Started back in 2013, finally finished it late 2015. Had several issues with finding nose checker decals that actually fit the Tamiya 1/32 kit (Zotz has the nose decals perfectly, Eagle Cal has the wingtip and BBD decals) but had a lot of fun putting it all together.
Mostly used Tamiya and Model Master acrylics (and metalizers for the exhaust panels). Eduard contributed a lot of the cockpit detail.
I love the figure included with the kit. The goggle strap is actually a spare seatbelt.
The Zotz decals fit the nose beautifully, and take just a little bit of work. You would never know the nose actually comes off in four different pieces!
I took a few liberties with colours (wood floor in the cockpit, copper coloured radiator piping) just to add some color.
I know a lot of people complain that being able to remove the landing gear is gimmicky, but I like being able to show the plane 'in flight'.
And here with the gear down. The drop tank plumbing is actually just solid core electrical wire painted black.
Top down view:
Head on
This is a great kit, lots of fun to build, and very easy to add a phenominal amount of detail to as well.
On the bench: Academy 1/72 B-17G 'Blue Hen Chick'; 1/48 Tamiya Mustang III; Kitty Hawk 1/32 P-39.
Completed: 1/48 Tamiya P-51D Mustang - 'Show Bird', 1/32 Dragon P-51D Flying Tigers 'What if'; 1/32 Tamiya P-51D Big Beautiful Doll
Group build:1/48 Tamiya Mustang III; 1/48 Tamiya P-51D Show Bird
