1/48 Airfix Spitfire Mk.22

by Darren McGuinness

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Hello everyone,
this is my Airfix Mk22 Spitfire in the markings of No 603(City of Edinburgh) Sqn. RAF. I chose this kit as I had seen a picture of this NMF Spitfire in a book and liked the look of it. It just so happens that Airfix provide these markings in the box so my choice was made for me!
Upon opening the box, one is surprised by the quality of this kit. Each part of the airframe is moulded in crisp, clear plastic and all the surface details are finely recessed. In fact, at first glance you could be forgiven for thinking this is a Hasegawa mould.

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Construction of the model was very straight forward and I had no problems, all that was added was a photo-etched seat harness. For the metal finish I used Humbrol metalcote polished aluminium and poly clear varnish. Weathering was done with my usual wash and some smoke airbrushed exhaust stains. The decals went on without any trouble and I was pleased with the end result. My only criticism is that the canopy parts are too thick and in certain light looks distorted. 

All told this model was a joy to build of one of the lesser-seen Spitfires in a different colour scheme. If you are thinking of a Mk22 to build, I can certainly recommend this one. I hope you enjoy my model.

Darren

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Photos and text © by Darren McGuinness