSRP: $127.95 Website: www.dragonmodelsusa.com The BF-110-1R-1 was modified specifically for long-range activity against Allied shipping with Luftwaffe units operating out of Norway. They were produced simultaneously with "C" model 110's. The only visible difference between the C and D models was the addition of a 264 imp. gallon fuel tank mounted on the belly of the aircraft. Dragon follows up on the initial release of the their new slide-mold Bf110 kit with the Dackelbauch (meaning "dachshund belly"). All the same parts are included and the distinctive belly tank. Assembly sequences of the kit are exactly the same as the C kit which was more than adequately reviewed by Bob DeMaio, I'll highlight the differences. However, the one thing that needs stated up front is that the instructions were really desperately in need of updating. This is a big kit with a lot of parts and the instructions are critical especially to non-reference laden builders. Cockpit part E-15, I found confusing. To put part D-15 in the position indicated you would have to invert it. This would put all the other locating points on the bottom! [Maybe it was me.]

The building the engine assemblies were no problem. Wheel assemblies, beautifully detailed, and they went together perfectly and into the nacelle shell no sweat! . I found it easier to put parts N-12, N 13 into the wing, [there is a slot in the nacelle half] just before putting the rest of it in. This avoids "tickling" it in place later.

The wings went together with an excellent fit and the whole thing mounted on that super strong spar, and in turn all fitted onto the fuselage like Cinderella's slippers! Could not have been better. The belly tank has locating pins on, that strange to say, have no "home". (Maybe they had to be drilled out?-Error in instructions?- ed). You could make a paper template of belly tank and transpose it onto the fuselage and drill the holes. I found it easier to sand off the pins and attach the tank with glue to the fuselage, being careful to align the aerial "hole" with the slot in the tank.

All in all, with careful attention and interpretation of the weak instructions, you will have an outstanding replica of an Me-110-1R-1. Definitely worth the effort. Thank you Dragon for the chance to review this kit.