RS Models 1/72 Me-309V4 Zerstorer Kit First Look

By David L. Veres

First Look

RS Models follows their 1/72 Messerschmitt Me 309 V1/V2 prototype with a Me 309 V4  "Zerstörer" ("Destroyer") – first version with armament.

The exceptionally heavy weapons mix, historian William Green notes in Warplanes of the Third Reich, included "13-mm. MG 131 machine guns in the fuselage, a 20-mm. MG 151 and a 13-mm. MG 131 and each wing root, and a 30-mm MK 108 immediately outboard have each main undercarriage member attachment point."

RS's Me 309 Zerstörer features all 53 V1/V2 plastic parts on three trees, joined by six more V4 components on a fourth tree:

• two 30-mm MK 108 trailing-edge wing canon fairings,
• two inner gear doors and
• a new vertical fin in two halves.

Again, quality of the virtually flash-free components appears superb. Highlights include:

• delicate, uniformly recessed scribing
• crystal-clear canopy with finely raised framing
• detailed interior with instrument panel, gunsight, joystick, seat, floor and sidewall scribing

In addition to assembly sequence, RS's clear, four-panel instructions sport a parts map, components modifications and painting details. Decals cover one prototype and three fictional schemes:

• Me 309V4, 1943
• Me 309A-2, JG 77, 1943
• Me 309A-2 12.(N)/JG 2, 1944
• Me 309A-2, II/JG 54, 1943

The box top's color guide depicts all four subjects. And camouflage callouts reference Gunze paint.

Experienced Luftwaffe modelers should have no trouble with this one. Like its V1/V2 stable mate, it's complete, out-of-the-box.

With thanks to RS Models for this review sample.