What are the most accurate 1/48 kits for the Bf 109 and Fw 190?

I have a dilemma. I would like to build a Bf 109 and an Fw 190 of each main version. However, since I am still cutting my teeth as a return-to-modeling newbie after many years, I want to purchase the most accurate kits in 1/48th scale. I have heard Hasegawa kits are the most accurate for the Bf 109 in any version, but I’ve also heard not.

Any help or opinions here would be much appreciated. Thank you in advance!

Hi Dave!

Uhhh! This subject is a minefield!

Anyway, I'll give you my opinion...

Bf 109
The best early version of the Messerchmitt comes from Classic Airframes (Anton, Bertha and Dora). There are also early Bf 109s from Academy (Hobbycraft) but they are not so good detailwise (Cockpit/engine cowling).
The best E version is made by Tamiya with Hasegawa following closely (remember, it's just my opinion). If you are on budget, you can find the Hasegawa version reboxed by Revell.
The best F-G-K version are made by Hasegawa (they are based on the same molds). Although very nicely detailed, some specialist think they are not perfect and have some innacuracies in the fuselage area around the cockpit. ICM have some Friedrichs as well in their catalogue but they require a lot of work to achieve an acceptable result from the box. There are also late Messerschmitts made by other manufacturers, but they are really not as good as Hasegawa's.

Fw 190
There is a nice resin kit of the V1 from Legato
The best early version (A-3/4) is made by Tamiya. There are also models of the same variants made by Dragon (Trimaster), but they are much more complicated to build.
For the A-5/6/7/8 versions you have the choice between Tamiya, Eduard and Hasegawa. Tamiya and Hasegawa kits are easier to build while the Eduard version are much more detailed (engine, gun bays etc...). The choice is really yours... Check the reviews on this site (A-5, A-6 and A-8).

Jean-Luc

I think Jean-Luc summed things up pretty well actually.

Having just recently done one of the Classic Airframes early 109's i'd amplify just how good they are- definately a huge improvement on the Hobbycraft/Academy kits. The only problem is finding them, though i''ve heard they are doing a new run soon...at least for the "D".

For a cheap Bf109 of the G-10 type don't overlook the older Revell/Monogram kits. They actually have the most accurate shape for that type if that is your priority. Of course they are older and less detailed, but at least they have engraved panels still. And they are cheap, easy to get and have a lot of aftermarket products made for them. In fact you could probably buy a True Details cockpit set and the kit and still come out cheaper than a Hasegawa G-10...

Andrew

Thank you for your help. I appreciate your input very much. Take care!