P-51D Mustang IV - Hobby Boss 85806

Introduction

This model kit from Hobby Boss is based on new tools from 2012 + new decals from 2016, with impressive decal sheets and a nice fit of most parts.

This is a very easy build; there are not a lot of parts to assemble and most of the pieces fit very nice together and the paint scheme is easy to do either by hand or airbrush. The instructions are very simple with only 3 (!) assembly steps. The package contains an impressive amount of decals and a two sided color print with paint schemes for either  U.S. Air Force or South African Air Force. 

Notice: This kit has also been reboxed in 2017 and 2018 with new decals and different paint schemes (kit #85807 respectively #85808).

Scale Models
Model:P-51D Mustang IV
Brand:Hobby Boss
Number:85806
Scale:1:48
Released:2016 (new decals)
Tools:2012
Rating:

Pros

  • Very easy build for beginners
  • Parts fit nicely together, only few places needed some plastic putty.
  • I really like the USAF paint scheme with the yellow fuel tanks and shark teeths.

Cons

  • Canopy is a single part and it is only possible to create the model with canopy closed.
  • Cockpit details are very limited for a 1:48 model – this feels more like a scaled-up 1:72 model!
  • The two parts of the fuselage snaps together with some pins and can require some force to pull apart again, which made me worry about breaking something when trying how it fits before glueing.

Conclusion

This is a great kit for both beginners and more experienced model builders – very easy build, most parts fit nicely together. I think the paint scheme is very beautiful and I love the details from the many decals. Good value-for-money. Some better cockpit details and two-part canopy would have earned an extra star but I will rate this kit at 3/5.