P-51D Mustang Grim Reaper Die-Cast Model

Credited with 4,950 aerial victories during WWII.

Known for its contributions to WWII history, the P-51D Mustang is one of the most legendary fighter aircraft of all time. Racking up 4,950 aerial victories during its lifespan, it saw major redesigns that resulted in aces all around the world. Flown by Lt. Col. Lowell K. Brueland of the 355th Fighter Squadron, this P-51D Mustang features the nickname “Grim Reaper” on the nose. Credited with 12.5 enemy aircraft destroyed in this P-51D, Brueland would go on to receive an additional two in Korea while piloting an F-86 Sabre. 

Features:

• Authentic paint scheme, engraved panel lines, and printed decals
• Miniature antennas and small surface details
• Deployed or retracted landing gear
• Moving flaps
• Rotating propeller
• Open or closed canopy with pilot figurine
• Display stand included
• Measures 8”l with a 9.25” wingspan at 1:48 scale
• Officially licensed

History and Specifications:
Developed as the successor for Curtiss P-40 Warhawks, the Mustang was initially ordered by the Royal Air Force to serve as one of their primary fighters. Though not originally purchased by the USAAF, the intervention of General Hap Arnold resulted in 55 of the early examples being retained as photo-reconnaissance aircraft. Accepted in 1942 by the USAAF, the first P-51 fighters to join the ranks were somewhat limited, equipped with the Allison V-1710 which struggled at altitudes. Though early China-Burma-India conflicts were mostly at low and medium altitudes, engineers begun their search for an answer the performance deficit. Fall of that same year, an experimental version of the Mustang would be fitted with the British “Merlin” engine. Increasing top speed by more than 100mph above 30,000ft, production would shift to incorporate this powerplant for all following models. Adding the advanced “bubble canopy” for greater visibility and two additional .50 caliber machine guns, the P-51D model was born. Delivered by Spring of 1944, these Mustangs would become the primary escorts of high-altitude B-17 Flying Fortress bombers.