Bob Deford and his Homebuilt Spitfire

[@Steve757-fl1hd]

I had the honor and privilege of flying, as his co-pilot, with Captain Deford at the airline where we were both employed. Bob was one on the finest gentlemen and a consummate “Stick and Rudder” pilot I ever flew with. When Bob flew an airplane he didn’t get in the seat - he put the airplane on like a tailor made suit and flew it like he was a part of all those nuts and bolts. Sheer poetry and smooth as a baby’s behind. I was sorry to see him retire. All airline pilots always have a story about a guy like Bob that they flew with. We called them 5-strippers or legends. I have one Deford story I’ll share. One trip Bob and I were flying the 727 and descending to land. There were towering cumulus clouds between us and the runway we were using. Bob looked at me and asked if I wanted to do something fun. I was hesitant and skepitcal at first. Was he going to roll the airplane or shut the engines off and dead stick it in? Don’t laugh that happened at an airline. I prepared myself and said, “sure.” Bob ever so gently began to weave his way between the towering clouds like he was dancing with a beautiful woman holding her ever so genteelly. So smooth you barely felt a thing. Then he turned to me again and said, “Steve, now you do it.” I did perhaps not quite as smoothly, but I’d like to think as gracefully. He was laughing and smiling the whole time, hell, we both were. When we broke out the bottom he looked again and said, “ Steve, when you’re doing this flying you just have to have fun. You just have to.” When the passengers got off no one said a thing. It was a testament I guess to how smooth he was. I miss flying with Bob. I’d like to say to Bob. Captain Deford, right here, right now, “I’d pull up the gear for you, anytime, anyplace and anyhow” just for the privilege to do so. Well done Captain Deford, well done.

[@salvatorelivreri]

Such a beautiful comment!

[@kalvinnoble488]

An awsome story! Thank you for sharing! It reminds me of one of my Dad's stories from when he worked for Air Canada out of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia as Ticket Agent and Cargo Agent, back when Air Canada flew DC-9's. He was headed to an Air Canada course being held in Halifax, Nova Scotia on a dead end flight back to Halifax. He got the ok from the flight crew and his boss to hop aboard that flight back to Halifax. About half way to Halifax, the pilot started doing steep baked turns and steep climbs and decents. Level off into straight and level flight for a bit. Then, repeat. (Mind you this was all done over unpopulated land, incase something happened with the airplane.) This continued on until arrival time into Halifax International Airport. My Dad was having a great time during that flight, since he also had his Private Pilots Licence. Dad was still wondering what was going on during the flight to Halifax when the DC_9 docked at its gate. When getting ready to disembark from the DC-9, Dad noticed the Captian getting out of his pilot seat and bent over to pick up his flight gear - seeing a huge split in the seat of the Captian's suit trousers. The Captian then noticed my Dad (whom the Captian forgot was on the aircraft) and applogized to my Dad for his flying actions to Halifax. The Captian explained one of the Stewardess' took and hid his suit jacket on him after he split open the seat of his suit trousers and would not give it back to him. The 'irregular flight maneuvers' was the Captian trying to convince the Stewardess to return his suit jacket back to him. He would ask the Stewardess if she would return the jacket when in straight and level flight. When she responded 'No!', the Captain would repeat the 'irregular flight maneuvers' over again, level out, then ask for his jacket back again. The Captain aplogized again and asked, hoping, Dad would not report on his 'irregular flight maneuvers' for it would cause trouble for the Captain. Dad replied laughingly to the Captain not to worry, that he really enjoyed the flight, and, that the Captain would get his suit jacket back before he got his aircraft.

[@busterdee8228]

And this is why we love you guys. My friend flew for United. He never failed to drop by on his down time to share some story. One time, he said he landed so smoothly that the squat switch failed to trip, and his copilot said, "Are we down?" Frank was as giddy as a school boy. Some of his life was pure chaos--but the cockpit was always the return embrace of a loved one.

[@Steve757-fl1hd]

@@busterdee8228I’ve experienced the same thing many times. I’m shocked you know what a “Squat Switch is and what it does.” Thank you.

[@busterdee8228]

@@Steve757-fl1hd Lol. Frank made sure I knew (actually, I did know before but have no clue why). Hats off to your skills.

[@darrent404]

My word what an amazing replica, But what's more amazing is the gentleman himself. What a great guy isn't he.

