Submarines

There are few other submarines in the Technic line:

• B model of 8480 has motorised functions + light
• 8250/8299 is of similar size and comes with a pneumatic manipulator
• 42064 has a small side model with two manual function (ship propeller & grappler)
• (8286 & 8277 have B models tagged 'submarine' which I don't know. I would like to know if there is something worth mentioning.)

Building

(It's been a while since I built the submarine.)

From my experience the build process is a nice combination of structure, mechanisms and decorative elements.
I did not apply the stickers and I think they are not adding much to the model.

Colour

The model uses Sand Blue panels as - mainly - decorative parts to cover the submarines structure. The colour itself has been introduced in 2001 when there were technic 'bricks' = stud'ded' beams. Thus it can be regarded as new addition to the blue tone of the technic colour palette: Bright, Earth, Light (Royal), Medium. There is a metallic variant of sand blue used until 20 years ago.

The muted colour suits the model. Bright blue would not look as good. But I think yellow might have worked instead of sand blue. It would have been a reasonable colour for an underwater model because yellow can be easily spotted in deep water.

Functions

On the model you can operate the propellers and the grappler. Each of them has two two functions:

• Rotate propellers. All three will be controlled from the same knob.
  Depending on the gear setup you can set the to turn all the same direction or else.
• Change the elevation of all three propellers.
  This is done from the same knob - respectively stick - that controls the rotation by tilting it back and forth.
  There is no rudder to simulate left/right turns.
• The grappler folds back under the submarine's body. As it unfolds a rest is formed that supports the vehicle. The whole mechanism cleverly uses as little space as possible.
• The manipulator can be opined and closed. There is a small barrel that can be picked up and transported. It won't come loose when the grappler is folded back. (It can be - only - partially opened in the back position. Far enough to release the barrel).

The functions can be used best when the model is held with one/second hand from the top. Most other points are either not solid enough or will collide with one of the mechanical functions.

• The canopy opens by hinging down. A minifig can be easily placed in the large technic 'seat'.

Playability

As mentions the submarine rests with grappler in position or folded back. The model is best held from the top with one hand and operated with the second.

Similar to aircraft much is left to fantasy to move the submarine in 3D space (e.g. at water surface or below). There are for manual functions which I rate adequate for the sets price.