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3D-Kits 1/72 Spitfire Mk.II Conversion Kit

By Matt Bittner

The first release in 1/72 from 3D Kits is a conversion set to convert Spitfires Mk.Is into either Spitfire Mk.Is with the Rotol propeller, or the Spitfire Mk.II (which always used the Rotol propeller).

Included in the "complete package" (you can also buy either the decals or the conversion pieces separately) is: two frets of injected plastic, to use for two separate models, along with a set of decals for three squadrons and five aircraft. Those are:

Spitfire Mk.I, 54 Squadron, Hornchurch March 1940
Spitfire Mk.II, 71 "Eagle" Squadron, August 1941
Spitfire Mk.II, 19 Squadron, June 1941 "Armagh"

The 54 Squadron set contains extra codes for another aircraft. The 71 "Eagle" Squadron has instructions showing the two different paint schemes, the first using dark green over dark earth uppers with sky underneath; the second having dark green over ocean grey uppers with medium sea grey underneath. The time period for the change was sometime after 15 August 1941. The 19 Squadron set includes a bonus decal marking for P7665 YT - L; instructions included.

Since the decals are printed by The Fantasy Printshop, all decals are in register and very nicely done.

The two frets of injected plastic is what really sets this package apart. Each part is very nicely cast and the level of detail is excellent. Take a look at the close-up photos of the seat and control column. Superb! Since the conversion pieces can be bought separately, I would seriously consider picking these up for even "straight" Mk.I builds. Very nice.

I highly recommend this set if you're looking to build a Spitfire Mk.I with a Rotol prop, or a Spitfire Mk.II. I think I have a resin Rotol prop floating around somewhere; there is no way it can match the prop in this set. For one thing, this set is injected plastic and the blades are not separate. That right there is a huge selling point for me.

Note also instructions are included on how to convert a Spit Mk.Vb into a Spit Mk.IIb. Looks like I need another set.

Many, many and huge thanks to 3D Kits for sending this set to review. Superb!