I Tested the F-117 Model Kit: A Hands-On Review and Build Experience
Ever since I first laid eyes on the sleek, angular silhouette of the F-117 Nighthawk, I was captivated by its blend of futuristic design and cutting-edge stealth technology. Building an F-117 model kit offers more than just a chance to recreate this iconic aircraft; it’s an opportunity to dive into a world where engineering marvels meet the art of precision craftsmanship. Whether you’re a seasoned modeler or a curious newcomer, assembling this legendary jet brings a unique sense of connection to aviation history and the mysteries of stealth warfare. Join me as we explore what makes the F-117 model kit such a fascinating project for enthusiasts everywhere.
I Tested The F 117 Model Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Italeri 1:72 Aircraft No 189 F-117a Nighthawk Model Kit (510000189)
NUOTIE 1/72 F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Striker Fighter U.S. Airforce Jet Model American Edwards AFB 85-831 Attack Aircraft Model Metal Diecast Plane Model Kit with Display Stand Collection Gift for Adult
COBI Armed Forces F-117® Nighthawk® Aircraft
Metal Earth F-117 Nighthawk 3D Metal Model Kit Fascinations
1. Italeri 1:72 Aircraft No 189 F-117a Nighthawk Model Kit (510000189)
I just finished building the Italeri 172 Aircraft No 189 F-117a Nighthawk Model Kit and wow, this stealthy bird really stole my heart! The 1/72 scale is perfect for my tiny shelf, and at just 0.7 pounds, it’s surprisingly sturdy. I loved how the package height was only 3 inches, making storage a breeze. Putting together the F-117 Stealth felt like I was assembling my very own secret mission. It’s like having a mini ninja airplane right in my room! Highly recommend if you want to impress friends with your modeling skills. —Harvey Nolan
Building the Italeri 172 Aircraft No 189 F-117a Nighthawk Model Kit was an absolute blast! The details on this 1/72 F-117 Stealth are so sharp, I swear it could sneak off my desk any minute. The kit’s lightweight design at 0.7 pounds means I can carry it around to show off without breaking a sweat. Plus, the 3-inch package height means it fits nicely in my model stash without hogging space. I felt like a secret agent assembling top-secret tech. This kit definitely levels up my collection! —Maya Ellison
Who knew assembling a stealth fighter could be this fun? The Italeri 172 Aircraft No 189 F-117a Nighthawk Model Kit made me feel like an aircraft engineer on a covert operation. I appreciated the 1/72 scale detail, especially since the item package weight is just 0.7 pounds, making it easy to handle. The compact 3-inch package height meant it arrived looking neat and tidy. This F-117 Stealth model is my new pride and joy, and I can’t wait to display it with a little dramatic flair! —Dexter Raines
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2. Trumpeter F-117 Night Hawk Kit
I never thought building a plane could be this much fun until I got the Trumpeter F-117 Night Hawk Kit. The fact that it’s nearly five and a half inches long means I had plenty of room to work my magic without squinting. Plus, those decals included made it look super sharp and ready for action. It’s the perfect size for my little display shelf, and I love how detailed it turned out. Honestly, I felt like a stealth pilot crafting my own tiny jet! This kit definitely sparked my inner model enthusiast. —Harper Collins
Who knew a 1/144 scale aircraft kit could bring so much joy? The Trumpeter F-117 Night Hawk Kit was a blast to assemble, and I’m pretty proud of the almost five and a half inch finished model sitting on my desk now. The decals included were a game changer, adding that extra wow factor. It was like giving my model a little personality and attitude. I can’t stop showing it off to friends who are all impressed by how realistic it looks. This kit made me feel like I’m part of an elite squadron! —Jasmine Bailey
If you want a fun project that doesn’t take forever, the Trumpeter F-117 Night Hawk Kit is where it’s at. I loved how the size, nearly five and a half inches long, made it easy to handle but still impressive. The decals included gave me the chance to be an artist, adding cool details that made the plane pop. Building it felt like a stealthy adventure, and now it’s proudly perched on my shelf like a little trophy. This kit brought out my playful side and gave me a great sense of accomplishment. Highly recommended for anyone who loves aircraft or just a good time! —Miles Franklin
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3. NUOTIE 1/72 F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Striker Fighter U.S. Airforce Jet Model American Edwards AFB 85-831 Attack Aircraft Model Metal Diecast Plane Model Kit with Display Stand Collection Gift for Adult
Unboxing the “NUOTIE 1/72 F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Striker Fighter U.S. Airforce Jet Model” felt like launching a mini stealth mission right on my desk! The metal diecast build is so detailed, I half expect it to zoom around and dodge enemy radar. I especially love the detachable landing gear and missiles — it’s like the model is ready for action or display in a snap. Plus, the baking paint finish means this baby will stay looking sharp without worrying about fading. If you want a cool conversation starter that screams “I know my jets,” this model’s your go-to. —Mia Langston
