Once the USAAF had enough P-51D Mustangs to fill their requirements, the British started getting the bubbletop version for their use. These were often the Dallas-built P-51K and there were differences between this version and the P-51D. The biggest was the use of an Aeroproducts propeller. This prop did not provide quite the performance of the D model's cuffed Hamilton Standard, which is why many P-51Ks were provided for lend-lease, used in the CBI or back in the US for training.

All of the options on this sheet are in unpainted metal with olive drab anti-glare panels (unless otherwise stated). They all have the somewhat flatter topped Dallas Hood canopy. The two 19 Squadron aircraft also have a louvered lower cowling plate instead of the usual one with just holes in it.

First up is the somewhat famous 'Dooleybird' of 19 Squadron in the UK in May of 1945. This one has the canopy surround and the anti-glare panel in blue. The decal sheet provides the white spinner stripe and white checkers. This aircraft also has the underwing serials used on post-war aircraft.

Next is CV*P as flown with 3 Squadron RAAF in Italy during March of 1945. This plane has a red forward spinner and the blue rudder, both of which will need to be painted.

Finally, a second 19 Squadron plane also based in the UK during March 1945. This plane has a yellow and black nose/spinner. As with the first option, the spinner black stripe is provided as a decal. Both 19 Squadron aircraft have a yellow leading edge ID stripe on the wings.

The recommended kit is the Tamiya version, for which the decals are sized. I am not sure if this kit includes the Aeroproducts prop or not, but one will be needed. The decals are superbly printed by Microscale. Full color instructions are provided and give you information on some of the little differences between the planes where appropriate.

April 2013

Thanks to LPS Hobby for the review sheet. You can find these at http://www.hannants.co.uk or contact them at lpsi1973@yahoo.com.br .

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and fairly quickly, please contact the editor or see other details in the Note to Contributors.