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 a 2-part review and PART 1 will review the contents of this kit.

In The Box

The kit box is typical top open with a nice illustration, but it does have a heavier cardboard fully enclosed box to protect all plastic inside. The sprues are packaged in a single plastic bag and the styrene is your typical light gray and clear plastic and will bond well with your usual modeling cement.

Instructions are well illustrated and easy to follow. There will be some extra work to make this kit into a bomber by way of drilling eight (8) extra holes in the bomb bay and two (2) hard point holes under each wing. These holes are dimensioned and I used the included rack mounts (part W28) to verify hole location and size.

Note, in regards to the new Sprue W, there are extra ordnances that is not listed in the instructions which clues in new variants for future Beaufort’s probably with different decals. This sprue is part of ICM’s WWII British Aircraft Armament Set (48407, which is sold separately).

Some builder notes on the instructions, page 20 shows a bomb load out of ordnance assignment to wing hardpoints and bomb bay. Page 21 has a traceable template to cut clear part masks with assigned numbers that will cover each individual panel. Reading from other reviews, you may want to scale this page to get it sized right when cutting your masks. Page 22-24 has the squadron paint schemes and you will need to decide early what configuration you want to complete since it will affect sub-assemblies during the build.

There are two (2) decal sheets. One for ordnance stencils and the other for the common airplane stencils. The other sheet has the three (3) Squadron schemes for the following:

• Bristol Beaufort Mk.I, L4449 OA-H, No. 22 Squadron, Summer 1940
• Bristol Beaufort Mk.I, L4516 OH-W, No. 22 Squadron, December 1940
• Bristol Beaufort Mk.I, L9878 MW-R, No. 217 Squadron, Autumn 1941

At the time of this unboxing review, the build is about 75% complete and PART 2 will be a review of the completed model.

Conclusions for Part 1

The ICM Bristol Beaufort is a good-looking kit. This is big 2-engine British bomber when completed. With some patience and test fitting, it will satisfy all levels with an impressive looking WWII airplane once done. The parts are well molded and the clear parts have little to no distortion.

I want to thank ICM for providing this wonderful Bristol Beaufort Mk. I kit and IPMS/USA for allowing me the opportunity to review.

Highly Recommend!