CMR 1/72 P-51H Mustang

By Chuck Holte

Background

The lightweight “H” model P-51s were an evolution of earlier Mustangs optimized for speed, climb and maneuverability.  Differences from the “D” included a modest 12 inch fuselage stretch, taller tail, redesigned radiator intake, wing, main landing gear, nose and canopy.

The Kit

This is one of the few P-51H kits in 1/72 scale, but easily my favorite.  The CMR kit includes the usual high quality, well-fitting resin parts, lots of under-wing stores including two types of rockets and mounts, two external fuel tank options and parts for a tall or short tail.  The resin parts have finely engraved panel and flight control surfaces and detail.  Also included are a nice color PE parts sheet, canopy and wheel masks, and full decals for seven individual aircraft/units including national insignia.  Two vac-form canopies are included in the kit. 

The Build

This is a well-engineered, well-fitting kit with lots of interesting and colorful marking options.  Gorgeous cockpit and interior detail both in resin and etched metal.  Absolutely no pinholes on the exterior, this is one of the best resin kits I’ve come across.  I finished the kit with Tamiya rattle can Fine Surface Primer (White) and Chrome Yellow, and several home-tinted variations of Alclad basic Aluminum.  I used the kit decals for aircraft 44-64315, 56th Fighter Group, Selfridge Field, Michigan in 1946.  Decals are great, go down easily and show no silvering whatsoever.

The eight-page instruction/painting guide provided by CMR provides great reference without any other source, but I also found Squadron’s #45, P-51 Mustang In Action by Larry Davis to be helpful.

National Archives Photo

Conclusion

Many thanks to Petr Buchar at CMR for the review kit, much appreciated.

References:

• P-51 Mustang Modelers' Online Reference