I'm looking for some help in building a Lancaster Mark X. Everything I have read so far indicates that I have to purchase a Mk III and convert it over to a Mk X. Is that correct? Any help in the matter would be great.

Randall, in most cases a rebuild will be necessary. My understanding is that the initial batch of Mk. X's were built to B. III standard, externally. Later
Mk. X's had the different dorsal turret and the position of the turret moved. You will probably have to research the particular Mk. X you are building and determine which configuration it had. I built one from 419 Squadron (RCAF) several years ago and I was fortunate because "Ropey", the airframe I depicted, was an early one built to B.III standards so I didn't have to amend the turret configuration on the spine.

Best wishes,

Ian

As Ian mentioned, early production Lancaster Xs were externally identical to the Mk. III. Later versions had the mid-upper turret replaced by the Martin turret (you can lift one from a B-26 kit) and because it was heavier, it had to be moved forward to preserve the aircraft's centre of gravity.

You should be able to convert the new Airfix kit fairly easily, or just stick to doing an early production Mk X which needs no converting : )

Don't forget to check out CanMilAir decals for some interesting RCAF markings. Take your time; there are 18 different options to view.

This is the standard Fraser Nash mid-upper:


This is the Martin mid-upper:


An Air to air shot of a Mk.X and a Mk.III clearly showing the different mid-upper turrets:

Great Lanc photo, Jessica. Makes me want to build another one.

Regards,

Ian

You can never have too many Lancasters.

Hear, hear!

You could very easily get away with a basic BIII with Canadian markings. For that matter, the BI was so outwardly similar to the III that no-one would be likely to question your choice - the main difference being a Packard Merlin engine instead of the Rolls.
It all depends on how pedantic YOU want to be about making it an obvious Mk X with such modifications as the turret or if you are depicting a specific example.

Be sure to post your progress !