[@martinoude-vrielink7956]

Fully agree. The guy is fantastic.

[@keithcampbell9630]

He is

[@katanare2301]

A gentleman and a true friend....the way "Merlin" pops out in the the narration is testament of a gtreat friendship...

[@R281]

Amazing falls short.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@topspeed250k5]

This guy is still, after 28 years, lost for words about his plane and the friend who built it with him. Such passion, living the dream. What a life.

[@dabrab]

As a retired RAF airframe technician I can appreciate the amount of skill and effort that it took to build this superb Spitfire replica - congratulations on such an achievement. Bob and Vern - what a team!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@dabrab Yes they are the dream team.

[@peterdemkiw6858]

Be perfect if they have got the paint job correct.

[@KaitlynnUK]

I'm an English lass who loves Spitfire's and it's kinda in my blood, because one of my Grandma's (Dad's Mum) built Spitfire wings at Castle Bromwich during the war. She hardly talked about it, and passed on in 2002. How much I wish I could turn back time and talk to her about her experiences.

[@rogerwilliams2902]

Used to live up the road from Castle Bromwich where they used to wheel the Spitfires across the road to the airfield to test them !. Learnt to drive on there too . Housing estate now 😢

[@redpoll4628]

My Grandfather built the glass canopies at StHelens ( pilks), wish he was still here.

[@AviationAZRancher]

WOW! Great stories!!!

[@VidarLund-k5q]

People that lived through those dramatic days were and are often hesitant to talk about their own effort. I knew an older gentleman who flew Spitfires in UK during WW2. He never spoke about it and I didn't ask even though I was very interested and knowledgeable in aviation history. Many of his friends were killed and injured, and I felt it highly inappropriate to ask him.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@ Yes. I agree.

[@apatheticempathy]

When this generation of men is gone, this world will be a little less valuable. God bless his honest, true spirit and soul. WOW ! = What an honor it was to watch/feel this video. THANK YOU author, kudos, and 1OO% well done sir. What a priceless passionate fantastic vision. Pure LOVE for his beautiful timeless mount. How can my life even compare as this gentleman's story, + this bird IS life's true success.

[@lesfirth2539]

I can not agree more.

[@socalives]

Yes! Wonderful story, beautiful Spitfire replica, and an absolutely charming man! My father owned a T28. Thanks for posting ❤️

[@pandabunnypandabunny3034]

You are sadly so right. Although I feel that many of these men that made the ultimate sacrifice would cry at what our country & society has become. They dont make em like this anymore. This man is a legend!!!!

[@derekcoaker6579]

It Won't. They actually left plenty of Sons and Daughters, there are plenty of Incredible folks among them.

[@busterdee8228]

When we lose a legend, I always think: 'Argh! Now we'll have to live what they taught us.'

[@RippySharp]

I think we should make you an honorary Brit! You are a true gentleman!!

[@AviationAZRancher]

👍

[@darrenleiberman6250]

Hear hear! A thing of true grace and elegance.

[@DannyNeal-g8y]

This is obviously not a real Spitfire. The "real" Spitfires were built as quickly as possible for military use. This is a work of art! No "real" Spitfire ever had this much love and time invested. Absolutely beautiful, and one of a kind.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@DannyNeal-g8y 👍 Yes

[@procatprocat9647]

All of the remaining spitfires are loved and cherished beyond comprehension.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@ Yes.

[@procatprocat9647]

I really take issue with your comment. The British people who built the Sptfires were working to the bone with all their love, grit, blood, sweat, tears and determination to save Europe. At the same time, americans were swanning around ignoring the situation for many many years until they happened to get hit by the Japs. This thing is a toy, and was built as such. Shame on you for your comment.

[@steakandkidney3142]

​@@procatprocat9647 Not only by their owners.

[@Diemerstein]

This guy reminds me so much of my grandfather. WWII Luftwaffe pilot with 27 air to air victories. If you wanted to question him about his combat experience, he went silent, all he would say, human beings perished because of me and that is not something you brag about. If you wanted to know about aircraft and flying, he could talk your ears off and he would talk like this guy. After the war, he became an airline pilot, some of his close friends were the very people he flew against and he admired many planes on all sides. I wish more people would do what this guy did and build perfect replicas and this thing is gorgeous.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Diemerstein Thank you for watching and liking the video!

