Initial assessment
This looks like a very nice boxing containing sprues that date back to 2001 and the ICM kit. New decals are included as is the case with all the current and recently re-released models by Revell.
Sprues and more sprues
The P-51C is a fairly straightforward aircraft in terms of design and kit layout, light grey sprue frames are included and the best thing to do is show them to you here:
So, what do you think? Well, overall I’m pretty impressed with what’s inside, especially given the relatively low price of the package – I’ve already seen this boxing available on at least one model shop website for under £10.00 GBP ☺. The cockpit looks ok for detail – basic, but not bad. You can finish your model with the canopy open and so much will be visible. You get decals for the main instrument panel although raised detail is moulded too on the clear part so you can take your pick as to which way to go – paint the panel or add the decal.
Highlights at a glance:
- Subject choice – very welcome as the alternative kits can be pricey
- Choice of prop blades
- Panel line detail – sharp, recessed and no too deep in this scale
- Cockpit detail apart from the seat
- Raised detail on side instrument panels with decals for main panels. I think the latter will work very well
- Undercarriage looks accurate and subtle, like the original – nice hub detail
- Weighted or un-weighted tyres
- Choice of exhaust stacks
- Positionable flaps
- Drop tanks and a pair of bombs is included
- Clarity of clear glazed parts
- Decal options – two varied choices.
Things to watch and take extra care with:
- A lot of excess flash on the parts, especially the delicate parts, so care will be needed when cleaning up the parts and removing mould seams
- Very faint representation of the seat harness moulded into the seat, so you’ll have to scratch some from masking tape or metal foil or go for the etched brass option
Instructions
These are in classic Revell style with 27 exploded stages.
Decals
You do get a seat harness on the decal sheet, but I don’t think that this is very convincing in 1:48 scale. You could apply the decal to some metal foil and that could work?
Option 1 – North American Mustang Mk.III of No 315 Squadron, Coolham, England June 1944
Option 2 – North American Mustang Mk.III of No 213 Squadron, Leverano, Italy July 1944
Decals quality is pretty good as mentioned, the colours are solid with decent opacity and markings are in register. A good range of stencils is also provided, so no need to go to for aftermarket supplies here.
Accuracy
From what I can see the shape certainly looks fine from most of the angles I have tried. After a dry-fit and taping this is unmistakably an accurate-looking P-51C Mustang Mk.III.
Conclusion
Well I hope that this Here Now in-box review says enough for you to make your buying decision. The package is clearly well worth the money (significantly cheaper than kits from other manufacturers) in my opinion and there is going to be a lot of modelling fun and pleasure for your money..
Recommended
Geoff C.
SMN Quick summary Star rating out of 5
| FEATURE | STAR RATING (out of five) |
|---|---|
| Quality of moulding | ***/**** |
| Accuracy | **** |
| Level of detail | **** |
| Instructions | *** |
| Decals | **** |
| Subject choice | **** |
| Overall | **** |