Airfix 1/24 Spitfire MkIX, MH894, 309th FS, USAAF.
Greetings all,
This is very likely be my last completion of 2024, the simply superb Airfix 1/24th scale Spitfire MkIX. I know a lot has already been said about this kit, but I cannot rate it highly enough. Detail from the box is outstanding and it simply falls together, with the only slightly more complex parts being the coolant pipes that take some head-scratching to get safely through/around the engine bearers.
Despite the ease of construction, it takes a long time to build - I've had this on and off the bench for over a year. The interior is brimming with detail and the engine is a small model in itself. I've gone more or less out of the box, Eduard seatbelts aside, but the super-detailer could really build a masterpiece.
As alluded to above, the only tricky part is feeding the coolant pipes through the engine bearers. I actually cut mine to assist the fit, and this removed the risk of scratching and damaging the parts as you feed them through the mounts.
I painted it with my usual Xtracolor enamels and used a KitsWorld decal set to replicate a 309th Fighter Squadron USAAF bird, based in Italy in 1944 - the red stripes and spinner give a nice flash of colour! It was weathered as per references, with some subtle post-shading and a Flory grime wash to help bring out the gorgeous surface detailing.
I know Spitfires were never parked with flaps lowered, but it was a shame to cover up the detail and this one's in for maintenance!
All the best,
Tom
Excellent result, Thomas. The detail looks amazing.
Excellent job, Thomas!
Well done, Thomas
She is a true beauty, Thomas! I want that kit, it looks so tempting.
A very nice detailed Spitfire, Thomas @vacform
Great scheme as well.
What a lovely, clean build, and lots of nice details on exhibit! Well done.
Excellent build, your Spitfire is a beauty!
Impressive work building & painting this model. It looks great. Spitfires are such beautiful aircraft.