These kits have been around long enough now for me to say it’s the best of its kind in this scale. Since I’ve covered the basics of its construction in a previous review for this site, I’ll focus on details specific to this release. The primary feature of this kit is the inclusion of M-10 rocket or “Bazooka”, tubes. A separate runner of parts contains the tubes and the two types of mounting hardware. Also included are templates to locate the mounting holes on the wings. The quality of these parts is on par with the rest of the kit.

Three different marking options are included on the decal sheet as follows:

1. “Anvil Chorus II”, flown by Capt. B.H. “Butch”, Ashmore, 26^th FG, 51^st FS in China 1944
2. “El Diablo Rojo” of Lt. Wilbert McEvoy, 529 FS, 311FG in Burma
3. “Jenne III”, of Capt. Burton N. Rodier, 26^th FS, 51^st FG in China

Also included are pre-cut masks for the wheels and canopies and a QR code to download a 3d parts file consisting of a seat, exhausts and radiators. Since I used the 3D parts on the previous review, I decided to build this one out of the box.

Construction is straightforward but make sure you follow directions carefully. These kits have more detail than Mustangs in larger scales. Other cautions common to the first build include, reducing windscreen base to allow a flush fit with the cowling and cutting off the retraction struts (part #B27) for the main gear doors for later attachment. I suggest the later because you’ll break them off and risk losing them if you don’t. The wheel tread doesn’t wrap around the tires. Scribing the tread to match is complicated by the tread pattern not aligning from side to side. I would recommend some aftermarket wheels. Be very sparring with liquid cement. The formulation of the plastic is such that it’s easy to create “ghost seams” as it dries. Don’t ask me how I know! I finished this kit with Tamiya lacquers and Alclad metal paints. The decals worked but be careful not to use a strong setting agent and take care positioning them as they are delicate when wet. The masks are a perfect fit and save you from that most tedious of tasks.

I’m just as pleased the second time around as I was the first. The detail Arma has designed into these kits makes me want to build a few more. I’ll close as I began, there is no real competition in 1/72 of this subject. If you love this subject or enjoy experiencing a great build, this is the kit to get.

Thanks to IPMS and Arma Hobby for again gracing my bench with this little gem.