Easily one of the most recognized aircraft, it was the Spitfire that gleaned all the press during the Battle of Britain. Typical of what makes the headlines, it wasn't the most important British fighter as the Hurricane not only outnumbered it, but also garnered the majority of victories during that period. Nevertheless, it is the Spitfire that held the imagination of the world. Fortunately for us all, several Spitfires have been preserved and a number are still flying as warbirds. However, none of these flying are the early Spitfire I/II versions and only a tiny number of these early variants are still extant.

Revell produced a number of large scale models in the mid/late 1960s and this is one of them. Others were the P-40E, F4U-1, F4F-4 and A6M amongst them. This kit has all the 'needed' bits for a kit of that time. There are movable control surfaces, retractable landing gear,  a pilot figure, separate engine and opening canopy among them. Detailing is really quite good with fine engraved (yes, I did say engraved) panel lines and the required rivet detail, though much of it is quite subdued and scale in nature. The kit has a full cockpit with control stick and rudder pedals as well as a nicely done seat and armor area. There is no sidewall detail save for a couple of 'thingies' that are glued to a post on each side wall. I'd be quite surprised if Eduard didn't do a cockpit detail set for this kit as they have managed to produce ones for several other large scale Revell kits.

The decals are quite typical for the time (1967 according to the instruction sheet). There are several exploded drawings, each with a written construction sequence and painting guide.  There are decals for a single aircraft; DW*K of 610 Squadron. This is probably one of the most recognizable planes around so it is natural that Revell would choose it. What isn't in the kit is a painting guide for the camouflage. Not sure if it is just missing from my decidedly old and decrepit kit, or if one just was never included. I'm assuming the latter as the instructions do state 'see box art' when it comes to exterior painting. The decals in my kit have seen better days, but they are well printed and I do recall from my youth that they worked quite well.  Aftermarket decals are surely available for this grand old kit.

Well, what can I say about this one. It is still an excellent kit despite its age. I'm sure that the rivet counters will produce a list of what is wrong with it, but most of us will be pleased with the result. It is also a kit that all but the bare beginner should be able to make into a very nice model.

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