Spitfire Pilots
Kingcome and Merrin, Biggin Hill

AC Models, 1/32 scale

Reviewed by Brett Green

In these modern times, technology has changed the way models are produced and how we build them. The same goes for figure models.

3d printing allows the modeller to create figures from the computer direct to the printer. As we march yet further into the future, we can now even scan full-sized people to create exact replicas without as much as a putty knife or sculpting tools.

There is no doubt about the wonder of these computer creations, but If you would prefer to experience the unmistakable human touch there are still a number of worthwhiile options.

AC Models is one of these options.

AC Models is the creation of New Zealand sculptor and modeller Andy Cairns. He offers a growing range of 1:35, 1:32 and 1:16 scale figures and sometimes accessories, with military and air crew subjects ranging from the First and Second World War, Korean War, third world and modern conclicts.

Sometimes quirky, but always full of character and life, AC Models figures will lend context, scale and a unique touch to your modelling projects.

Tonght we examine AC Models' latest pilot sets.

AC Models
Spitfire Pilots Kingcome and Merrin, Biggin Hill
1:35 scale
Item No. ACM32019

AC Models' 1/32 scale Spitfire Pilots Kingcome and Merrin, Biggin Hill comprises two figures.

Charles Brian Fabris Kingcome DSO, DFC (31 May 1917 – 14 February 1994) was a British flying ace of the Second World War, most notable for serving with No. 92 Squadron in 1940 during the Battle of Britain. He frequently led the squadron on a temporary basis before receiving full command early in 1941.

I could not find any background information for Merrin, but I did find a photo that suggests that the pilot depicted is actually Geoffrey Wellum, the youngest Spitfire pilot to see active service during the Battle of Britain.

The photo below shows Kingcome on the left and Wellum to his right. Likenesses are good.

The figures are made up from a total of only two parts each - full torso, arms and legs in one piece and one separate head each.

Both figures are wearing RAF blue woollen trousers, light blue long-sleeved cotton collar-on shirt, yellow Mae West life preservers and flying boots.

These RAF pilot figures will offer plenty of character to your late-war Spitfire scene or as a little vignette with the figures alone.

Highly Recommended

Thanks to AC Models for the review samples

Review Text and Images Copyright © 2025 by Brett Green
Page Created 15 August, 2025
Last updated 15 August, 2025

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