Tamiya 61042 North American P-51B Mustang 1:48 Model Kit

Model Overview

Tamiya 61042 is a 1:48 plastic model kit of the North American P-51B Mustang. It is supplied as a project to assemble and display. Model Steam rates the construction Intermediate, based on the techniques and handling needed to complete the supplied model.

Design & Detail

Tamiya 61042 depicts the P-51B Mustang, including its distinctive raised rear fuselage profile. This is the B variant rather than the later bubble-canopy P-51D. Tamiya specifies a 20.5cm finished length and supplies two 500lb bombs, two drop tanks, one pilot figure and three marking options. The P-51B’s fuselage profile is an important detail when choosing which Mustang variant to add to a collection.

Specifications & Features

• Brand and reference: Tamiya 61042
• Subject: North American P-51B Mustang
• Scale: 1:48
• Main material: Plastic
• Supplied format: Unassembled plastic kit
• Finished dimensions: 20.5cm long
• Model Steam difficulty: Intermediate

Build Experience

Cockpit work, fuselage and wing alignment, clear parts and undercarriage assembly make this an Intermediate project. The sequence benefits from some experience with conventional plastic aircraft kits. Optional weathering and elaborate camouflage techniques are separate finishing choices and do not determine the construction rating.

Read the instructions before removing parts from their frames. Test the fit of the major assemblies before applying adhesive, and plan any interior painting before those areas become enclosed. Leave smaller exterior fittings until the sequence calls for them, and give glued joints time to set before handling the model.

Plastic modelling cement and paints are separate supplies for this kit. Painting is optional for assembly, but the illustrated finished appearance requires an appropriate paint and decal finish. Plan those supplies before starting, especially where an interior needs painting before the main body is closed.

Display & Collection

The 1:48 Mustang makes a compact single-engine aircraft display compared with many modern jets in the same scale. Match its markings and stores to the version you intend to build. The supplied pilot offers an optional way to present the cockpit, while the bombs and tanks provide alternative external details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this supplied assembled?

No. This is Tamiya 61042, a 1:48 plastic model kit of the North American P-51B Mustang. The supplied components need to be assembled before the model can be displayed.

How demanding is the construction?

Model Steam rates it Intermediate. The rating concerns building the supplied model, including parts handling and alignment; it does not measure historical knowledge, playing skill or optional advanced finishing.

Are paint and glue needed?

Glue is needed for the conventional plastic assembly. Paint is a separate supply for the illustrated finish; this release is not supplied as a painted and assembled display model.

How large is the finished model?

The verified finished dimensions are 20.5cm long. Allow extra clearance around small projecting parts and check your shelf or cabinet before beginning the build.

Does this model operate under power?

This release is intended for a static display. Any movable or poseable details are hand-positioned features and do not provide powered operation, flight, sailing or radio control.

Explore more military models, compare military aircraft and tank models, or read how our build difficulty ratings work before choosing your next project.