Airfix 1/24 Spitfire Mk.IXc Review with pics and music at the end.
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- Опубликовано: 28 сен 2024
- A full and lengthy review of this gorgeous new kit from Airfix. This is the best kit Airfix have ever produced, and quite probably the kit of the year!! If you would like to contribute to the channel.. please look here.. / nigelsmodellingbench
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1st 5 minutes complaining about box in this video is pointless 🙄 I've recently subscribed to you're channel but I'm starting to lose interest already 😐
Its that attention to detail that has made over 20,000 people subscribe. If you click on the little red bar at the bottom of the screen you can scrub ahead to the bit YOU want to watch.
That’s funny… complain about complaining 🎉
Rude!
Well then! Move on Andy.
Nope disagree, I want ALL opinions good or bad about this model, from the box to the fitting, great review
brilliant review nigel thanks! might have to get it myself now;)
You should!
Great review Nigel, thank you! I have my kit on back-order, but I fear it will take a while before I see it Canada. Looking forward to your build. I still have my original Mk1a 1:4 kit from 1972. A kit with many issues, but a sentimental favourite. I've been waiting decades for Airfix to bring out an upgrade 1:24 Spit.
Hope you enjoy it!
This is one for my Christmas list if can get it I'll be doing it as Johnnie Johnson's plane he's a hero of mine alongside Douglas Bader. Thanks for showing your tropical camo, I've done a mkVIII and looks like I got close with the colours. Thanks again
Yes...I want it! Nice review Nigel!!!
Thanks for watching!
Hi Nigel - Looks like Airfix have stepped up their research, engineering and production...The Hellcat & Spitfire would make a great display next to each other. I agree that box cardboard should be thicker & using paper to reduce plastic waste is an "interesting" idea.
Thanks for the shout out. As I said to you privately, I rated it at 9.5 out of 10. I am pleasantly surprised you rate it even higher. Certainly, it's the kit of the year. My Andy's HHQ Sherman arrived the same day and gorgeous thought that is, the Spitfire knocks it into a cocked hat.
It is a really nice kit Andy!!
I said that in my review but a lot have claimed the anson.. at the factory the airfix guys cant decide which one either.. i dont think a kit has been thru so much QC as this one.. But Mark the MD of plastech is passionate about airfix, he is a scale modeller himself.. Airfix is changing, with Luke on Board as researcher, i think they will surpass Tamiya.. I really believe that!!
@@MOS6510Models Come on Moss. Its a great kit, yes. But Airfix will surpass Tamiya. I don't think so.
Really wonderful... You commented on the plastic... and the beautiful oulding. This kit is moulded in the UK, I believe the tooling was also done here. Welcome back home, Airfix.
Yeah, I was invited to go see the moulding being done. The tooling was made in China, but everything else is from the UK.
Having seen the finished product at IPMS at Telford last week, the finish is beautiful.. Looking forward to your build Nigel :)
As an American I’ve only heard of Airfix and have never done one. They really aren’t seen over here. Will need to crack on with this kit.
Great review Nigel, I'm not sure I will get this past my accountant! But very tempted, I think it is really a nice touch to have this iconic plane made in the country of origin, keep your good work, I whatch your channel and always lern something new.
Go for it Jim.. the box is small enough lol.
Nice review Nigel. Mine arrived last week from Airfix. Interestingly mine arrived in a cardboard box which was not taped particularly well. Inside that was another cardboard box and only after opening that did you get to the actual display box.
Still no modelling as am still,sleeping in living room on this damn hospital bed.
So sorry to hear that Mark.. hope you get mended soon?
Fantastic video my friend that was a in-depth review of a impressive kit airfix has done a stunning job of it that box art sells it really glad you’re content didn’t get damaged the stretched skin and riviet detail is beautifully done looks forward to seeing you build it and thanks for sharing 👍👍
Couldn't agree more
What a gorgeous kit, mines on order still so will come in the fullness of time. knocks the old tooling of the 1/24th Mk.1a into a cocked hat. Airfix seems to have its business model sorted -wish the same could be said for Hornby.