[@WarrenAafedt]

Wow! What a masterpiece! True craftsmanship. I tell by the sound of Bob's voice how proud he is of his accomplishment as he absolutely should be. What a piece of history!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@WarrenAafedt Yes!!!

[@1sofianos]

If I could afford it, I would buy it and leave it with the guy until he passes. I would only request to fly it and take full delivery by contract only when he is no longer with us. He deserves it. What an amazing guy and amazing story.

[@AviationAZRancher]

He is an amazing man and an inspiration.

[@russellmartin1857]

If you see this Bob - My name is Russell Martin, Bob Martin’s son. I grew up as a little hangar rat in Prescott and always admired you so much! You, and all the guys from The First Composite Pursuit Squadron were my hero’s. Thank you for being so kind and good to see the old Ford. If it’s the same one, that’s how I learned to drive stick lol.

[@terrybertrand7159]

Hey Russ! I hope you and Corrine are doing well. It has been a long time since last we spoke. The FCPS is still going strong here!

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thanks for that!!!

[@stup1299]

If it looks like a Spit, flies like a Spit and sounds like a Spit it sure isn't a duck 🙂 Absolutely awesome !

[@laurentpenot2656]

the merlin sound... in a replica 🤩 edit : dumbest comment of the day 🎉

[@Dave5843-d9m]

A genuine Spit was recently doing loops near my home. Absolutely stunning to see. I live near Exeter, Devon England.

[@Dave5843-d9m]

@@laurentpenot2656 It’s the Allison V-1710 as used in Mustang A and Kittyhawk. It’s very similar to single stage Merlins as used before the Merlin 61 that had the two stage two speed high altitude engine. Higher power Alison’s had a turbo second stage compressor. Spitfires instead had the longer two stage “blower” Merlin.

[@laurentpenot2656]

@Dave5843-d9m quite dumb comment I made 😬TY

[@AviationAZRancher]

You are right!

[@briand4000]

Speaking as a builder of a Van's RV8, THIS project is off-the-charts....absolutely unimaginable the amount of work involved. Building ANY airplane is a massive undertaking but this one is on another level completely. Absolutely stunning!

[@jcheck6]

As an owner of a RV8, could not agree more Brian.

[@AviationAZRancher]

They did a massive amount of work and an excellent job!!!

[@dash4177]

What a delightful man possibly the best 28 minutes I have spent on youtube in years. As an Australian aviation enthusiast that remembers the many Australians that fought in Spitfires in WW2 and the love those men had for their aircraft his enthusiasm for his beloved, beautiful aircraft is a pleasure to watch. Such a shame age has taken its toll on him and he has to sell her. A fine aircraft and a fine man.

[@AviationAZRancher]

I couldn’t agree more. Thank you!

[@stevenkerr1455]

To have the money to bring this fine machine here

[@CaseyEff]

My father, during WW2, was an RAF mechanic who worked on the Spitfires. If he were still here, he would want to see your plane, and I bet you could talk for hours about the plane. I know that he loved what he did and was proud of his service. In 1947, he and his new bride came to the US because of the gratefulness he felt for the impact that this country made on the direction of that war. He taught me that we (British) owe this country a debt of thanks. Thank you for your enthusiasm for the Spitfire.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@CaseyEff Thanks for watching. Glad you enjoyed the video. 👍

[@blackcountryme]

We need more of these kinds of guytt "I'm gonna build an spitfire, I don't know how" That's magnificent

[@captaindoeverything]

we don't need more of these guys, we need to be more like him

[@thedeathwobblechannel6539]

Mr Mitchell the original designer he probably said the same thing😊

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@blackcountryme I’m sure glad he tried. And succeeded!!!

[@CarlBrainerd]

Bob, simply amazing! I was on the Homebuilt Aircraft parking crew that helped you park at Oshkosh. I've been parking homebuilts there for over 30 years, and I've seen 'em all. I remember thinking "This is the most amazing homebuilt I've ever seen, or maybe will ever see". "Nuff said". Agree it should be worth $1M...... cheers!

[@ElizabethWagner-h5t]

Good afternoon 🥰

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thanks for that story!!!

[@Mgp-Rc]

We need more old school guys like this. Sadly with time they are fewer. Such an amazing passion that is so lacking these days.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Mgp-Rc Yes. I am looking for them. I drive. I fly to different airports to find them. They are hard to find. I’m doing my best to find them. Thanks for watching.

