1/48 scale models
1/48 scale is the ideal half-way house between ensuring really great detail, and finished models that aren't too big for display. The choice is myriad, with almost all major kit manufacturers producing quality items in this scale.
Rebel Defender
Andy Davies has fun adding aftermarket extras to Airfix’s re-issued 1/48 Boulton Paul Defiant, adding rivets and chipping for good measure.
'EMIL' RETURNS
This styrene-only Weekend Edition of Eduard’s 1/48 Bf 109E-3 comprises three runners common to the firm’s ‘family’ of quarter-scale Bf 109Es, but Runner C represents cannon-fitted wings and Runner F the early-style canopy, replaced by a squarer design on E-4s onwards.
WORLD-DEPLOYED WIDOWMAKERS
Xtradecal’s first collection of 1/48 scale markings for Lockheed F-104 Starfighters includes options for seven operators, providing national insignia, airframe serials and further embellishments (but no stencilling) for airframes operated between 1964-96.
EAST SUFFOLK MUSTANGS
Exito’s latest additions are for a trio of P-51D Mustangs based in East Suffolk at RAF Leiston (also known as Yoxford), all assigned to the 357th Fighter Group.
FORTRESS BOOTS
This is a complete set of replacement resin main and tail wheels for Hong Kong Models’ newly tooled B-17.
ENGINE COVER
Modellers wanting to avoid an unsightly join on their Eduard 1/72 Spitfire Mk.XVI cowlings will find this one-piece resin replacement a boon.
DAGGER STEPS
Crew access ladders can add an extra point of interest on a model, so it’s surprising many manufacturers omit this particular detail, such as on 1/48 F-106 Delta Darts.
BUSY INTERIORS
Revell’s recently tooled Beaufighter gets the Eduard treatment with this well-designed two-fret photo-etched metal package.
MUSTANG 'OFFICE'
Eduard’s approach to detail is very much ‘pick and mix’, with Brassin sets representing the highest in terms of refinement, such as its P-51D cockpit.