With the X-Wing, The Death Star trench run ranks as one of the most memorable sequences in Star Wars: A New Hope. In this scene, a squadron of small rebel fighters utilizes their speed and maneuverability to confront the Death Star, the remorseless face of the Empire, and ultimately destroys the moon-sized battle station with a one-in-a-million shot by Red 5, Luke Skywalker.
The movie scene has been one of my favorites since I was seven years old, and it still is to this day, even with the modernized Computer Graphics update.
I present to you three ships involved in that famous scene: the X-Wing in this post, and in following posts, Vader’s Advanced T.I.E. Fighter and an Imperial TIE Fighter.
I bought the Bandai version of these ships in 1:72 scale and found them easy to assemble and with great detail.
Luke’s X-Wing
Incom Corporation manufactured Luke Skywalker’s T-65B X-wing starfighter, featured in Star Wars: A New Hope. The ship, designated as AA-589, is 12.5 meters long and can reach a maximum speed of 1,050 km/h. It is armed with four laser cannons, two proton torpedo launchers, and carries six proton torpedoes. Luke Skywalker piloted this particular X-wing, one he flew during his time with the Rebellion and New Republic.
X-wings and TIE fighters have different strengths and weaknesses in combat. X-wings excel in versatility, performing various missions such as dogfighting and bombing runs, as shown during the attack on the Death Star. They feature shields for protection against enemy fire and come equipped with four laser cannons and two proton torpedo launchers. In contrast, TIE fighters boast superior speed and maneuverability compared to X-wings, but they lack shields and are lightly armed with only two laser cannons.
Comparison Between X-Wing and TIE Fighter
In a battle between an X-wing and a TIE fighter, the outcome would depend on the skill of the pilots and the specific circumstances of the engagement. However, in general, X-wings are better suited for combat missions that require more firepower and protection, while TIE fighters are better suited for missions that require speed and agility.
Bandai’s Red Squadron X-Wing Starfighter 1:72 scale model kit offers a highly detailed and accurate representation of the iconic starfighter from the Star Wars franchise. It features the following details:
- The model kit includes parts for two pilots (one standing and one sitting). And posable versions of R2-D2 and R5-D4, the astromech droids that accompany the X-Wing pilots.
- The model kit has opening and closing S-foils, which are the wings of the X-Wing that can change position depending on the flight mode. The S-foils can be opened for combat or closed for cruising.
- The kit comes with a display stand that can hold both the 1:72 and the 1:144 scale versions of the X-Wing. The “mini-me” 1:144 scale version can fit in the palm of your hand.
- This kit utilizes Bandai’s trademark color injection molding techniques. Which means that the parts are already colored and do not require additional painting. (Even though I did paint in some weathering). The model kit also offers water slide and sticker options for the decals.
They named the elite group of X-Wing pilots that participated in the climactic space battle involving the Death Star in the first Star Wars movie, The Red Squadron.
Time Taken to Build
The time required to assemble the model kit varies based on skill level, experience, and preferences. Typically, assembly takes around 10 to 15 minutes for the 1/72 scale X-Wing. 5 to 10 minutes for the 1/144 scale X-Wing. These estimates do not include painting, weathering, or decaling, which could significantly extend the time. While the kit includes color-injected parts, some builders may opt for additional detailing. Decals are provided as water slide and sticker options, requiring varying levels of skill and patience. Therefore, completion time ranges from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the desired level of customization. Personal enjoyment and satisfaction from the process often make the time well spent, with some individuals taking pleasure in spending hours on it.
Perfect Fit?
The fit was perfect, requiring no sanding. Painting was a breeze, similar to the 1:350 scale Millenium Falcon I had previously assembled. I utilized various online references from the studio models of the 1977 Star Wars film. I always desired the X-Wing from Kenner Toys but couldn’t afford it. Toys were, and still are, expensive. Now that I’m all grown up, I can build one, despite it being smaller than the toy from 40+ years ago.
Weathering of this craft was my favorite part. Getting the X-Wing all grimy was something I was not used to in any of my builds, except the previous one. I usually like my ships clean and pristine, but if this craft was in real life, it wouldn’t. It would be like that of the fighter jets in today’s military. Somewhat rusted and used. I used a wash of Testors gloss Black Metallic enamel to give the appearance of pieces of metal and oil. As well as a wash of Testors Rust on various areas gave that appearance of corrosion. I know there are specific washes you can buy, but I tend to use what I have laying around.
I hope you enjoyed this blog. Subscribe for the next installment of the Star Wars: The Final Trench Battle on the Death Star. This time featuring Vader’s Advance T.I.E. Fighter.
Started build on 12OCT20, completed 01JAN21.
- Please share and comment with anecdotes or suggestions.
- The links to Model Cars or Diecast Models Wholesale are affiliates.
- I receive a commission from qualified sales to support my modeling endeavors.
- Thank you for supporting a fellow modeler!
Feature Model Kit of the Week
MPC Star Wars: A New Hope X-Wing Fighter (Snap) 1:63 Scale Model Kit available 10% off with my code MC10POFF at ModelCars.com.
This model kit is NOT the Bandai kit I used to build. But it is still an X-Wing fighter in a larger scale.
CLASSIC STAR WARS FIGHTER: One of the most recognizable fighters in the Star Wars pantheon is the X-wing piloted by the original film’s hero, Luke Skywalker. He is at the helm of this model with R2-D2 filling in as co-pilot.
NO FORCE NEEDED: This model kit from MPC features snap assembly and is ideal for beginner modelers. It includes both a sticker sheet for young modelers and water-slide decals for experienced hobbyists.
RETURNING TO WHERE IT ALL BEGAN: This model kit is the first to return from the original Star Wars model kit brand, MPC. Vintage graphics are used on the packaging.
QUICK SPECS: 1/64 scale. 8” long. 30 parts. Injected in white plastic with clear parts. Glue and paint not required. Skill level 2, Ages 10+
THE PERFECT GIFT: Don’t know what to get your dad for his day? Or maybe you have an avid hobbyist or collector in your life. This model kit makes an ideal gift for any occasion!
Promote Your Blog with Me for FREE.
All of you who wish to promote your blogs may do so. I shall provide a link to your blogs or link to any article in your blog – for free- on my Scale Model Making Page. So, feel free to contact me if you have any blog which relates to the topic of scale modeling and the like.
Affiliate Disclosure: I am a participant in the affiliate advertising programs for ModelCars.com, DiecastModelsWholesale.com and Temu. These programs are designed to provide a means for me to earn fees by linking to these affiliated sites.
Leave a Reply