Fisher Model and Pattern 1/32 Ryan PT-20/STM-2 Kit First Look
by Michael Benolkin
| Date of Review | April 2014 | Manufacturer | Fisher Model and Pattern |
|---|---|---|---|
| Subject | Ryan PT-20/STM-2 | Scale | 1/32 |
| Kit Number | 3213 | Primary Media | Resin, Photo-Etch |
| Pros | Another magnificent resin release - no casting blocks on the larger parts, no pinholes, near-perfect fit! | Cons | Nothing noted |
| Skill Level | Intermediate | MSRP (USD) | $149.95 |
First Look
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In the mid-1930s, the Ryan Aeronautical Company developed a low-wing monoplane trainer powered by the in-line four-cylinder Menasco engine. These aircraft entered service in civilian flight schools around the United States though the Netherlands East Indies (NEI) bought a number of the aircraft for military service. The USAAC also evaluated the Menasco-powered Ryan initially as the PT-16 and procured 30 as the PT-20. Many of these airframes were upgraded with the five-cylinder Kinner radial engine that would power the follow-on PT-22.
Fisher Models and Pattern has released two Ryan trainers in 1/32 scale, the PT-22 and this PT-20/STM-2. While they look similar in appearance, these are two completely different kits with no shared parts. Cast in light gray resin and including one fret of photo-etched details, this kit has the beautiful detail common to Fisher Model kits.
Among the features and options in this kit:
- Nicely detailed cockpits
- Choice of spatted landing gear or floats
- Choice of engine cowlings
- Positionable elevators
- Positionable ailerons
- Positionable rudder
- Positionable flaps
The fuselage is molded in halves and delivered as you see in the image above, the fit is very nice. This won't be a good project for a new resin modeler as you'll be required to assemble the model with cyano and fill with cyano or a good putty to achieve a smooth surface for trainer colors. There is also the need to rig this aircraft which is also not for the faint of heart.
Markings are provided for three subjects:
- PT-20, 62, Ryan School of Aeronautics, San Diego 1941
- STM-2, A50-12, General Recon School, Cressy, Australia, 1942
- STM-S2, A50-28, 10 EFTS, Australia, 1942
This is another nice kit from Fisher Model and Pattern and fills another void on the scale flightline for both a historic trainer and a popular warbird (when you can find one).
You can get more information on this and other kits from the Fisher Model and Pattern website.