1/72 Airfix A6M2b Type 0 Model 21 Zero complete

[Modelcrazy]

Hmm, looking at the stash, all I have is a Revell P-40 and Tamiya Corsair both 1/48.....I still have 3 Zeros, 2 Franks and a Raden though.

[Stikpusher]

Well, you can't go wrong with either one. Although the P-40 did fly in combat for the US from day one to VJ Day, and in most theaters of battle.

[Modelcrazy]

I heard the Revel P-40 has a several accuracy issues.

[Stikpusher]

Which 1/48 Revell P-40 do you have? They have two in their line up. They have the 1960s vintage B/C kit by Monogram that has some interior area shortcomings, but no real accuracy problems in shape or dimensions. And they have the 1970s E kit by Revell that was revamped by Promodeler in the 90s. I have not built that one ever so I can't speak for or against it with firsthand knowledge. The biggest problem that I recall reading about with that kit is the canopy hood if you plan on having that open.

[Modelcrazy]

This one,


It's grandpappy is the 64 Monogram kit,

[Stikpusher]

Ok. Until the new Airfix and Bronco kits came out this year, externally, it was the best early P-40 kit in that scale. It does need work in the cockpit, especially the IP and gun breeches, the wheel wells, and the flap wells. The raised rivet surface detail is actually most faithful of all kits in respects to this, as opposed to any other 1/48 P-40 kit with recessed surface detail. They were not butt joined and flush riveted in most areas of the exterior.

Yes it is old, but with some TLC and modeling skills, it can be made into a great build. Our new guy Mike just built one where he addressed the shortcomings.

[Modelcrazy]

OK, I knew there was something about the wheel wells. The flaps should be OK if posed up and I'll just have to get some AM for the cockpit when I build it.
For now I'll do some armor and refer to your expertise in that arena.

[Stikpusher]

The upper flap wells have no detail, and there is a big open hole across the area of the fuselage between the upper wings. It's a very easy fix with sheet and strip styrene. As far as the wheel wells go, the area where the struts go is wide open also, but should match the surrounding wing skin area beneath the strut fairings. Another simple fix with styrene.

[Modelcrazy]

I'll have to break it open and take a look.

[Stikpusher]

I'll have to break it open and take a look.

I have one stalled on the shelf of doom. I have addressed some of the issues, but not the wheel wells... yet... too late for me to get the IP corrected, as I've already got the fuselage together.