ICM has released a new 1/48^th scale Bristol Beaufort Mk. I, Bombing Raid version with decals devoted to No. 22 and No. 217 Squadron. For this boxing, there is an additional Sprue W (3X) that will turn this Mk. I into a bombing raid ordnance configuration versus the torpedo version of the previous boxings (there is no F2 or torpedo trailer sprue in this kit). This is PART 2 of this kit review and PART 1 can be located here:

In the Box

The box and contents review are in PART 1.

Review Process

For this build review, I decided on the Bristol Beaufort Mk. I, L9878 MW-R, No. 217 Squadron, Autumn 1941, as the final configuration. This is a box stock build but I did not follow the instruction build sequence since there are area of improvements noted below that may help the builder.

This is Atlantis Models re-release of their old (1956) North American F-100C, one of the iconic American jets of the Cold War. As usual, Atlantis has cleaned up the molds and re-done the decal sheet but this is a typical 1950’s model airplane. Minimal parts (37), no interior except a pilot molded into a seat part that was ubiquitous to Revell airplane models of that era and the ever-popular Revell “Swivel Stand”. The model has the then normal raised decal locators but has engraved control surfaces. The canopy is nice and clear and fits pretty well. The decal sheet is quite attractive and having done many Atlantis kits I can safely say that it is well done and the decals behave.

The 76MM Naval Gun developed by OTO Melara in the 1950’s has become the standard medium caliber gun on most western light and medium attack vessels. Pig Models has come out with there 1/35 scale version that has a “stealth cupola” as seen on Norwegian Frigates.