Any tips regarding the kit, or pointers from those who have built it? Also, anyone have any idea where I can get Pheon's decals for it? I'd much rather do one of the nice brown and white color schemes, but the only boxing I was able to get was for the American pilots.

Apparently if you want a truly accurate model you need to entirely rebuild it. Almost every part is wrong in greater or lesser severity. Built out of the box you can't mistake it for anything but a Macchi, but it really isn't accurate.

This build illustrates everything which must be done to make it 'right'.

It appears that the decal is sold out, so you'll need to ask around to see if someone hasn't used the markings you're interested in.

good lord! That's going to be a tough act to follow..

Hello!

If you need Pheon's decals, I can give you the decoration you want to do.
I would not do more macchi m5, never...

I think "Bluemax" kit is better (forms) but more "shortrun, homemade"...

Regards