[@CraigOppedal]

I’m so amazed. What a story. This story should become a documentary movie.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@CraigOppedal That’s a good idea!!!

[@CASHSEC]

Unbelievable. Well done. Its people like you that make America great. Dont let anyone steel it from you.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Great guy!!!

[@jeffconley819]

@@AviationAZRancherwhat an amazing gentleman. I could spend hours listening to his stories and just hanging out with him. ❤❤

[@jeffenglish9344]

As opposed to steal…

[@radish6691]

I wooden think of it!

[@robharris8844U]

@@CASHSEC it's aluminium actually 😆

[@mikehvirdis]

I'm English too .... this was a delight. HUGE credit to you sir, may many more Spits be built like this to perpetuate their memory.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@mikehvirdis 👍

[@kalapuka]

I've had the privilege of knowing Bob for many years. I think I met him when I was just a kid, and that was over 60 or so years ago. He's a true gentleman and a great airman to boot.

[@barrysimmons5489]

What an honor being invited to form up his beautiful Bird with a Lancaster and a Mosquito! Thank you for sharing, Captain Deford. 🤎🇺🇲👍👋😎

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@barrysimmons5489 Yes. A big honor!!!

[@jnmwtkns]

My God the passion in this guy’s voice and his face. I would almost pay as much as I would for the plane just to be a companion for a while and listen to his stories and pass them on keep this genre of aviation going because without it none of us would be here not in this capacity anyway. Thank you for sharing this wonderful wonderful hobby

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@jnmwtkns Thank you for watching!!!

[@wyanddubs]

Building an airplane is cool. Building a Spitfire... What's beyond cool? Because that's what this is.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@wyanddubs 👍

[@williamjames9515]

The world is a better place because of people like you and your mechanic friend. Thank you.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@williamjames9515 Yes it is. Thank you.

[@calsurflance5598]

What a beautiful airplane! I went to the RAF museum back in 1981 and they let me into the archive library. All of the original Spitfire mechanical drawings were on microfiche. At the time, I was a B-52 crew chief and had grand ideas of building a Spitfire replica. This gentleman actually built one! Amazing!👍

[@AviationAZRancher]

❤

[@alanholck7995]

At RAF Museum in London you can sit in a Spitfire (mk XVIe). When I was sitting in it I kept looking all around; wife asked ‘’What are you doing?’ I replied ‘Scanning for Heinkels’.

[@busterdee8228]

@@alanholck7995 Lol. C'mon folks, give this guy some 'likes'

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@alanholck7995 ❤️👍

[@woooster17]

It’s ‘almost’ unbelievable what I am watching.. These 2 guys need to take a bow because this build is incredible.. & it flies!! 👏🏼👏🏼 As a huge Spitfire aficionado/nut, this is just amazing to me.. Just beautiful ❤🔥

[@AviationAZRancher]

Couldn't agree more!

[@davidberesford7009]

Another 70+ English guy here. I thought when I found this, that I would be watching the story of building this replica. What I found I was watching was a love story, and it was beautiful. Following the fall of the Iron Curtain Spitfires became available from those that were sent east. But I think all that has dried up now. Beautiful story, beautiful aeroplane. Thanks & Bye!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@davidberesford7009 Glad you liked the video. 👍

[@RichardS-qh8mi]

What a lifetime’s achievement to build your own full scale Spitfire, absolutely incredible. That one piece wing makes it incredibly strong and the lovely low revving Allison 1710 V12 is the icing on the cake. Looks like a Spitfire, sounds like a Spitfire and goes like a Spitfire. Bravo sir!😃

[@AviationAZRancher]

Couldn't agree more!

[@TacoJack]

He's justifiably proud. Beautiful aircraft.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Beautiful aircraft. Great stories.

[@432b86ed]

I don't know what is more magnificent. the owner or the airplane. What a story and what a life. To Bob, my very best of wishes!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@432b86ed Great airplane. Great man.

[@432b86ed]

@@AviationAZRancher ... and you are apparently not so bad yourself. 🙂Thanks for sharing that interview.

[@johndaly8060]

I did not get the impression he was 87 until he said so. He looks great. Very impressive project.

[@ElizabethWagner-h5t]

Hello

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes it is.

