Montex 1/32 scale Commonwealth Boomerang

Kit: No. RMA3201
Scale: 1/32
Manufacturer: Montex Plastic Model Club, www.montex-mask.com
Price: $159.95
Comments: Resin, 228 parts (2 cast-metal, 5 vacuum-formed, 47 photoetched-metal), painting masks
Pros: Great subject; includes CD with reference and model construction images
Cons: Instructions could be better
Issue Published: February 2008

This new Commonwealth Boomerang is an interesting subject for a 1/32 scale kit. Also interesting is that this is the first kit from the Polish company Montex, which previously specialized in masks for painting.

Examining the box's contents, I found a well-produced, nonplastic model kit. Most of the parts are resin, supported by photoetched-metal, cast-metal, and vacuum-formed parts. A bonus is a CD showing the parts breakdown and photos of actual Boomerang airframes.

I examined the parts and instructions carefully before starting construction. As well-made as the parts appeared, this type of kit - a short-run, nonstandard venture - always requires careful planning.

Construction began in the cockpit cage. The thin parts have a lot of flex in them, so test-fit them carefully. The instruction diagrams were not clear in this area, and I found myself repeatedly going to the CD to figure out what went where.

The engine is highly detailed and builds up with separate parts for both rows of cylinders.

The wiring harness is provided in photoetched metal. It was difficult to cut out and didn't look convincing; I would recommend substituting thin wire.

The completed engine attaches to the firewall via engine bearers - just like the real deal! Because all the parts are resin, I was concerned the weight of the engine would be too much for the bearer arms. It turned out OK.
It is critical that the engine and cockpit cage all line up properly to fit into the fuselage. If they don't, you will have a problem closing the fuselage and having the engine thrust line centered.

I found the wings were nicely designed; they are assembled from seven components. As there are top and bottom parts, filling and sanding the seams was required (a common task throughout this kit).

I ran into problems attaching the completed wing to the fuselage. I made many dry runs to test the fit, yet still ran into alignment problems. There was a large gap at the lower front, where the fuselage and wing met, that needed a lot of super glue and sanding to fill and smooth out.

All the flying surfaces are separate parts, allowing a more candid pose if desired.

The canopy components are vacuum-formed, and only one copy is provided. I took great care in cutting out the parts!

I painted my model with Hobby Color and Tamiya acrylic paints.

As Montex is known for paint masks, this (instead of decals) was the chosen medium for the markings. Three aircraft are provided for. A decal is included for the scheme that had nose art. This was my first experience with painting markings with masks, and I was quite pleased - it was easier than I expected.

The model looks good compared to photos. My primary reference was Classic Warbirds No. 7 (Ventura Publications). The walkaround CD in the kit was invaluable for detailed views of the Boomerang.

The Montex Boomerang required 42 hours to complete. Key to this model are patience and allowing enough time to work through the construction. Experienced modelers will enjoy building this interesting 1/32 scale kit.