Accuracy…
The overall shape of the fuselage and wings is good, accurately representing the Type and Mk.Ia. The fuselage and wings when offered up to the limited 1:72nd scale plans in the Aero Detail guide match well and I could see nothing that looks ‘wrong’ after carefully looking at the main components, so far, so good. The unique ‘gull-wing’ shape of the underside below the cockpit has been captured perfectly. This isn’t always the case with Spitfire kits.
Nice touches are definitely the detailed wheel hubs and bulged tyres as well as a separate rudder. The latter option will offer just enough variety in ‘look’ to make the final model interesting and varied. The wheel wells are also detailed and look scale-depth so that’s a plus.
The elevators have rib detail that looks slightly overdone, standing too proud of the surrounding surface. This will be easily resolved with a little light sanding with a buffer.
The canopy is moulded in one piece. It is very clear and features the armoured windshield typical of the type. It’s a shame that it isn’t a little thinner then cutting it and trying to pose the canopy open could possibly have been an option.
The instructions are clear and logical. Interestingly and perhaps confusingly, an option to attach a stand is shown, but no stand is included but may be available elsewhere in the Airfix range.
The decals are good quality and in register. Colour looks accurate and opacity also good. It’s a shame that Airfix has gone for such a predictable option – DW-K. A famous and much photographed machine, but another serial from a different aircraft would have appealed more to this reviewer. In addition, this aircraft didn’t have the large underwing red/white/blue roundel applied in July 1940 and that’s another slight disappointment as the roundels are such a massive part of the look of Battle of Britain Spitfires. To contra this, it’s great to see the large yellow border to the fuselage roundel and big grey squadron codes – very BofB – great stuff!
Overall then?
I’m impressed – generally Airfix is definitely going in the right direction. Their 1:48th scale Bf1-09E is a very high class product. This new Spitfire is definitely getting towards that standard, given the limitations in the smaller scale. The plastic finish and panel lining is an asset to me and no doubt, sadly, there will be the usual rivet-counters that’ll know this new release. Well, if you read this review again I hope that you’ll find it balanced and objective – always our aim with Here Now reviews in SMN. If you like the scale and Spitfire too – Christmas just came early! Speaking of which… now you know what to ask for to fill that stocking…
Geoff C.
And check this out from the manufacturer’s website…