Glad your Spitfire contents didn't get damaged 👍I heard on the MOS models review that the Spitfire box is the same one Airfix used for the 1/12 Bentley. When my Spitfire arrives I will compare the boxes as I have the 1/12 Bentley in my stash.
The fuselage cut out and equipment behind it is the camera for the PR IX version I believe.
That's what I thought.. we will probably see many versions of this kit..
Gotta love airfix nigel welljell.
Hi Nigel:
Your review of Airfix's 1/24 Spitfire Mk.IXc is the one I've been waiting for! A superb presentation and discussion of the instruction manual and parts by someone who is well-enough acquainted with Spitfires to explain what most of the bits are, do and might be painted. In particular, I appreciate your suggestions on how the build sequence might be altered to make the model's assembly easier. (None of the other in-box reviews I've watched on YT presented these ideas.)
The packaging is obviously a bit thin, but IMHO it would have been just fine if Royal Mail ("ParcelForce") had paid attention to the "Handle with Care!" tape.
Finally, your excitement at how thoroughly and competently Airfix have researched and moulded the kit was infectious! So much so that I have decided to purchase this beauty when it''s available over Tamiya's 1/32 Mk.IXc, as superb as it is (I'll get their Spitfire VIII instead and build it "Aussie"). Looking forward to seeing it sometime next year.
Well done, Sir, and kudos to Airfix on a "jewel" of a kit!
Thanks Eric.
Hi , Nigel great kit review. Airfix did a great job . At this scale it's ok to give the leading edge D box skins a clean butt joint as there is a fretting gap 10 to 5 thou . The casting around the cannon area have a slight texture if this could be modelled or if indeed Airfix did this already as I have not seen the kit up close yet. I built Spit wings at Airframe assemblies Isle of Wight.
Nice it is too glad I have it
Morning Nigel. Blast,too late for my Beaufighter - I added some detail to my engines,but no where as good as those beauties. Thanks for your review. Steve
great unboxing and review, I received my Mk.IXc on Saturday can't wait for you to start this project, fantastic kit this will be my second 1/24 scale spitfire the first got destroyed in a house move i was gutted
Hope you enjoy it!
I love Airfix instructions. Now that everyone has long since moved away from the old style years ago Airfix picture and English only written sort for 'international' picture and symbol style ones I think the way Airfix present theirs is one of the best.
I see things have come a long way from my childhood in the 1950/60`s with the brilliant Airfix kits back then..So pleased that Airfix are still going in Great Britain in 2022.
I must have been misinformed that they disappeared years ago ,when the factory was at Charlton..Or am i getting mixed up with Matchbox ?
Not sure David?? I don't think Airfix ever went completely Bust?
The parts for the below wing lights (MkVIII?) are included on the clear sprue, Nigel.
Got to ask what is the deal with the cannon covers.... Looks like we have to go aftermarket again.... I can't say I have lots of spitfire reference material but I see very few if any photos of these square nose blisters
??
Wow what an amazing kit this one looks like. As I have said before, you are enticing me to try again on a plane or two ;-) I have just placed an order for this one. Thanks Nigel!
You'll love it!!
I am building this kit right now and can send you the American decals.
Thanks for your very kind offer Roger. I am sorted now.
I do notice one thing about this kit, you cannot see any evidence of the concentric square tubing on the wing spar which was a defining characteristic of the Spitfire. Am I being too picky?
???
Looking forward to building it with you
I’ve avoided every posted review on this kit till yours Nigel. Can’t bloody wait. Watching now. Cheers for your fabulous channel. Keep up the great work. 👍🚒
Thanks for your support 👍
so really only the box and the way the decals were packed - cool.. I'm doing the US one too...
I know.. brilliant eh!!
From what I have seen so far, it comes with the later fin and rudder as well, but doesn't show any schematics for an aircraft in this configuration. I did note that of the options shown, only one is an early MK IX with the smaller elevator counter balances. Future proofing perhaps?
I think there will be other variants offered with this kit?
@@NigelsModellingBench I think so.
Amazing very detailed review 👍👍👍
Glad you liked it!
