This is Tamiya's Spitfire Mk Vb Trop, kit 61035.

This is the third time I've attempted to build this kit. The first two attempts ended up in the trash can, as I messed up the paint job badly both times. I think this was due to attempting to use hardware store spray paint as a primer.

The bottom surfaces are a rough 50/50 mix of Flat White and Azure Blue from the Model Master enamel line. It went on well. I thought the hue was much better than Azure Blue straight from the bottle, which is a little dark. I attempted to use Tamiya mixes for the upper surfaces, but the paint went on like sandpaper. It may have been the Tamiya paint reacting with the primer, as I (once again) tried to pinch pennies and use Painter's Touch flat white as a primer. This time, I bit the bullet and sanded away the Tamiya. I then used Model Master Enamel for the Middlestone and Dark Earth on the top.

The upper camouflage was masked using masking tape, cut to the pattern that Tamiya provides in the box. It worked reasonably well, but was somewhat of a pain.

Decals are from the kit. According to the instructions, this represents serial number BR487 from No. 417 Squadron. Looking at it now, I realize that I may have put the sqadron codes on incorrectly on the starboard side. The instructions show the AN-V on the starboard side. Oh, well, I'll have to remember that for next time.

Page last updated June 15, 2023.