In the last two decades, Star Wars modellers has been very lucky. We are given the choice of three version of the famous YT-1300 Freighter aka Han Solo’s highly modified ship.
When Finemolds were given access to the studio model, they modelled it after the smaller 32″ ESB version. Their detailed model (apart from the parallel mandibles for some) literally put them on the map and was considered the Holy Grail. A decade later, Bandai with their proven scale modeling technology, was given the 5 feet ANH version and the Crown went to them.
However, for those not familiar with Studio Scale models where scale is an approximation, to them, Bandai’s Falcon was slightly bigger. However, for me, this is not the issue. Both models command quite a hefty price. But what was more important was, which version of the Falcon would I like to build? Details-wise, I suppose, Bandai would win hands down.
I for one, would like to build the Finemolds version which is from the ESB. This means, I can have spot downlights and red lights all around. The Finemolds model came out around the time when Original Trilogy was given the Special Edition treatment and for the very first time, we get to see the canon version of the engines. Alas, it was too late for Finemolds as they have already designed their own version, making them inaccurate. This is not an issue for me because after a friend had the engine parts cast as clear, the result was so beautiful.
Below are a rough comparison of each of the models.
MPC/ERTL (1979)
Scale: 1/78?
465mm or about 18″1/4 long
Based on the Empire Strikes Back
Bandai PG (2017)
Scale: 1/72
482mm or about 19″ long
Modeled off the 5′ studio model in ANH configuration.
Finemolds (2006)/ Revell (2015)
Scale 1/72
457mm or about 18″ long
Modeled off the 32″ studio model in ESB configuration.
