Metal EarthMMS078 Metal Model - Apollo Lunar Module

This is my first attempt at one of these kits and that was my mistake. Definitely worth trying a simpler kit if you have nevr done one before so you can get used to the instructions and the techniques required to build one. I had a couple of peices break because I miss understood which way they were meant to be bent and trying to bend them back made them snap. Luckily it was possible to connect them to other parts and then hot glue them in place. As I said this was a learning experience for me.Ignoring the issues I had which were of my own making and inexperience the model is very detail and the final result is impressive. There is a surprising amount of detail and the etching adds to that too. From that point of view I am really pleased with it.You do need a few tools to make the model incling some snips, tweezers and different types of pliers. You also need good lighting and possibly a magnifying glass (unless your eyesight is exceptional) to see some of the tiny holes for the parts. Took me about 5 hours to make and was challenging but enjoyable. May try this one again to get bettr results but will also try some of the others too.

As with all these kits a little patience is needed but results are very pleasing.A little time spent reading the assembly diagrams before starting and planning the construction is well worth doing.I have seen some comments saying that the instructions could be clearer, while I agree they could, I think part of the fun is trying to work things out for yourself. Think more puzzle than simple construction kit.Some of the tabs are a little tricky to get at when trying to fit them to parts that you have bent to shape. In these cases, I find you get a better fit if you fit them first and then fold the component to its final shape. (others have made the same observation)If I find myself struggling to fit some of the smaller parts, washing my hands in very cold water before attempting to fit them again does the trick.I am sure someone in the medical profession could explain the process behind this, me, I just know it works!

Not for beginners, I broke it before even getting started, due to big finger. Great if you are used to this kind of modelling, but I’m too heavy handed.But from the pieces I did complete, I wish I was less heavy handed, as I could see what it would look like finished. I couldn’t give a five star as I didn’t complete it, so couldn’t see the finished item, but I expect it would have looked amazing.The instruction aren’t that clear, but this is possible due this being my first one.

Do not buy unless you have three hands and the patience of a saint. Supper glue needed at times as the tabs are to small.The scale is too small as well.

Really nice model once it's done but probably not something you give as a gift to someone without the time to complete it.Sprue cutters with good quality, fine tweezers are a must and some skill in making models as the parts are delicate with the metal being only 0.2mm thick. The metal is good quality however but be aware there are parts that need bending that are only 7mm x 5mm!The final model is about 60mm high (including the antennae) and 60mm wide (from foot to foot).Instructions are okay but you need to read ahead to make sure you are bending the right way as some of the metal parts on the sheets are part-textured on one side for details (such as the hatch door). Because the metal is so thin you really don't want to bend it more than once or it will eventually snap. Parts fit fairly well but may need a bit of persuasion (keeping in mind you could easily crush the whole model in your hand).Definitely something you want to show off and If you have the patience and finesse, go for it.

Hard to do with adult size hands

I have built a few of these models now but this is the trickiest one I have come across so far. There are a lot more small parts and the construction of the side pods is awkward, you need three hands to attach them! An illuminated magnifying glass comes in handy with thisCompleted the first stage which is more complex, the landing stage should be simpler.The model does look great though and is cleverly executed.Update April 2020.Some 5 years after I built this I nearly bought it again as the picture on the listing shows it complete with the command module. To clarify, you will receive the lunar lander only!

A great kit for those that enjoy building small, precise models.Miniature side cutters used to remove pieces from the metal sheet, and assembly done with a pair of needle nose pliers and some tweezers.Bending and shaping the round pieces was probably the most difficult part, the kit comes with a few spare satellite cones in case you break one.My first kit of this style, and took about 7 hours spread over 4 sessions.Really satisfied with the result.