This 1/48th Monogram P-51B Mustang is another very early model from 1967. My kit release was from 1973 and the kit apparently lives on as a Revell release after being reworked to give it additional details and engraved panel lines.
Notable Kit Features:
Sparse cockpit details with seated pilot provided
Simplified kit with few parts
Standard (bird cage) one-piece canopy and Malcolm hood provided
Shrouded exhausts
Drop tanks provided
Wheels have (proper early style) diamond tread pattern
Build Inspiration:
Back in my early days of model making, the build inspiration was heavily influenced by what was on sale at my local model shop. As my local shop often had second-hand kits as well as new ones, I would always check out the bargain bin first to see if anything caught my attention. After picking up this 1/48th Monogram P-51B Mustang kit I came across a decal set for Maj. Richard Eugene Turner's "Short-Fuse Sallee" which I was inspired to buy to give the model a bit different look.
P-51B, s/n 43-12434, of the USAF 356th FS, based at Boxted between 11 Feb and 3 Mar 1944
Heads-Up Report:
Although this 1/48th Monogram P-51B Mustang was a very rudimentary kit when it was first released, the moulds were later updated by Revell to add details to the cockpit and radio as well as engraving the panel lines.
Left and right side nose vents are not depicted on kit
All control surfaces are fixed in the up (neutral) position
Canopy designed to be closed (Malcolm hood option requires cutting rear glass pieces off birdcage canopy)
Short protruding gun barrels
Kit decals are a bit thick
Kit Additions / Modifications:
Sanded off raised panel lines
Cut canopy into sections to allow for Malcolm hood installation
Used Microscale decals to depict "Short-Fuse Sallee"
Finishing:
The paint scheme for this aircraft is the early standard for USAF aircraft in WWII, of olive green (FS 34087) over medium gray (FS 36173). The nose, wing and tail stripes were all painted on as well. No weathering was done.
The After-Build Report:
If you are looking for a nice budget build 1/48th P-51B Mustang then this kit (later releases with recessed panel lines - See Revell kit review below) still has some merit. While not up to competing with the Tamiya kit it builds up into a decent model display.
Feel free to comment or ask any questions - Keep on building, gain experience, challenge yourself if you like, but try not to stress yourself out over the build - it is supposed to be an enjoyable hobby after all - Cheers
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