I can't wait to seee your build of this kit and i hope you don't change your mind on doing the USAAF version - Great review as always Nigel
We shall see
Looking at the sprue layout, there looks to be a MkIXe and a PR.MkIX on the way.
Might even able to squeeze a MkXVI and MkVIII out of it too.
Maybe, even a Griffon engined MkXIV?
A thorough look in the box, and one certainly gets a feel for the kit. A little frustrating you have to wade through 50 minutes to get a look at the surface detail, but that's your choice. It would have helped frame the discussion to specifically a compare and contrast with the Tamiya 1/32 - especially seeing as you had the latter to hand. From what you showed, it's good, but not Tamiya finesse, and (sorry Airfix fans) shows just how poor they have been in the past. No real assessment of accuracy, but I think that's being / been taken care of. The split in the lower engine cowling is interesting: having consulted Monforton "Spitfire IX and XVI Engineered", the main cowling is indeed two pieces, but the intake should not be split down the middle I believe; basically be careful which seam you fill. The price point of this kit could well be its biggest selling point - whatever faults it has it seems stunning value. Best wishes, Nick
Sorry about the long wait to get into the kit, but that instruction manual was a massive part of the video. Indeed, the seam on the lower cowling is raising a lot of interest.
The "intercooler" in the long intake is a sand filter. (Filter paper folded up accordion style to increase surface area and thus reducing flow resistance.)
Thank you for clearing that up. I have learned something today!!
After Christmas I'll start my build, well builds... I've got an Airfix 1/24th Spitfire Mk 1a and plan to build in parallel. I posted on BM a photo of the underside of the wing from both kits: Airfix have come a long way. I'll ask Airfix if they will sell me one sprue that includes the wheel-well detail, as the Mk 1 has none, what so ever. Actually I'd like quite a few bits from the Mk IX.. but not the engine!
Nigel, you commented on the radiator like thing in the extended air intake. I think it may be a tropical dust filter.
It is a lovely kit Peter. I'm sure Airfix could sort you out.. if not, perhaps get in touch with Plas-Tech??
Looks like a brilliant kit....mine is on order. One thing I noticed, there are quite a few ejector pin marks on the wing undersides where the flaps go, so if you wanted to show dropped flaps they would be a pain to remove because they are between the raised flap sections......unless they won't be seen?
Yes David, I forgot to mention those sorry..
It looks gorgeous I carnt wait for mine
The box is the same size as the airfix bentley box!!
plus the outside box it is sent in is tougher to protect the airfix box matey
Well, it could be a little tougher.. or maybe the courier should be a little more gentle?? No harm done.. the kit is perfect.
@@NigelsModellingBench agreed.. but 9.8 because of the courier was a tad harsh lol.. i think its wonderful that the everything apart from the tooling and decals was made here in blighty.. all paper/card was all manufactured within 60 miles of new haven.. the embossing was because the english company who made the boxes had a new embossing machine put that on airfix logo on the bottom of the box.. incredible
I would hardly call a score of 9.8 out of 10 harsh Les?? The same Courier delivering a Typhoon or Hellcat would not have crushed the box like they did with this one. Like I say, no harm done.. the box is 100% better than the crap Revell end opening boxes are!!
@@NigelsModellingBench it was tongue in cheek mate lol 😂 it’s a phenomenal kit..
The newest Airfix kits are quite impressive to say the least.
I really want to build one good size model aircraft, this is the one I’m looking at so a good review of the brand is important as I need now to decide Airfix, Trumpeter, Tamiya or Revell so every detail is important and yes even the box so it’s a good review as now I’ve thinned it down to this one and the Trumpeter brand which here in Hungary is far cheaper but reviews are higher quality but that’s for the modeller to decide, but I will be subscribing as your tips in your reviews are valuable
The kit looks amazing! I wonder what goodies are being develop for accessories for this kit.
The market will be flooded within a couple of months no doubt.
@@NigelsModellingBench Im interested to see what red fox studios is going to produce for the cockpit.
dont forget early invasion stripes (May 44) where whitewashed with a yard brushed and often very rough
They weren't "that" rough in reality. At least that's my opinion.
