Airfix 1/72 P40b/Tomahawk/Hawk 81A2 (new mould)

This is the review of the Airfix new mould P40b (or Tomahawk, or Curtiss Hawk 81A2).

The P40 was a promising airplane, with good performance, but which ended up having a role different from the one intended. Due to the lack of a turbocharger, it wasn't good in high altitude flight, but it was astonishing in low level flight.

In its early version, it was the one that faced the Japanese Mitsubishi zero on the Pearl Harbour attack. On its late versions, it ended up being usefull on the African war theater.

This is the new mould P40b from Aifix, that sells it on several versions of it, including the export ones. I opted to go for the Russian leased versions and home printed the decals. 

There isn't much to say, but it is wonderfull. The landing gear wells have enough detail, even if not astonishing.

In the end, it looks like a nice little model, with nice amount of detail on the cockpit.

It is good, but I did not looked for the real one, so I cannot assure how well detailed it is. It is an enjoyable build, you can make the oil radiator exit open or closed.

I only advise to be carefull on the canopy. Without any warning, mine developed some inner cracks... You have to be carefull and make sure it actually fits! If not, time will crack it...

Overall, a good build, a nice model kit to start on the hobby.