[@catallaxy2000]

This gentleman reminds me of my father, who was an engineer with Lockheed and loved airplanes his entire life... Built models growing up, and built a Sonerai 2 when I was growing up... It was wonderful to be raised by a man who fulfilled his dreams, and I can still feel my father's joy for his own homebuilt in this man's love for his own...

[@trevorbarrett9971]

I'm in the UK, my Grandfather was a wireless operator in a Lancasters, did a tour and a half, surviving the war, God bless. My Dad is 89 and I will send him the link to this - he will love it! I can't believe people are not prepared to pay what this aircraft is worth, but people are missing two points, so far. One - as you said, it is a full scale flying replica, not a 100% historic replica. Two - this is an engineering masterpiece, built from the ground up, to replicate the basic experience of flying a Spitfire. If any new owner wants to refine this, they have a blank canvas to work with. I am sure that the right person, with a suitable amount of disposable income, and a passion, will buy it. 🤞🏻 If I win the lottery this evening, it could even be me 🤣 Thank you so much for sharing! 😎

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@trevorbarrett9971 I am so glad people are enjoying this video.

[@nearlypastit2385]

I've never been so 'in awe' of a You Tube video as I was watching this. Absolutely brilliant !

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@nearlypastit2385 Thank you!

[@maryblack4447]

Words fail me. What a wonderful gentleman, and a wonderful video. Thank you.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@AviationAZRancher]

I’m really glad you enjoyed it. Thanks

[@JimmyTheBoomer]

Wow, Bob. I'm blown away. We all are. And when you said that you're 87? Well, that blew me away, too. You look great. Congrats on an amazing achievement, and for delivering a little happiness to us all.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@JimmyTheBoomer Bob definitely is delivering happiness to all. 😎

[@topgunm]

700K!? That's a STEAL. What an amazing build. Thanks for the video!

[@AviationAZRancher]

I feel it’s a steal also.

[@patschmitz1532]

Bob is a true treasure! We met in Coolidge the first time and spent many hours enjoying his stories at OSH. We had planned to have him park with us, and when he landed they marshaled his Wooden Warbird / Faux fighter right to a place of prominence. He entertained thousands that year and I know he enjoyed every moment of it. Ask him about the time his Eastern Airlines Jet iced up the tail. He is a true American hero, and any time you can spend with him will forever be unforgettable! Pat Schmitz / C27

[@patschmitz1532]

kzbin.info/www/bejne/pqvOoIerodZ0Z7csi=BsQGsxp-65tSa46M

[@AviationAZRancher]

This is the reason I’m making these videos. I’m trying to preserve these stories they deserve it and the world needs it. Oh yeah…and I love it. 😀

[@jcheck6]

Coolidge AZ?

[@patschmitz1532]

@@jcheck6- Yes, he had a ‘winter’ hangar there for quite a while in the quonset hut hangars.

[@TheCrash1987]

My father who passed away eight years ago was a big World War II guy, and would’ve absolutely got along with this guy famously. You can tolerate emotion, dedication, and memories in this man just by his voice of this plane. It doesn’t get any more raw than that folks. A young 37-year-old like me would absolutely be pining out the opportunity to buy one of these, however, I just don’t have the funds to do so. Don’t think, sir that no one wants that plane because they do, but unfortunately, some of us who absolutely adore this thing just can’t afford it

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@TheCrash1987 Thank you. Great comment. I also adore it and I’ve seen it for years.

[@morini500dave]

I recently retired from Rolls Royce motorcars after 21 years at Goodwood UK and I'd regulary hear and see the two 2 seat Spits that are stationed at Goodwood aerodrome,it;s a dream that I would one day take a flight in one,your tribute Spitfire is a testiment to the builder and to your vision,well done!

[@ROBIN_SAGE]

Congratulations, by the way. Do you retire earlier in the UK or this was just the place you worked for the past 21 years? We generally do around 30 in the USA, some more, some less, depending on the job. Cops and government workers can retire in 20. Me, I'll die at my desk lol..... No social security for my generation! I'll be glad if my folks can collect for a handful more years before it all goes "tits up".

[@morini500dave]

@ workimg since I was sixteen,retired at 62 .5 RR being my last job,I’ll be living on my savings till 65 when I get my 4 company pensions then at 67 will get my state pension,my personal circumstances have given me the opportunity to retire early and enjoy my freedom.

