Tamiya 60790 - 1:72 Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6

Plastic model kit of the Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6 fighter in 1:72 scale

Tamiya 60790 depicts the Bf 109 G-6 – the most prolifically produced version (around 13,000 examples) of the most popular fighter in aviation history. The G family received a more powerful Daimler-Benz DB605 engine, and from the G-6 – heavier 13 mm MG131 machine guns, whose breeches forced the characteristic bulges on both sides of the engine cowling, known as 'Beule'. Some aircraft were additionally fitted with underwing 20 mm cannon gondolas to increase firepower.

The kit is from new Tamiya tooling, with a detailed cockpit interior. It includes parts for an open or closed canopy, optional cannon gondolas and a drop tank. The decals finish the aircraft in one of two schemes: a JG51 machine (with the characteristic 'eye' painted on the Beule) and a JG54 aircraft.

What's in the box:

• Plastic sprues with fuselage, wing and tail parts
• Characteristic 'Beule' bulges over the MG131 guns
• Optional underwing 20 mm cannon gondolas
• Parts for an open or closed canopy and a drop tank
• Waterslide decal sheet for 2 marking options (JG51 and JG54)
• Illustrated assembly instructions

Model specifications:

• Scale: 1:72
• Item number: 60790
• Manufacturer: Tamiya
• Assembled length: approx. 124 mm, wingspan: approx. 138 mm
• Skill level: beginner/intermediate

Note: glue, paints and modelling tools are not included. The model is intended for self-assembly.

Building the model:

As a new Tamiya tooling it features good parts fit and thoughtful engineering – the cockpit is inserted after the fuselage halves are joined. The landing-gear struts have a solid attachment point, which helps to keep the correct angle. Before gluing, decide whether you are building the version with cannon gondolas.

Bf 109 G-6s wore various schemes, from grey Luftwaffe tones to mottled camouflage. Lay the decals over a gloss coat to avoid silvering, then finish with a satin varnish. The instructions provide paint references for both schemes.

Tools you'll need:

• Modelling nippers for removing parts from the sprues
• Hobby knife or scalpel
• Files and sandpaper for cleaning up sprue-gate marks
• Plastic cement (e.g. Tamiya Extra Thin Cement)
• Brushes of various sizes and modelling paints (acrylic or enamel)
• Panel-line wash to emphasise detail and recesses
• Gloss varnish for the decals and a satin coat to finish
• Optional: self-adhesive canopy masks

About the aircraft – Messerschmitt Bf 109 G-6:

The Bf 109 was the Luftwaffe's main fighter throughout the Second World War and, with over 30,000 examples built, remains the most-produced fighter in history. The G family ('Gustav') received the more powerful DB605 engine, improving performance in response to ever more capable Allied aircraft.

The G-6 was the most prolifically produced variant. The heavier MG131 machine guns forced the characteristic 'Beule' bulges over the engine cowling. These machines fought on both the Western and Eastern fronts, remaining in service until the end of the war.

Original aircraft specifications (Bf 109 G-6):

• Length: approx. 8.95 m
• Wingspan: approx. 9.92 m
• Height: approx. 2.60 m
• Max take-off weight: approx. 3,150 kg
• Powerplant: Daimler-Benz DB605 inline engine (V12, inverted), approx. 1,475 hp
• Max speed: approx. 640 km/h
• Armament: 20 mm cannon (through the propeller hub) and two 13 mm machine guns; optional 20 mm cannon gondolas
• Crew: 1
• Feature: 'Beule' bulges over the MG131 guns

About the manufacturer – Tamiya:

Tamiya Corporation is a Japanese model company founded in 1946 in Shizuoka, regarded as the heart of Japan's model-making industry. It launched its first injection-moulded plastic kit in 1960 and soon set a global benchmark for quality thanks to precise tooling and excellent parts fit. Tamiya's own-tooled kits are popular with beginners and experienced modellers alike, combining accurate detail with thoughtfully engineered, enjoyable assembly. Beyond plastic kits in many scales, the company offers a full range of accessories: paints, glues, tools and brushes. Tamiya operates in dozens of countries and remains one of the most recognisable brands in the hobby.