Product Description

Revell 1/32 Bell P-39D Airacobra

The Bell P-39 Airacobra was one of the most unusual fighters of World War II. Featuring a mid-mounted Allison engine, tricycle landing gear, and a powerful 37mm cannon firing through the propeller hub, the P-39 was unlike any other fighter of its era.

While the aircraft achieved only moderate success with Western Allied air forces, it became a highly effective low-altitude fighter in Soviet service, where many of the war's top aces scored victories flying the Airacobra.

This Revell 1/32 scale kit offers an impressive large-scale representation of the early P-39D variant. Based on Special Hobby tooling, the model features a detailed cockpit, wheel wells, armament, and optional open access panels. The large scale makes it an excellent canvas for super-detailing while remaining affordable compared to many modern large-scale aircraft kits.

Features

• Scale: 1/32

• Manufacturer: Revell Germany

• Subject: Bell P-39D Airacobra

• Detailed cockpit interior

• Optional open access panels

• Detailed landing gear and wheel wells

• Fine recessed surface detail

• Large decal sheet with multiple marking options

• Detailed cannon and nose armament

• Clear canopy and cockpit doors

• Display stand not included

Finished Model Dimensions

• Length: Approximately 11.5 inches (292mm)

• Wingspan: Approximately 14 inches (360mm)

Skill Level

Intermediate to Advanced

This is not a beginner's kit. Some experience with limited-run or short-run style kits is recommended.

Paint & Glue Required

Paint and cement required for assembly and sold separately.

Historical Background

The P-39 Airacobra entered service in 1941 and was one of the first American fighters armed with a 37mm cannon. The aircraft's unique engine placement behind the pilot provided concentrated nose armament and exceptional firepower.

Although it was less successful at high altitude due to the lack of a turbo-supercharger, the Airacobra excelled in low-level combat. More than 4,700 were supplied to the Soviet Union through Lend-Lease, where Soviet pilots used them with great success against German aircraft on the Eastern Front.

Notable Soviet aces such as Aleksandr Pokryshkin achieved many of their victories flying the P-39.

Review Summary

What Modelers Like

• Excellent value for a large-scale aircraft kit

• Good overall shape and appearance

• Detailed cockpit out of the box

• Attractive decal options

• Unique subject rarely seen in 1/32 scale

• Good basis for aftermarket detailing

Builders report that the kit builds into an impressive model and offers a colorful decal sheet and attractive marking choices.

Things to Consider

• Derived from Special Hobby tooling and requires more test fitting than a Tamiya kit

• Some areas may need filler and adjustment

• Instructions require careful study

• Benefits from dry-fitting throughout construction

• Some modelers note minor dimensional concerns around the rear fuselage.

Working Title Models Rating

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4.0/5

A rewarding project for modelers looking for something different from the usual Mustang, Spitfire, or Bf 109. The kit requires more modeling skill than mainstream Tamiya releases but produces an impressive Airacobra when completed.