Mushroom Model Publications

North American P-51D Mustang

by  Robert Peczkowski

Reviewed By  Hub Plott, IPMS #31328

MSRP: £13.99 or $22.85 ISBN: 978-83-89450-60-9 Website: www.mmpbooks.biz No introduction is needed for the North American P-51D/K Mustang, considered by many to be the best piston-engine fighter of WWII (although we P-47 aficionados might argue that point)! The Mustang's story is known far and wide. Mushroom Model Publication's tome deals with the most produced versions in a nicely laid out and useful volume. Beginning with a brief overview of each variant produced and then a slightly more in-depth overview of the D/K variants the book transitions into a nice section of technical data and specifications. This section covering every part and system that makes up a Mustang as well as production batch and basic aircraft specifications all in the first 32 pages. The next 91 pages are filled with color photos of various restored Mustangs in the detail and walk around format. One of the nice features of this section is that where possible MMP has displayed a period picture of a component or close up shot along with the same picture of a restored machine. The numerous cockpit shots displayed in this then/now format is very useful! As are the factory drawings of various systems. The crown jewel of this book has to be the over 50 color profiles. Included of course are the normal US, UK, Canadian, SAAF and Australian profiles. But also included are many lesser known Mustang users from Latin America, Taiwan and Communist China. As well as many European and Asian Mustang users shown in profile. The depth of the profiles is illustrated by one of the four used by Costa Rica even though this country did not officially have an Air Force. Another nice touch are the 1/72, 1/48 and 1/32 scale plans. Pick this book up, thumb through it, peruse the pages, I think you will take it home as it is a useful book to both the modeler and aviation buff alike. Thanks to Mushroom Model Publications for this review sample.