Nigel - thanks you for this very thorough video. This kit does look good. a coupleof questions, you mentioned the bulbous cockepit, and even Airfix noted the challenge of molding the canopy without a seam. You have the Timaya 1/32nd kit, how is the canppy handled on that kit. similarly the under nose area which you pointed out is moulded in two pieces on this kit to allow for the boulbous shape. any other pros / cons compared with the Tamiaya kit.
It is a shame that the tail wheel is flattened as it woudl be on the ground, if being displayed airborne, this tyre would be 'round'. Or do they have a separate piece? It is a bit of shame there is no pilot figure included and no Stand. I wish these new 1/24h scale kits had a bit more pizzazz. Those original super-kits had full vcolour instructions, motorized propeller options and vinyl tyres, the latter are a bit gimicky and vinyl tyres certaily have their failings, but those original 1/24th 'super kits' felt really were special. Anyway, thanks again for the great channel, it would be much apprecaited if you could share some more thoughts on the Tamiya Spitfire as a comparison.
I would not compare the Tamiya vs Airfix until I build the Airfix kit.
I'm finding that a lot of packaging, not just Airfix, and not just model kits, have weaker, thinner cardboard. I can only assume this is down to either cost, cheaper materials and the such, or the environmental angle, using less materials for packaging.
Yes.. I notice beer can boxes are getting very thin..
@@NigelsModellingBench How many times have you picked them up, and have the end come away, and then a floor of can?
Yes.. in the supermarket last week!!!
@@NigelsModellingBench
Hi Nigel - The seat, manufactured by Aeroplastics Ltd. of Glasgow, was not made of Bakelite but Synthetic Resin Bonded Paper (SRBP) and commonly referred to in the RAF as ‘the plastic seat’. ‘Bakelite’ was simply a Whitehall error, included in the manual by an unknown pen pusher.
Seats varied widely in colour (even within the same seat), from brown, to reddish, as well as purplish tones.
When dear old Edgar Brooks was alive he researched this into the ground, all the way to speaking to a bakelite manufacturer who confirmed that even if the RAF had wanted a bakelite seat the material could not be made into something as large as a seat.
You're a very bad, naughty Nigel for perpetuating the bakelite myth. Stay behind and write out 100 times: The Spitfire seat was made of Synthetic Resin Bonded Paper and not that other stuff 😂
Sorry lol...
@@NigelsModellingBench I think you got away quite lightly. I'd have recommended an hour on the naughty step.
Well, it's technically not Bakelite, but it's the same resin, just not filled with the usual powdery stuff, but used to impregnate and bond paper, giving it more (especially bending) strength due to the long fibers.
It's basically the same stuff cheap printed circuit boards are still made of.
After watching your video last week I had to bite the bullet and order one. Which arrived today, I took each bag out not completely taking sprues out I noticed that 2 tyres had a cut out of it, is it the same for yours Nigel
My model also came triple packed so it wouldn't be crushed think Airfix listened to you Nigel. Good job and keep them commentary coming, I've been building for a long time but I'd like to become at a level like yours so every video you do helps me on how to become a better builder
Yes, there is a lug on the wheel inner that aligns the flat spot on the tyre.
Ah this is so good to know. Thank Nigel
I'm told by a modelling pal that Airfix sell their sprues at sensible prices. So that will be the plan....
I was thinking I might get the Hellcat engine Sprue for my 1/24 P-47D??
@@NigelsModellingBench
It has been done... I think the two sprues cost him £15.00.
See my review with state of my box 😢
AND the tea bag box was empty ffs!!
But also seen in Canada...eh.
yep
DPD are the worst for delivery. I have emailed every single supplier I have used to advise them with the strongest recommendation to sack DPD. Their drivers are utter wankers and treat parcels with the utmost contempt!!!
I must say, this is my first problem with them.
OMG, I’ve gotta get this kit!!!!!🥰🤯🤯🤩🫶
Hi Nigel,
I’m building mine in the desert colours, however I’m buying after market RAF decals.
So if you want my American decals drop me a message on Facebook. Look my name up and my profile pic is my Mustang. No charge you can have them.
Great review.
