P-51D Mustang Fillet Tail

for Revell kit

Aerocraft Models, 1/32 scale

Reviewed by Brett Green

Eduard's 1/48 BRASSIN Bf 109 F Engine and Fuselage Guns
are available online from Squadron.com

Revell of Germany released their very nice 1/32 scale P-51D Mustang during 2017. This kit represented an early P-51D without the fin fillet. This limited marking options, as these early versions were very much in the minority, but we took consolation from the likelihood of Revell offering a fin-fillet version some time soon.

However, the recent news of Revell's financial woes and change of ownership throws the whole question of new releases into doubt.

Aerocraft Models is the brainchild of Alistair McLean, ex-Alley Cat Models, and he has now turned his attention to Revell's 1/32 scale P-51D Mustang.

His latest release is a fillet tail for Revell's kit.

This simple conversion comprises four parts - two tail / empennage halves and the two metal-skinned elevators. The kit horizonatl stabilisers and rudder will be used with these resin parts.

Surface detail is by way of very fine and crisp recessed panel lines and panels that will match the quality of the kit parts.

The resin parts are cast onto thin strips that should be fast and easy to clean up. Don't cut the tail parts along the panel line though - that section between the casting block and the empennage is a large locating aid.

There are no instructions but there really isn't much potential to go wrong.

I would recommend that you glue each tail half to the main fuselage halves before you glue the fuselage together. This will offer the best chance to line up the join along the side. If you have any gaps or steps at the top or bottom of the fuselage or tail, this will be easier to deal with.

Please keep in mind that this is not a complete conversion, but it does address the main differences between the early and late P-51D Mustangs. Check your references for the other changes that need to be made, which includes a different lower forward fuselage panel and differences in the cockpit.

You may decide to do the additional work or you might think it is not necessary. The choice is yours.

This is a good foundation for converting Revell's 1/32 scale Mustang to a later fin fillet P-51D.

Thanks to Aerocraft Models for the sample.

Review Text and Images Copyright © 2018 by Brett Green
Page Created 25 April, 2018
Last updated 25 April, 2018

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