Master AM-48-102 Spitfire Mk.IXe/XVIe early version (conical fairings) - Hispano 20mm & Browning .50cal in fairings (fit to Eduard) 1/48

The Master AM-48-102 set is a highly precise accessory designed for early version Spitfire Mk.IXe and XVIe models equipped with distinctive conical barrel fairings. The set is intended for Eduard models in 1/48 scale but may also be used with kits from other manufacturers in the same scale. It makes an excellent addition to enhance the realism and detail of your replica of the famous British WWII fighter aircraft.

• Scale: 1/48
• Countries of use: United Kingdom (RAF), Commonwealth countries, Poland (as part of RAF), Czechoslovakia, France (RAF Free French), Israel
• Period of use: World War II – from 1944 onwards, postwar period (Cold War – early 1950s)
• Product category: Metal, turned accessory barrels for plastic model kits
• Material: Hand-turned brass for the Hispano 20 mm as well as brass tips for the Browning .50 cal. The set also includes precise barrel fairings.
• Detailing: The set allows you to replace simplified plastic barrels with highly realistic metal ones, accurately replicating the original. The conical fairings are a faithful representation of the details found on the earliest Spitfire Mk.IXe/XVIe aircraft fitted with "E"-wing.

Historical Background

The Spitfire Mk.IXe and XVIe with E-type configurable armament were a response to increasingly modern German aircraft. Instead of the classic armament typical of earlier Spitfire versions (two 20 mm Hispano cannons and four 7.7 mm Browning machine guns), the "E" variant employed the arrangement: 2 × Hispano 20 mm cannons + 2 × Browning .50 cal. The E wing is recognized by its distinctive barrel fairings. Fighters equipped with this armament saw combat in the final phase of World War II and in allied air forces in the postwar years – including RAF operations over Western Europe and in the Israeli Air Force.

Advantages and Recommendation

The Master AM-48-102 set is the perfect choice for modelers seeking to raise the detail of their Spitfire replica to museum level. Installation requires only basic modeling tools: simply cut off the plastic barrel from the kit and replace it with the metal piece – CA glue provides a durable bond.

• Difficulty level: 2/5 (easy installation, requires basic skills)
• Recommendation: Recommended for all modelers from beginner to advanced, especially those who prioritize realism in scale aircraft miniatures.
• Why choose it: Significantly increases level of detail, professional appearance, easy installation, and compatibility with Eduard’s high-quality kits.