1:48 P-51D Mustang - Basic Line /TAM

HGW P-51D Mustang 1:48 — an accessory set of the Basic Line range

This is an accessory for building, not a model. The set from the Basic Line range of the manufacturer HGW is intended to improve a plastic model of the American P-51D Mustang fighter in 1:48 scale. HGW is known among modelers mainly for fabric seat belts and wet transfers, that is accessories that raise the realism of the interior and the surface without having to build from resin. The exact make-up of a particular set differs from item to item, so the list of parts is given in the instructions supplied with the product.

The real subject

The P-51D is the most widespread production version of the American Mustang fighter. Its recognition features are the bubble canopy with a view in every direction and the lowered fuselage spine. The aircraft was powered by a Merlin V12 engine built under license in the United States, thanks to which it kept its performance even at high altitudes. The combination of range and performance destined the P-51D for escorting bomber formations over long distances.

Tips for fitting the accessories

• Study the set before you start building; some of the parts are fitted into the cockpit, which is inaccessible once the fuselage is glued.
• Shape the soft fabric and paper parts over a rounded tool so that they follow the seat and the frames naturally, and glue them in spots.
• Dose the cyanoacrylate glue with a wire pin — a drop from the bottle tends to be too large for parts of this size.
• Paint, weather and knock back the interior before you fit the accessories; a repair after fitting tends to be risky.

Who the set is for

• For modelers building American Second World War fighters in 1:48 scale.
• For those who are bothered by the flat suggestion of detail molded into the plastic of the cockpit.
• For builders with experience of small parts and of working under a magnifier.

This is an accessory set, not a model. The base kit, glue and paints are not included in the package, unless stated otherwise.