[@philipwall2461]

I am a English retired airline pilot, this is the stuff dreams are made of , what a character bob is fantastic. Just a little to early for me but a couple of years I would snap it up . Phil

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@philipwall2461 I feel the same way.

[@roberttaylor139]

The rivet counting purists will be tutting,but you should be immensely proud of what you have both achieved. Beautiful.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@roberttaylor139 Yes!!! Thank you for the great comment!

[@AW-Services]

28 years to honour those airmen that defended our skies and RAF. Such a beautiful full-scale replica and incredible build story

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@AW-ServicesEverything about it is amazing to me and get to look at it almost every day.

[@jonathanryan933]

This delightful few minutes just came up on KZbin. A very special Man, just talking about 18 years of His life. He stroked the plane like touching a much loved pet. He and a Master engineer, built a dream. I just sat in a chair, in my home in England, and smiled all the to the end. Im lucky, because in the summer I will hear the magical sound of a Merlin overhead. Our local airfield flies a pair of original Spitfires, in the same skies that they flew in, during the Battle of Britain of WW2.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@jonathanryan933 Wow! You are truly blessed to get to see that at home. I can’t get enough of those V12s flying by. Thanks for the comment.

[@jefftaylor728]

I'm from Sisters Oregon, where much of this airplane was built. Vern is a friend of mine, and Bob is right, Vern is a gem of a guy. He can do stuff with sheet metal that I don't even know where to start. Very humble guy for someone so talented. Once he came over to my shop when I was building my airplane. He looked at something on my build and asked me if I was happy with how it turned out. I replied I built it exactly like the manual said. He says, that's not what I asked. I hung my head in shame and said, yeah it sucks, I'll redo it. Good guy, pushed me to do better without telling me to do better.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Great guy!

[@seanmchugh2709]

Incredible undertaking. Looks beautiful. Great story!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@seanmchugh2709 Glad you enjoyed it.

[@rdspeedfab]

Bob DeFord is a hell of a guy. He flew with my grandad in the airlines. I had the privilege of seeing the airplane in person at his hanger in Prescott. But my favorite part of the day was eating lunch with Bob at the airport cafe talking and spending time with him.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@rdspeedfab You were very fortunate to be able to do that!!!

[@FaxonToppafax]

That it is homebuilt makes it the most beautiful Spitfire ever built! Just a super-human, magnificent accomplishment!

[@CaptnGlenn]

Congratulations for your amazing work! Flying for 70years at the age of 87 and still sharp as a tack! Thanks you for your service! God bless! 🙏

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@CaptnGlenn Thank you!

[@DarrenMills-cg4cn]

I live 10 minutes from Goodwood airfield in England and I see the twin seat Spitfire fly over most days that's kept there... I think it's about £5000 for a flight , but the sound of that Merlin is just amazing , never get tired of seeing her...

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes. Thanks for sharing.

[@RoryInside]

Story like this restores my faith in humanity. Brilliant - thank you

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@RoryInside You are welcome.

[@robinkoenig]

What a fabulous story. Your Spitfire is definitely a labor of love. Your hangar is a place I could spend hours in. A nice tribute to your friend Vern.

[@briansilcox5720]

I met Bob about 20 years ago, we were putting together a Focke Wulf 190D-13 in the museum at Boeing Field, with Dave Goss. What a gentleman and aviator!

[@ro19gat]

very cool

[@AviationAZRancher]

Nice!

[@sparkz56]

What an amazing story, and what an achievement to build one from a dream to where it belongs in the sky. Was it a coincidence that the brilliant mechanic had a call sign of "Merlin the Magnificent" when the engine of the Spitfire was the magnificent Rolls-Royce Merlin (not forgetting the Griffin as well)?

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes it was!

[@Lambonights]

I feel so sorry you have to sell this beautiful Spitfire you created. I sure hope it finds a home where it will be as loved and cared for as much as you have. You didn't just build "a plane" here, you created, and cared for, history. Best wishes to you, Bob. I wish there were more people in this world like you. ❤

[@AviationAZRancher]

You and me both!

