1:72 Model Set P-51D Mustang

P-51D Mustang in 1:72 scale from Revell, Model Set edition

An injection-molded plastic kit of the famous American P-51D Mustang fighter in 1:72 scale from the German manufacturer Revell. The set comes in the Model Set edition: alongside the sprues with the parts, the decals and the instructions the manufacturer adds the basic paints, a brush and cement for polystyrene. It is therefore a box for someone who is starting out and does not want to work out what else to buy for the model.

The real subject

The P-51D Mustang was a single-engine fighter with a liquid-cooled V12 engine, a teardrop canopy over the cabin and a large internal fuel tank. It was the range that made a legend of it: Mustangs were able to escort bomber formations over Germany and back, which earlier types could not do. The D version is the most widespread and best known form of the type, with six machine guns in the wings and the characteristic dorsal fin on the later machines.

Building and painting tips

Older molds tend to leave noticeable sprue nubs, so sand the mating surfaces back and fill them where needed. Paint the cabin before the fuselage is closed. The unpainted aluminum surfaces typical of many Mustangs come out on a smooth gloss base, so smooth the surface carefully before the metallic paint. Stir the metallic paint thoroughly before use, as the pigment settles to the bottom, and spray it last of all, because it is hard to mask and to overspray.

Who the model is for

• Beginners who want everything for the build in one box
• Collectors of Second World War fighters in 1:72 scale
• Modelers who want to try metallic paint on a small model
• Buyers looking for a gift box for a beginning modeler

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. In the Model Set edition the basic paints, a brush and glue are included in the package; other accessories are not.