Hello, I've jumped over the fence from Armorama because I bought Dragon's 1/32 P-51D as a change of pace and need some assistance. Mainly I'm looking for a set of decals for a plane that would be wearing Normandy invasion stripes and preferably have the aluminum finish. Also, I was wondering if there are pilot figures available. I've looked around at a few hobby sites and haven't really found anything.

In addition any references on the P-51 or building/weather techniques specific to aircraft models either online or books would be much appreciated.

I assume aircraft models are like armor models in that you have one (or more) projects in the works. Dogfights a few weeks ago profiled the P-47 so I haven't started the P-51 yet, but am already thinking about doing a P-47. Anywho, I saw that Trumpeter has a P-47, but is much more expensive than the P-51 and was wondering why. So, if those of you in the know about their kits would clue me in I would be thankful.

There will be a review of the Trumpeter P-47 here in the next day or two. But to clue you in on the kit, it is amazing.

1. It is very very big.
2. The engine is a project in itself.
3. Plumbing and ducting to and from the supercharger.
4. You can display the M2s in an open compartment and the barrels are slide molded (hollow).

I have compared it to the Hasegawa kit. The Hasegawa kit is fantastic, but it will probably sit on the shelf as it can't even compare to the Jug from Trumpeter.

Thanks, for the feedback. I was looking at Trumpeter's TSM2263 P-47D Thunderbolt Fighter which is really sweet. It has the exact paint scheme I want to do on my P-51 if I can find the right markings. It even has a pin up girl for the nose art. But it has a hefty price tag of $112 at greatmodels.

They have TSM2262 (Razorback) on sale for 89.95. And it does have a pin-up duck.

You could try Meteor Productions and search the manufacturers for the PYN-up Decals they do some very nice "photo finish" nose art decals. PYND32004 is a rather nice looking NMF with invasion stripes. The downside is they are only limited to 300 copies so get them while you can.

Hope this helps

Allen, thanks that is exactly what I was looking for!

Allen, thanks again I bought the decals you recommended and got them yesterday. They are very nice and well detailed. Also, they provide a history of the pilot who flew the actual aircraft.

No problems, I'm hoping to get a set in 1/48th for my Tamiya kit when i get paid. I might also get some for a P-61 and a P-47 as shipping to the UK is a bit pricey