Spitfire

1/48 Scale Decals

Sky Models Decals

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Reviewed by Brett Green

This is another excellent-value release from Sky Models Decals. Sheet No. 48-033 includes markings for 24 Merlin-powered RAF Spitfires. Most Merlin marks are represented, including Mk. I, IIa, Vb, Vb Trop, IXb, IXc, VIII and XVI. I was especially pleased to see decals for a Mk. XVI, as marking options for the ICM 1/48 scale model are quite limited.

Roundels and fin flashes are supplied. These will be sufficient for a single aircraft.  

Although RAF Spitfires are not famous for their nose-art, many of the subjects do offer some distinctive text or pictures on the cowling or under the windscreen.

I am a little suspicious about the colour of some of the aircraft codes. Many of the early and mid-war codes for European-based Spitfires are depicted in white. I know that white was used as a code colour in the Middle East, the Mediterranean and by some RAF occupation force Squadrons in 1945 and 1946. However, I would be surprised if the codes for most of the machines on Sky Models decal sheet were not Medium Sea Grey for Dark Green/Dark Earth camouflage; and Sky for Ocean Grey/Dark Green camouflage. For example, I know for certain that the codes for "FU-F" from 453 (RAAF) Sqn were Sky, not White as provided. Check your references carefully to make up your own mind about your favourite subjects. Not to worry though - there are plenty of alternate schemes. A trip to the decal spares box will also address the problem.

As always, the decals are beautifully printed by Catrograf of Italy. The roundel blue looks a little bright, but this might be improved with after a coat of flat varnish. 

Instructions are provided over eight pages (four sheets of folded, photocopied A-4 sheets). The artwork includes some port and some starboard views, plus upper plan views of both the "A" type and "B" type camouflage schemes. There is a table on the back page of the instructions with a selective list of Spitfire colours. This includes cross-references to FS 595A plus model paints from Humbrol, Molak, Tamiya, Gunze and ModelM. Please note, though, that the suggestion that Mediterranean Blue is the same colour as Azure Blue is not correct. Dark Mediterranean Blue and Light Mediterranean Blue are actually darker shades than Azure Blue used on upper surfaces.

Sky Model's 1/48 scale Spitfire decal sheet will provide plenty of inspiration whether you are building Tamiya, Hasegawa or ICM kits. 

Recommended.

Thanks to Pacific Coast Models for the review sample.

Sky Models Decals are available from Pacific Coast Models Website

Review Copyright © 2001 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 29 November, 2001
Last updated 22 July, 2003

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