The AMT/Ertl Millennium Falcon was first released in 1977, and has been reissued periodically over the years. The sample in this article was released in 2005 by Racing Champions, after RC2 had purchased AMT/Ertl and acquired the original molds. No new tooling was done – these are straight reproductions using the original 1970’s-vintage molds.

The parts were molded in light gray styrene and have fairly thick details. The kit has some sink marks and ejector pin holes that will have to be corrected during the build-up. Overall detailing is very basic.

This kit has a host of problems, mostly with inaccurate parts as compared to the filming model. Among other things, the side walls are way too high, giving the Falcon an almost “pregnant” appearance when viewed from the side. Builders should carefully check their reference materials before starting this kit. There are multiple websites that have information about the kit and how to correct the inaccuracies.

If the builder chooses to invest in them, there are several aftermarket detailing sets that correct the issues with the kit. The sets are available on eBay, and from sellers such as Federation Models and Starship Modeler.

Review by: Rich “Lonewolf” Dula

Entry created: December 18, 2010