Ross.
Great review, Nigel. Regarding the decals, why can't they be placed inside the instructions to give them a bit more protection
Revell seem to do that
Very nicely done looking forward to you building this Nigel as I will build along.
Nice review Nigel. Thanks. In the marking schemes 402 squadron City of Winnipeg should be labeled as RCAF not RAF. Airfix typo I guess.
Are you sure???
Thought it was a R.A.F squadron with canadian pilots....don't think it was registered as R.C.A.F!
@@andrewtorrens947 yep I’m sure. Google 402 squadron, City of Winnipeg. RCAF. AE squadron code letters.
You could contact Airfix and have them send you a new decal sheet. They are pretty helpful.
Regarding the box. My kit, direct from Air fix, was inside a box, inside another box and then a final box. !
It looks a great kit Nigel. Not for me though. I am happy with my Tamiya 1/32 version. But if I was to buy this kit. I think I would get an after market instrument panel. Rather than mess about with all those decals. Look forward to seeing you build her. Your Tamiya one looks mint.
You and me both! Thanks buddy.
This is beautiful been waiting for this kit and review lovely review nigel
Glad you enjoyed it
Great review Nige! can't wait to get hold of this beauty and build it.............I'll have to wait a while no doubt as they are not available here in Sweden yet...........But the kit looks fantastic, Airfix have really upped their game by the looks of it.
Hope you enjoy it!
Cracking review, Nige! I haven't heard that much excitement in your voice since the Border Stuka. Usually when I see reviews are an hour long I run for the hills but I knew yours would be exactly as long as it needed to be and to be honest the time just flew by. What a kit! Looks like Airfix have done a fantastic job for an unbelievably reasonable price. I am now sorely tempted despite it not being my preferred scale. Can't wait for the online build.
She's a beaut John!!
Hi Nigel- the circular wing indentations also appear on the 1/32 Tamiya kit. They could be " blanked- over" cutouts for the underwing cameras installed on the PR XI version- a possibility for a future release?
Hope the aftermarket boys do the canopy "butterfly latch and golf ball" at some stage- it is missing from the kit, and also some replacement metal gear legs to ensure the finished kit's longevity.
I think it's absolutely brilliant that they are the only sink marks I could find on the whole kit!! AND.. they'll blend in with the rest of the stressed skin..
Impressive
Thanks for your throughly impressive view. I only issue I have Nigel is I can’t find this Airfix kit selling in the United States.This is not fair or as you say not cricket. I guess I will have to move to Great Britain.
Sorry to hear that
Mine arrived this morning!
Nice review, give the model shop a slap, as they've been lazy and just sent in the packing box from the production company (Plas-tech or something like that) you are correct about the under engine panel, Long story it was two halves, as my college lecturer used to work on them.
It looks to me like one has a seam, one doesn't James? As for TMS being lazy.. I would have thought they saw the kit in its own sleeve so sent in that? It does beg the question.. "if the sleeve is soft like the box, what's the point in putting it in there"? I personally think the sleeve is fine, so long as the courier doesnt park a washing machine on top of it lol.
@@NigelsModellingBench probably the guys at Airfix have done their research on the spit. essentially the semi- tropicalized version was a factory mod, so two parts that were welded (or a riveted butt joint, if the factory can't weld aluminium) - my former lecturer used to weld them up lol
The pics I have seen have no joint in the belly, so are you saying they are the welded ones, or was it only the trop versions that may have rivetted or welded? The Tamiya Mk IX has no seam there?
@@NigelsModellingBench From what I was told they were welded, again with all the factories churning out spitfires, detail differences are the norm.
Check out the factory tour of Plastech where this fabulous model is made.
Seen it a couple of times now. I was invited but couldn't go..
Liked your review of moulding .It's a UK company on a brand new injection machine.
Hi Nige, Great review. Absolutely beautiful model. Thanks!♥️
Beautiful, Nigel, thank you! This one is definitely on the "must have" list!
👍👍
Hi Nige, loverly review as always with some nice tips as you go. I will not be using my US markings if you want them your welcome to them.
Thanks Jason, I'm sorted now..
