Top 10 Hasegawa WWII Planes to Build (1/48 & 1/72)

Hasegawa has earned a reputation for producing some of the finest WWII aircraft kits ever made. Their attention to scale accuracy, sharp molding, and clean engineering make these kits a joy to build and paint. Whether you prefer 1/72 scale dogfighters or 1/48 scale showpieces, this list highlights the best Hasegawa WWII kits—iconic aircraft that belong in every modeler’s hangar.

Internal Link: Explore all available aircraft kits here: Hasegawa Model Kits at Tistaminis

Quick Summary

• Scale: 1/48 for display quality, 1/72 for collection and variety.
• Skill Level: Intermediate to advanced builders.
• Why Hasegawa: Excellent fit, crisp panel lines, and high historical accuracy.

Top 10 Hasegawa WWII Aircraft Kits

1) Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero Type 52 (1/48)

Arguably the most famous Japanese fighter of WWII, the A6M5 Zero showcases Hasegawa’s commitment to precision. The fine rivet detail, engine fidelity, and canopy fit make it one of the brand’s top kits.

• Why it’s great: Superb molding and a perfect beginner-to-intermediate build.
• Paint Tip: IJN Green over Light Grey with subtle weathering and paint chipping for realism.

2) Messerschmitt Bf 109G-6 (1/48)

A cornerstone of any Luftwaffe collection, Hasegawa’s Bf 109G-6 remains a fan favorite for its clean construction and optional canopy parts. The cockpit detail is exceptional straight out of the box.

• Why it’s great: Great accuracy and flexible decal options across multiple theaters.
• Paint Tip: Luftwaffe mottle camo—RLM 74/75/76—is ideal for airbrush practice.

3) Supermarine Spitfire Mk.IXc (1/48)

This Spitfire kit combines fine detail with intuitive assembly, offering multiple marking options for RAF aces. It’s a smooth, well-balanced build perfect for showcasing weathering effects.

• Why it’s great: Excellent proportions and easy fit—ideal for classic Battle of Britain displays.
• Paint Tip: RAF Green and Ocean Grey with subtle exhaust stains for authenticity.

4) P-51D Mustang (1/48)

Hasegawa’s P-51D kit remains a classic. The distinct panel line work makes metallic finishes shine, and the propeller alignment and cockpit interior are among the best in class.

• Why it’s great: Straightforward assembly with stunning detail payoff.
• Paint Tip: Use aluminum lacquer or metallic silver; lightly shade panels for variety.

5) Focke-Wulf Fw 190A-8 (1/48)

The Fw 190A-8 kit is known for its perfect fit and menacing profile. The radial engine cowl and armament detail are highly satisfying to assemble and paint.

• Why it’s great: Easy fit, crisp panel lines, and fantastic shape accuracy.
• Paint Tip: Dark Green Grey (RLM 74) with mottled light blue underside for a combat-worn look.

6) Nakajima Ki-84 Hayate “Frank” (1/48)

This Japanese Army fighter model combines elegant design with precise part alignment. It captures the late-war aesthetic of the IJAAF perfectly and rewards subtle weathering work.

• Why it’s great: Outstanding engine and landing gear detailing.
• Paint Tip: Natural metal finish with chipped green camo patches for a worn Pacific appearance.

7) Grumman F6F-5 Hellcat (1/72)

The 1/72 Hellcat offers excellent proportions in a small scale. Great fit, minimal filler required, and perfect for quick yet rewarding weekend builds.

• Why it’s great: Compact kit with big results—ideal for collectors.
• Paint Tip: Navy Blue Gloss with subtle fading for carrier-deck realism.

8) P-47D Thunderbolt “Razorback” (1/48)

This kit captures the sheer bulk and power of the Thunderbolt, nicknamed “Jug.” Hasegawa’s tooling ensures the fuselage lines and wing dihedral look right at every angle.

• Why it’s great: Massive engine and ordinance detail; great fit with minimal sanding.
• Paint Tip: Olive Drab over Neutral Grey or bare aluminum for late-war Europe schemes.

9) Junkers Ju 87G-2 Stuka “Kanonenvogel” (1/48)

The iconic tank-busting Stuka comes to life with this sharp-edged Hasegawa kit. The twin 37mm cannon pods and dive brakes are precisely molded, offering a strong visual centerpiece.

• Why it’s great: Detailed undercarriage and historically accurate shape.
• Paint Tip: RLM 70/71 Green splinter camo with weathered yellow nose panels.

10) Mitsubishi Ki-61 Hien “Tony” (1/72)

The Ki-61’s sleek design makes it one of the most elegant 1/72 kits Hasegawa offers. The fit is excellent, and the minimal part count makes it a fast yet satisfying project.

• Why it’s great: Small but incredibly detailed—ideal for practicing metallic and camo finishes.
• Paint Tip: Aluminum base coat with mottled green camo for a distinctive Japanese look.

Bonus: Building & Finishing Tips

• Dry Fit Everything: Hasegawa’s precision molds deserve careful alignment—test before cement.
• Panel Line Wash: Use enamel or oil washes to bring out recessed panel detail.
• Weathering: Combine pastel dust and airbrushed exhaust streaks for subtle realism.
• Decals: Apply Micro Set/Sol for perfect adhesion—Hasegawa decals respond well to setting solutions.
• Display: Use clear acrylic stands or miniature bases to show flight attitude.

Scale Breakdown – Choosing 1/48 vs. 1/72

• 1/48: Ideal for display pieces, more detail in cockpits and landing gear.
• 1/72: Easier storage, faster builds, perfect for squadron displays or dioramas.

Image Suggestions

• Hero banner: Lineup of painted 1/48 WWII fighters—Zero, Spitfire, Mustang—on airfield diorama.
• Close-up: Cockpit detailing and panel weathering on a P-51D or Bf 109G.
• Workbench: Airbrush setup with half-painted Hasegawa kits in progress.

FAQs – Hasegawa WWII Aircraft Kits (tap + to expand)

Take Flight with a Classic

From the legendary Spitfire to the formidable Zero, Hasegawa’s top WWII aircraft kits combine authenticity with craftsmanship. Whether you prefer the clean lines of a 1/72 dogfighter or the presence of a 1/48 display model, these builds bring history to life in miniature form. Choose your favorite ace’s plane and take to the skies—one kit at a time.

Start your build: Hasegawa Model Kits at Tistaminis