I just finished a long-stashed USA Hobbies Bird Dog, and it was okay. Reliable reports are that this one is better, and if you're considering getting one, especially since the USAH kit isn't plentiful these days, the much newer Roden model will almost certainly be worth the difference. Forward Air Controller (FAC) support for ground troops, pioneered with Texans over Korea, came of age in Vietnam. FAC flying has been showcased in a couple of movies, but for all of us growing up in the '60s, the FAC was a central, truly heroic, adventurous figure in the U.S. presence over there. Any collection covering the Vietnam era must have a FAC plane.

I know that the L-19 wasnt much in size. Making it in 1/48th scale didnt help it much either. But this little Cessna was big in performance for which it was tasked. Not to mention the brave pilots that flew it over enemy territory day after day. These planes were indispensable in Vietnam locating and mapping anything. I was excited to get this plane until I started in on the assembly. Unfortunately Roden felt it necessary to make a small plane with too many very small parts. There were many instances were 2-3 parts could have easily been cast as one. In doing so, you would be able to handle it. One instance is the 5 piece engine cowling. It could have been 3 piece and much easier to work. Another trouble area was the plastic was so brittle that many little pieces broke just trying to pick them up. If these werent enough, Roden, as usual, has some of the worst decals in the industry. They came off the backer fine but didnt stick and rubbed off in pieces almost like ash. I spent a lot of time making new decals. Unfortunately I am a Vietnam era junkie and needed this plane for my collection. It took more time than it should but it is still acceptable for my collection. I would only recommend this kit to the experienced builder and someone familiar with Rodens products. Its a shame its such a bad kit for such a hard working and dependable airplane. See my photos.