I don’t think anyone will be disappointed if I don’t go into the history of the P-51.

I am not sure when this kit was released, but the box says copyright 1999. Upon opening the box you will be greeted by three beautifully molded grey sprues as well as a nice clear parts sprue. The kit features finely engraved panel lines, no flash, and a beautiful full cockpit sporting an accurate “flat” cockpit floor, sidewall detail, 2 piece seat, and a nicely detailed instrument panel. Underwing stores are very nicely molded and include what appear to be two 250 pound bombs, bazooka style rocket tubes, and two styles of drop tanks. Wheel wells are fully detailed as are the insides of the landing gear doors. Although no dropped flap option is provided, the wings appear very similar to the 1/48 Tamiya kit, complete with the raised “flush” rivets on the top and bottom of the wings near the main gear struts (these should be easy to sand off ).  The propeller is nicely molded also and shaped no worse than it’s 1/48 brethren. 

The clear parts are well molded, and include two styles of canopy (unfortunately, the Malcolm hood does not look the part on the box photos, sitting way to high). However, if you choose the factory canopy option, you will be pleased to find parts for a closed or open canopy. Gun sight and one rear view mirror are also provided. 

The decal sheet is very nicely done and includes a full set of invasion stripes. (I'll have to assume that the kit only contains one markings option; that which is on the box art. Ed)

After scanning the box contents, I take back all the bad things I ever said about 1/72 scale. This kit looks superb and I can best sum it up in this way: If you imagine the Tamiya 1/48 P-51B scaled down, with an accurate cockpit floor, raised flaps, and a full set of under wing stores, you will have a good idea of what to expect from the Academy kit. I recommend this kit to builders of all skill levels--and at less than $9.00 a pop, all income levels as well!