Sword 1/72 P-40K Warhawk Kit First Look

By Dave Manter

First Look

The P-40K-1 and P-40K-5 were generally similar to late production P-40Es except for the Allison engine. The K-1 and K-5 retained the short fuselage of the P-40E, but were equipped with a dorsal fin to minimize the tendency to swing during take-off due to a more powerful Allison engine.

The maximum speed of the P-40K was 320mph at 5000 feet and 362 mph at 15,000 feet. A climb to 15,000 feet took 7.5 minutes. Range was 350 miles with a 500 pound bomb attached.

Most of the P-40Ks served with the US Forces in Asia and the Pacific and under Lend-Lease with the Chinese Air Force. P-40s also flew with the RAF, RCAF, RNZAF, Brazil and the Soviet Union.

Sword's kit of the P-40K Warhawk consists of 60 parts molded in gray plastic and 5 parts molded in clear plastic. There are parts for two complete aircraft included. Molding is good on the parts. Some flash is present, but should not be a problem. Panel lines are thin and shallow, perfect for this scale. Wheel wells and the cockpit have very nice details.

Decals by Techmod are included for four aircraft. They are:

• P-40K of CO Maj. Grant Mahony, U.S. Army Air Force, 76th FS/23 FG, China, Spring 1943. Aircraft Olive over Neutral Grey
• P-40K of 2Lt. William Benedict, 66th FS/57th FG, Darragh West, Libya, February 1942. Aircraft Sand over Neutral Grey
• P-40K of Lt. N.F. Kuznecov, 436 IAP, 1942. Aircraft Dark Green and Dark Earth over Sky
• P-40K of 2Lt. Arland Stanton, 7th FS/49th FG, Port Moresby, New Guinea, March 1943. Aircraft Dark Green and Dark Earth over Neutral grey

Techmod also includes all of the stenciling for the aircraft.

The instructions are well laid out and easy to follow. Paint colors are called out during assembly.

This looks like another nice kit from Sword and should go together nicely in the hands of the experienced modeler.

My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review sample!