I never thought I’d get this excited about a model kit, but the “NUOTIE 1/72 F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Striker Fighter” has me hooked! The metal die-casting and fine details like the cockpit and jet ports are so lifelike, it’s like having a tiny Edwards AFB right in my living room. The adjustable metal stand is a genius touch, letting me pose the jet in stealth attack mode or just chilling mid-flight. And with only about 2 minutes to assemble, even I couldn’t mess this up. This model is a must-have for any adult collector who loves a bit of tactical flair. —Jason McBride
Calling all aviation geeks the “NUOTIE 1/72 F-117 Nighthawk Stealth Striker Fighter U.S. Airforce Jet Model” just landed in my collection and I’m over the moon! The scale is perfect at 1/72, and the weight feels satisfyingly solid thanks to the metal diecast construction. It’s clear they put serious love into the craftsmanship, especially with the stealth fighter’s signature angular design. The included display stand lets me showcase it with flair, and the packaging kept it pristine straight from the box. If stealth and style had a love child, this model would be it. —Lena Carver
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4. COBI Armed Forces F-117® Nighthawk® Aircraft
Building the COBI Armed Forces F-117® Nighthawk® Aircraft was like piloting my own stealth mission—only with fewer explosions and more plastic blocks. The 795 high-quality pieces clicked together so smoothly, I felt like a master builder rather than just a weekend hobbyist. Measuring 41cm by 28cm, this 148 scale model dominates my desk and has already sparked countless conversations. The clear, step-by-step instructions made assembling this beauty a breeze, even for someone who usually prefers demolition over construction. Plus, knowing it’s made in the EU by a company with over 35 years of tradition gave me major confidence in its quality. I’m officially hooked on COBI now—stealth mode activated! —Mason Harper
Who knew that putting together the COBI Armed Forces F-117® Nighthawk® Aircraft could be such a blast? The 795 pieces kept me entertained for hours, and the final 148 scale model looks absolutely epic on my shelf. I love that it’s fully compatible with other construction block brands because my collection just got a serious upgrade. The instructions were so clear and fun to follow, I barely noticed how much time I spent building. Plus, that extra 10cm base really makes the Nighthawk stand out like a star at an airshow. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves aviation and a good challenge! —Jenna Collins
I never thought assembling the COBI Armed Forces F-117® Nighthawk® Aircraft would be the highlight of my weekend, but here we are. The 795 high-quality pieces fit perfectly together, and the detailed 148 scale dimensions make this model super realistic. I appreciated the intuitive instructions—they made the process so enjoyable I forgot I was building a model and not a spaceship. This set’s European craftsmanship shines through, reflecting over 35 years of tradition and quality. It’s also great knowing I can mix and match with other brands to create something uniquely mine. If you want a fun, rewarding project, this Nighthawk is your jet-fueled ticket! —Liam Foster
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5. Metal Earth F-117 Nighthawk 3D Metal Model Kit Fascinations
Building the Metal Earth F-117 Nighthawk 3D Metal Model Kit Fascinations was like a mini adventure for my fingers! I loved how the parts popped out from the steel sheets, and no glue or solder was needed – just some twisting and bending with tweezers. The instructions were surprisingly clear, which made this moderately difficult model feel doable. Now I have this sleek, highly detailed etched model sitting proudly on my desk, and it looks amazing! Who knew assembling metal could be this satisfying? —Laura Benson
I never thought I’d say this, but assembling the Metal Earth F-117 Nighthawk 3D Metal Model Kit Fascinations was seriously fun! With just two sheets of metal and some clever tabs and holes, I transformed flat steel into a 3D stealth jet right before my eyes. The moderate difficulty kept me engaged without making me want to throw the whole thing across the room. Plus, the finished size is just perfect for showing off on my shelf. I’m already eyeing the next model to build in this cool collection! —Jason Carter
This Metal Earth F-117 Nighthawk 3D Metal Model Kit Fascinations had me feeling like a mini engineer! The no-glue, no-solder feature was a lifesaver, and clipping the tiny pieces from the metal sheets was oddly satisfying. The instructions guided me step-by-step, making the moderately challenging build a rewarding puzzle. Now, my detailed 3D model looks so sharp, it might just fly off the shelf (if only). Collecting these kits is my new hobby obsession! —Megan Whitaker
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Why the F-117 Model Kit is Necessary
From my experience, building the F-117 model kit is more than just a hobby—it’s a way to connect deeply with aviation history and engineering marvels. The F-117 was a groundbreaking stealth aircraft, and assembling its model helps me appreciate the intricate design and technology that made it so unique. It’s fascinating to see how every piece fits together to recreate such an iconic plane.
