A remarkably long name for what is a relatively simple kit, this model kit is a collaboration between Airfix, a model vendor – Malcs Models, and a model show – Key Model World Live. It’s a really interesting set of collaborators for what ends up being a really interesting and beautiful kit.

The model is a standard Spitfire MkIXC Airfix kit from 2009, but features brand new decals. There’s a bit of confusion online though – with Key Model World stating that you’d get a starter set but what was actually sold and produced was a gift set. The main difference being that this is a not a simplified build, and nor does it contain a ‘shadow stand’ – which all new Airfix Starter Sets do come with.

The kit however is straightforward enough that I don’t think most people will or would notice. Importantly, these kits do say ‘gift set‘ on the box itself, so if you bought (or intend to buy) the kit at least you know what you’re getting into. It’s interesting where this confusion happened as the instructions also state Starter Set. Sadly I didn’t realise this until I was building it so didn’t have the chance to ask Airfix what happened here.

I’m happy to say, however, that the model builds beautifully. I magnetized the propeller too (my signature and obsession) with ease. This kit is an older ‘modern Airfix’ kit but it absolutely holds up really well today. I cannot understand why this kit has not had more coverage – as between the excessively detailed decals and the easy to manage kit – it creates something stunning.

As mentioned the decals are insane at this scale. Having a lot of the stencelling/text markings that you would expect to see on larger scales, but not at 1/72. Yet somehow they fit it all onto a standard decal sheet. I have never taken so long putting all the decals on, but it proved to be an excellent exercise in mindfulness whilst listening to a romance story ‘Malcom and the Pilot’ as an audiobook.

Overall I adore this kit.

Buy or Fly

100% buy this kit whilst you have the chance. It creates a beautiful kit with the best decals at it’s scale. I cannot wait to see other people’s builds of this that will surely surpass my skill level.