So, I decided to switch to 1/72 scale for my model airplanes, and build them with retracted landing gear and clear plastic circles for propellers (yes, to hang them from my bedroom ceiling like a little boy.) I was working on a MiG 3, but the kit lacked a pilot so I moved on to my next plane (since that time, TMPer Bashytubits has 3D printed one for me so I will be able to continue on it once this story reaches it's conclusion.)
I had ordered a TBF Avenger by Airfix via ebay (for very cheap, I might add.) The box and instructions are probably older than I am! They have that wonderful "old book" smell.
It really didn't bother me that most of the parts were already off the sprue. It looked like they were all there. I had a lot of fun painting up the undetailed interior and the three crew figures (blocked colors, shading wash, highlights, and then one of them can't be seen anyway.) All went well and I got the fuselage assembled, canopy and turret and lower gun window… everything goes great.
And then it turns out the landing strut cover for the right wing is missing. One part, but critical if the plane is being viewed largely from the underside.
One part. And, as luck would have it, a flat part. An easily replicated part with a piece of plastic sheet.
So we'll see how it goes the next time I have a Model Airplane Night.