Good to see Airfix using paper where they realistically can.
Great review Nigel. Big question is….Tamiya or Airfix? If you can only get one…which one??
After you decide on scale, you will have your answer.
@@NigelsModellingBench If scale wasn't an issue could you pick a favorite?
Before building the Airfix, I would have to say Tamiya. post build i may change my mind, but probably won't.
Great video thank you
Glad you enjoyed it
Absolutely amazing!...Good job, Nigel!
You stopped in Winnipeg in a 747? I stopped there sitting in the back smoking section of Boeing 707 and nearly froze to death because they opened the back door.
Yeah, 76 I think?
Love the D-Day version
Awesome review Nige, loved it 😍
Glad you enjoyed it
Some photo etch, a few screws, some cast brass parts and a nice resin pilot would have made it more competitive - yes it would cost more but doesn’t 1/24th scale deserve a premium product rather than a sort of average-1/32-but-a-bit-bigger effort? Look at, say, the way the canopy and framing is made on the Tamiya Mosquito to see what could have been achieved… I don’t think transparent bits with moulded-on framing on the outside is enough in larger scales any more - even if we are grateful you can see through them, a bit.
I don't think Airfix will ever be up there with Tamiya as an overall package, but the plastic in this kit is pretty darn close. It's certainly a MASSIVE step up for Airfix.
Agreed - it is a step up for Airfix. I like Zoukei at the moment
Yeah, Zoukei are cool.
Do they still make any airfix kits in India?
I don know??
Hi Nige. Nice review. I'm about 2 hours into mine and started on the engine as Airscale won't have the IP out for 8 weeks or so. (Airfix's fault not Peter's). Couple of fit issues already and wondered if it was a consistent problem or just me. When you fit the cylinder blocks flush to the crankcase, as they have to be, the top spark plug assembly won't fir flush on both sides of the cylinder blocks, I'll have to fill with card, no amount of Mr Surfacer will fill that gap 🙂
Interesting? I shall bear this in mind when I build it.
The way the Spitfire is tooled reminds me of the newer Icm kits.
Referring to the photographic reference debates that go on on the interweb that you refer to, I read some sage advice years ago about this, and it is that the photograph that you have of XYZ only proves what it looked like on the day the photograph was taken. Sometimes, not even the whole day either. Especially true when it comes to WWII aircraft, on both sides that were subject to the whim of many, many air / luft ministry dictates, on an almost monthly basis - that and the foibles of individual squadron commanders. PS So glad to hear someone ignoring the modern convention that Lieutenant in the RAF should be pronounced leftenant - I spent many years in the RAF & on RAF bases, and never once heard a Flight Louie being referred to as a Flight lefty.
Two kits delivered Monday from Airfix. I have a similar, enthusiastic, positive impression.
Started sanding the mild, textured surfaces to follow with burnishing that simulates metal forming like
English wheel work. I plan on having both in flight on custom stands that have ball & socket bases for multiple posing options. Working on having the landing gear to be switchable, up and down able.
Early Mk.IXs had raised rivets on the rear fuselage, late IXs rivets, all flush. Leading section of the wings were puttied so rivets would not be visible.
Ordered the PDF version of the Paul Monforton, reference book. 'Monforton Press', to order if interested.
One of the best walkaround YTube vids of a Mk. IX that is very informative and shows how subtle the flush rivets are;
'Spitfire Preflight/Walkaround Tour - EAA Air Venture.
Looking forward to your build Nigel.
Oh man, it’s going to be a tough one, the Airfix Spitfire in 1/24 or the Kotaire Spitfire in 1/32….. might be the battle of the year for the best kit release.
So Nigel do you plan on doing the Kotaire Spitfire?
Great review by the way, always a pleasure seeing these type of review, can’t wait for the built to start.
Two different Aircraft in two different scales Alain.. get both.. lol. I was hoping I would get a review sample sent from Richard, but as yet I've heard nothing mate. For sure, the Kotare kit will be awesome!!
I'm getting both - just finishing up the 1/32 tamiya mk8, and having done revell's mk2 and PCM's mk14c, it seems sad not to have both....