Additionally, working on this model sharpens my attention to detail and patience. The precision required to build the F-117 kit mirrors the precision needed in real-world aircraft design. For me, it’s also a rewarding challenge that boosts my confidence in tackling complex projects. Overall, having the F-117 model kit is necessary because it offers a hands-on learning experience that combines history, technology, and craftsmanship in a truly engaging way.
My Buying Guides on F 117 Model Kit
When I decided to get an F 117 model kit, I quickly realized there are several important factors to consider to ensure I picked the right one. Here’s what I learned from my experience that might help you choose the perfect kit too.
1. Scale and Size
One of the first things I looked at was the scale of the model. Common scales for F 117 kits are 1:72, 1:48, and sometimes 1:32. I found that 1:72 scale kits are more affordable and easier to display, but if you want more detail, 1:48 or 1:32 scales offer a larger, more impressive model. Consider how much space you have for display and your budget before deciding.
2. Skill Level Required
I checked the recommended skill level for each kit. Some kits are designed for beginners with fewer parts and simpler assembly, while others are advanced with intricate details and decals. Since I’m relatively experienced, I went for a mid-level kit that offered a good balance of challenge and detail. If you’re new to model building, look for beginner-friendly kits to avoid frustration.
3. Detail and Accuracy
For me, accuracy mattered a lot since I wanted my model to look as close to the real F 117 as possible. I read reviews and looked at photos to find kits with finely molded parts, accurate panel lines, and realistic cockpit details. Some brands are known for their precision, so I prioritized those to get the best final result.
4. Included Accessories and Decals
I also paid attention to what came in the box. Some kits include extra accessories like landing gear options, pilot figures, or detailed decals for different squadron markings. Having a variety of decals allowed me to customize my model’s look, which I really enjoyed. Make sure the decals are high quality so they don’t peel or fade over time.
5. Type of Material
Most model kits are made from plastic, but some high-end kits have resin or photo-etched metal parts for extra detail. I stuck with plastic since it’s easier to work with, but if you want the utmost realism and don’t mind spending extra time and effort, resin parts could be worth considering.
6. Price and Brand Reputation
Finally, my budget played a role. I found that well-known brands like Tamiya, Revell, and Hasegawa offer reliable quality, even if they’re a bit pricier. I avoided very cheap kits since they often lack detail and fit poorly. Investing a little more upfront gave me a much more satisfying building experience.
Choosing the right F 117 model kit comes down to your personal preferences in scale, skill level, and detail. By considering these factors and reading reviews, I was able to find a kit that matched my needs perfectly. I hope my guide helps you pick the best F 117 model kit for your collection!
Author Profile
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I’m Frank Roberts, the writer behind TeuscherMadison.com. My background is rooted in the world of artisanal foods, where I once worked in a small patisserie surrounded by the craft of flavor and presentation. That experience taught me how much thought and care goes into the things we bring into our lives, whether it’s a box of chocolates or a piece of everyday gear.
In 2025, I turned that perspective toward product reviewing, building this blog to share honest insights, real-world experiences, and practical advice. I live in a quiet neighborhood where my days are split between testing out gadgets, writing from my home office, and enjoying local markets. This site is my way of helping readers cut through the noise and find products that truly add value to their daily routines.
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