1/48 Bücker Bü 181B / Sk 25 Bestmann ‘WWII Trainer’

The Bücker Bü 181 Bestmann was one of the most widely used German training aircraft of its time and became one of the standard aircraft on which entire generations of pilots learnt the basics of flying. It was a simple, reliable and easy-to-handle low-wing aircraft with side-by-side seats, which proved its worth not only as the Luftwaffe’s primary training aircraft, but also as a liaison and utility aircraft. Its design proved so successful that the type was manufactured under licence outside Germany and remained in service long after the end of the war. It is precisely the Swedish licensed version, designated the Sk 25 and operated by the Flygvapnet, that demonstrates the longevity and popularity of this tried-and-tested design.

The Special Hobby 1:48 scale kit is returning to the market in a new form under catalogue number SH48173. The previous edition (SH48120) had been out of stock for a long time after the fuselage mould was damaged during remoulding; the manufacturer has therefore created a completely new fuselage mould from modified 3D data and has also prepared further variants with different engines, which will be released gradually. The parts are divided into four grey plastic sprues and one sprue of clear parts. The kit also includes a sheet of photo-etched parts and 3D-printed parts, which contribute to a higher level of detail.

The decal sheet offers three interesting colour schemes: two Luftwaffe trainer aircraft and one very colourfully painted Swedish-licensed Sk 25. Modellers can thus choose between the more understated design of the German trainers and the striking, attractive design of the Swedish aircraft, making this kit a rewarding project for both collectors of training aircraft and enthusiasts of less common colour schemes. The pack does not contain the paints or adhesives required for assembly.