This kit consists of 4 identical sprues molded in light grey styrene and containing 140 parts and a double-sided instruction sheet, which is vital, since the kit has so many options.

4 different configurations of fence and gate options are given in the instructions, but you can make any combination of those options with the available parts. I would highly recommend studying the rear of the box art and the instruction sheet to get the most out of this versatile kit.

Absolutely no flash or warpage was present on any of the parts, which is typical of Miniart's excellent injection molding process. Very fine mold lines are present, and they are quite noticeable on the rounded parts, so a thorough sanding of every piece is highly recommended for the best finish.

This 1/72 set from Dutch Decals comprises 2 sheets of silkscreen decals and a folded instruction sheet covering aircraft using the early Dutch insignia.

Each decal sheet measures a little less than 6”x8 1/2”. The first sheet has letters, numbers (in a unique font) in both black and white, as well as serial numbers, data plates, and some rooster decals for use on both camouflaged and silver-doped aircraft. The second is entirely covered with the orange ‘meatball’ insignia of the early Dutch Air Force. Different sized roundels are provided, both with and without a white surround.

I really like the Spitfire. I’ve built almost as many of them as I have F-4 Phantom IIs. So, when the opportunity came to build a Seafire for a review, I volunteered. Does begging and pleading count as volunteering? Anyway, I got the new Sword Seafire Mk XVII, and Brian Baker got the Seafire III.

The Aircraft

The Seafire was a much desired aircraft. The Fleet Air Arm dearly wanted a high-performance fighter for their carriers. Because production of RAF Spitfires was a much higher priority, they got Blackburn Rocs (which were insufficient), Wildcats (Martlets), and Hellcats. The first Seafires were modified Spitfire Mk Vs. As Spitfires evolved, the Seafires changed, too.