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Rafi Ben-Shahar
377 articles

Airfix 1/72 Vulcan B.2

April 22, 2023 · in Aviation · · 23 · 0.7K

The new tool is superior in every respect (unfortunately, also for the price) to the original issue dated back in 1983. The build is straight forward. However, the massive model size poses challenges along the build. Your attention will be required in some joints particularly, the front fuselage and intake areas.

Having completed the white version, it was only a matter of time until I acquired a second Vulcan for the intricate camouflage scheme. The choice of the original Airfix kit was obvious given the kit price difference. With the old tool kit, the camouflage pattern conceals well the coarser part molding and raised panel lines styles. It is a good old modelling practice with lots of dry fitting, sanding and putty application. I used spare parts of the new tool kit whenever possible in addition to spare decals.

Reader reactions:
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23 responses

  1. Well done on both builds, Rafi. I'm partial to the camo version.

  2. You’ve done some excellent work on that camouflage scheme, Rafi, but, for me, V-bombers look best in the original white livery.

  3. Thank you George.

  4. Very nice build and a great paint job, Rafi @blackmopane. The white scheme is not easy to do with a realistic weathering, yours is great! I have this kit in my stash and your builds serve as an inspiration.

  5. Excellent result on both, Rafi @blackmopane
    Nice detailing and paint work.
    Having seen a demonstration of a Vulcan makes this aircraft even more attractive.

  6. Both are wonderful, Rafi!
    Congratulations!

  7. Thank you Spiros.

  8. Beautiful work on both, I think both schemes look great, although the camo version always reminds me of James Bond's Thunderball.

  9. Thank you Robert.

  10. Back in the day (1969-72), I was stationed at Nellis AFB, near Las Vegas Nevada. I worked avionics on the F-111A, so was often out on the flightline doing maintenance (and watching all the cool aircraft out there). We oftentimes were treated to impromptu aerial displays by the Thunderbirds who make Nellis their home. Imagine my surprise when an aerial display was put on by a huge AVRO Vulcan. I watched as this beautiful aircraft put on a superb flying display on the east side of Nellis. Apparently, some Vulcans were regular visitors to the USA back then, so we were given a treat. What an amazing aircraft.

    Your models of the Vulcan are excellent...thanks for sharing them with us (and bringing back fond memories to me). Also, we have a Vulcan on display here at the Castle Air Museum, and IIRC it is open to view inside during open cockpit day (which I believe is coming up pretty soon).

    Thanks again for sharing.

  11. Thank you Marvin, and also for sharing your memories.
    I prefer the white scheme because it brings back childhood memories of the giant aircraft.

  12. Thanks for the inspiration. I have the new Airfix kit and want to do it as XM702, in the one-off "Red Flag" scheme from 1978 with a Dark Earth/Mid Stone "mirror scheme' over the lower surface with the grey-green upper scheme.

    Beautiful work on both.Again, thanks for the inspiration.

  13. Nice work on both, Rafi!

  14. Two very nice builds! Even at 1/72, that bird is too big for my cabinets, otherwise I'd love to have one for my collection.

  15. Thank you Greg.
    There is the Trumpeter 1/144 Vulcan that may fit.

  16. Nicely done Rafi.

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