Hello All,

As a surprise Christmas gift (that I didn't even ask for or hinted at, Tony Chin of Merit sent me this new kit, it arrived today.

I just received the Merit 1:48 early Elco 80-footer, I just did a cursory in box look at it. I was impressed with what I saw. It seems to be a very well engineered kit, I didn't see any flash, sink marks or anything like that. I liked the 20mm gun and the 50s too.

My only gripe(s) about the kit are as follows:

The color instructions. Like with their late war Elco, the color call-outs are Gold, Cocoa Brown, Steel, Olive Drab (2) and Tire Black.

The fins on the torpedoes look to be a little stubby, but I think if they were/are intended to be fitted inside the tubes, will that matter, inasmuch they won't be seen.

That said, I am blown away that they included the torpedoes for the tubes ... I'm sorry - but things like that impress me.

I didn't see the decals, but I'm sure they're great!

Just my two cents...

What I plan to do is have the kit done as the 190 "Jack'O'Diamonds" as she looked when she and the 191 were attacked by 30 to 40 Japanese aircraft. At that time, the late Alex Johnson and Wayne Traxel told me she had a 37mm M4 fitted where the original 20mm was located.

Those of you who have this kit or will buy this kit, by the looks of what in the box, should be happy with it.

Tim