While fans of the Bristol Beaufort had a splendid option in last year’s 1/72 Airfix new-tool Mk.I, modellers who favour 1/48 now have a superb offering from Ukraine’s ICM – reviewed here by CHRIS CLIFFORD.
It’s not too often that ICM produces kits of British aircraft – more recent examples being the Tiger Moth and Gladiator in 1/32 scale. So the appearance of its 1/48 Beaufort Mk.I (48310) is true cause for celebration. Yes, Airfix’s kit is a fine effort, but too small for many modellers who prefer the perceived delights of larger scales. ‘Quarter-scale’ enthusiasts will be happy to know that ICM’s kit really does deliver and, unsurprisingly, is just the first in a series of boxings; a Mk.Ia with tropical filters has already been advertised.
Moulded in the firm’s now trademark grey styrene, with fine and consistent panel lines, the parts come on eight runners and a separate clear frame. However, a 1/48 Beaufort isn’t quite as large as I expected… but still impressive. The 24cm-long fuselage halves (minus rudder) are well shaped, and ably portray the bulged surrounds of the bomb bay, as well as the pinched upper fuselage immediately behind the rear gun turret. The inner faces feature stringer/former detail throughout the cockp…
