Trumpeter 1/24 P-51D Mustang

By Edward Lowdell

There are many modelling enthusiasts out there who argue that a kit should be 100% accurate and if it isn't, they are the first to kick up a fuss about it. I would argue with most of the 24th scale Trumpeter offerings to date that they are the best models in this scale by far.

This particular example is their attempt at the P-51D. There are inaccuracies that is generally accepted, but the overall effect and presence this aircraft has once complete more than makes up for it, and lets face it, how many people are going to come into my lounge and comment on the fact that the seat is slightly under scale?!!

I chose to build the aircraft following the instructions quite closely, however the engine department is hugely disappointing. I did build it into the aircraft but never take the cowlings off! I had a spare Airfix Packard Merlin from their Mustang so built it up and it sits next to the completed aircraft in the cabinet! I also used the Airfix exhaust stacks (without the shrouds as my sources show that this aircraft wasn't fitted with them). The sprung oleo legs are a bit of a gimmick as one is never going to bounce the kit up and down on its suspension once built. I cut the length of the springs before inserting them as the kit sits too 'high' on its suspension once complete, it has the effect of the aircraft compressing its suspension more realistically.

I used fingerprint powder on the fuselage and control surfaces (hard work but worth it) and can't remember what I used on the wings themselves, but they look good! I also chose to use an Airfix decal set as I love the look of 'Big Beautiful Doll' she was a very striking looking aircraft, quite apart from the fact that I have close associations with Duxford where this aircraft was based. The checker nose section was difficult due to the different profile of the Airfix and Trumpeter kits, but we managed it! I enjoyed building this model, the Mustang is a beauty and this one is very special to me.

© Edward Lowdell 2006

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This article was published on Wednesday, July 20 2011; Last modified on Saturday, May 14 2016