Video: A look at Airfix's new-tooling of the 1/72 Mitsubishi A6M2b Zero

Took delivery of this little beauty a few days ago. I was eager to see just what improvements Airfix had made over their dreadful original after my experience with it earlier this year and I have to say the improvements are many. Other than the fact that it bears the same name and overall shape, there is nothing in common between the two kits.

Airfix have brought their new releases smack-bang into the 21st Century. This kit has a very nicely detailed cockpit which will be easily seen through the crystal clear canopy. A two-part radial engine with cooling fin detail, wheel wells and properly sculpted wheel struts and covers. No rivet detail, and the panel lines are typically heavy, but they are crisp and clean. A nice touch is the option to have the wing-tips folded! Another point to note is that the decals are printed by Cartograph and not only are they in precision register, they have no discernible excess carrier film at all!

Given that this retails for £5.99 (you may find it cheaper on ebay but there's P&P to consider) this kit represent exceptional value for money and I would recommend this to anyone who builds 1/72 WWII subjects.