Definitely a way to test your PE skills. Are you using a "bug" for the bends it just pe pliers?
I find these things like a love/hate thing. There such a pain to make, but at the same time, love it. I got the Batwing for Christmas, just haven't made it yet.
I flat out trashed my R2 one I got...
I mean that after I wrecked it while trying to put it together, I threw it in the trash.
Screw that! I don't have eyes that can handle putting these together!
I was actually looking into the G1 Optimus one but I don't have the temperament or thin fingers for this kind of thing lol