Older Airfix kits from the 1960s-70s are steadily returning to the catalogue. CHRIS CLIFFORD explores those being re-released this year.
‘Heritage’ kits from Airfix offer the opportunity to revel in nostalgia, but they are also beloved of modellers who relish the chance to improve them with re-scribing, scratch-building and the addition of aftermarket details if desired. It is sometimes the case that an old Airfix kit is the only example of, say, an aircraft in a particular scale. And even back then, Airfix kits were always known for accuracy of dimension and shape.
A selection of firm favourites are now making their way back to market, and while some have enjoyed several re-issues over the years, others have been conspicuous by their absence.
Crowning the returnees is the mighty 1/24 Harrier GR.1 Superkit (A18001V). I built this when I was ten, and then a few years later converted another to a GR.3 for display in my local RAF Careers Office, just before I joined the RAF myself. But for many years I’ve considered tackling it again with a more extensive skillset and better finishing ability!
The plastic, as with all Vintage Classics releases, remains unchanged, but it does also provide the chance to enjoy Airfix’s original box …
