1:72 P-40B/C Hawk-81

Curtiss P-40B/C Hawk-81 1:72 - Hobby Boss

An injection-molded plastic kit of the early version of the American fighter Curtiss P-40B/C (factory designation Hawk-81) in 1:72 scale from Hobby Boss. The model belongs to the easy assembly line with a lower part count, an engraved surface, a metal propeller shaft, one-piece glazing and decals. Thanks to its simplicity it suits beginning modelers too.

The real subject

The P-40B/C was an early version of the celebrated Curtiss P-40, known with the Royal Air Force as the Tomahawk. Compared with the later Warhawk (the E version) it had a shorter nose and lighter armament combining machine guns in the nose and in the wings. It was precisely these machines with the characteristic shark mouth on the nose that the American Volunteer Group known as the Flying Tigers made famous in the fighting over China and Burma; they also served with the RAF in North Africa in 1941.

Building and painting tips

Separate the parts with a sharp knife and glue them with thin liquid cement for plastic. Although it is an easy-build kit, the cockpit will be improved by a wash and by careful seating of the one-piece canopy. Mask the glazing for clean frames. Spray the camouflage with an airbrush over primer; leave the striking shark mouth for a smooth gloss base and complete it with a decal or with careful spraying.

Who the model is for

• For beginning modelers and for a quick build
• For fans of the early version of the P-40 and of the Flying Tigers
• For lovers of machines with a shark mouth on the nose
• For collectors of Second World War fighters in 1:72 scale

The model is supplied unassembled and unpainted. Glue, paints and accessories are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.