[@Lurch-Bot]

I'm an A&P and I had the opportunity to meet this guy and check out this plane around 14-15 years ago. Bob Deford actually went and did what I dreamed of doing as a kid. And still dream about, TBH. Got pretty much this same lecture and I was absolutely fascinated with how it was built. He isn't exaggerating when he says this is a strong aircraft. I wish I could have seen it fly in person. Cool plane and cool dude. I think this plane is probably worth about $1.5m

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Lurch-Bot You are correct on the price. A person could never build one for that kind of money. To here it go buy gives me goosebumps.

[@peteranderson6172]

Big congratulations !!! You followed your dream to the finished . The world now has now beautiful Spitfire

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes! Thank you!

[@WarbirdFan66]

by far the best 28 min. 11 seconds i spent all week, thank you for that :)

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thanks!

[@GARDENER42]

@@AviationAZRancher I'll second that. What an amazing guy & a great accomplishment. Thanks for letting us see this.

[@bretagnemaison5455]

Was it 28 mins, it felt like 5 🙂 I often kick myself for the amount of time I spend on KZbin, but not this time... Bob is even better than his aeroplane, and his aeroplane is magnificent! I salute you sir.

[@michaelgautreaux3168]

Ubetcha! I was expecting a scaled version but full size?

[@fighterbomberMiG27]

Building a remarkable Spitfire replica is truly a labor of love and dedication to aviation heritage. It takes immense passion, skill, and likely years of meticulous effort to bring such a legendary aircraft back to life. Hats off to the craftsmanship and patriotism behind such a grand accomplishment-bravo!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@fighterbomberMiG27 Thank you.

[@fighterbomberMiG27]

@@AviationAZRancher Absolutely

[@bobsakamanos4469]

A beautiful Spit replica. I imagine the engine induction pipe makes quite a few turns to feed the Allison's downdraft carb.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@bobsakamanos4469 This comment shows you know your WWII fighters. 😀

[@bobsakamanos4469]

@@AviationAZRancher Thanks, I come by it honestly in my DNA. Wish I could buy yours.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@ Thanks!

[@sandersson2813]

The Spitfire is not just the most beautiful plane ever made, it is perhaps the most beautiful machine ever made by man.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes!!!

[@HobbyNut-sy3lo]

SE5, P51, Corsair, F-16, SU-27/35, SR71, F-22 There are others but the Spit is right up there with them.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@ Spit is the grandfather of all of those for sure. 😀

[@sandersson2813]

@@HobbyNut-sy3lo You can't in all seriousness claim any other those are as beautiful as a Spitfire, especially a modern jet. I'd put an English Electric Lightning ahead of the F15, F22 etc anyway and Concorde is far more beautiful than any modern Fighter.

[@HobbyNut-sy3lo]

@@sandersson2813 Well yes, actually I can. It's all in the eye of the beholder.

[@martinnilsson1594]

I dont comment often but have to say this guy is a legend, I would love to just sit down and listen to him talk about this plane all day and I bet he has many other stories to share!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@martinnilsson1594 Yes. He is amazing to just sit and listen to.

[@kinkong1961]

iam a britt 63 years old and boy is Bob and his mechanic friend awesome I can't believe no one would buy it it's fantastic if I were a millionaire I would at least buy it for 2 million no problem all the hours those guys put in into the beautiful machine she looks exactly like the real thing and sounds the same that merlin engine even the Alison its basically a rolls royce engine built under a licence when the war was on for the mustang most Americans did prefer the rolls royce as it had more power but the sound is just the same may bob last forever what a guy all the best from john from Rugby UK.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@kinkong1961 Thank you

[@TJ-we7id]

You can tell that these guys were DEDICATED to do ANYTHING to make this thing look authentic. Its amazing.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes they were.

[@andrewtaylor3330]

Respect, Sir. Your love and passion for the Spitfire was so warming to see. If I had the money, I would buy straight away. I hope you have and it has gone to a good home. Remembering and committing to something many with have forgotten or don't understand the significance of something so important in world history is sad.😢 So thank you for keeping the Spitfire alive. It maybe a copy, and a bloody good one. But that doesn't detract for what is a beautiful salute to the past. 🫡 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 🇬🇧

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@andrewtaylor3330 Thank you

[@WannaB321]

That's amazing Bob. Vern deserves a lot of credit. She's beautiful. I'm sure it was a lot of work, but it was worth it.

[@AviationAZRancher]

I think so too!

[@chrisgoblin4857]

What a work of art. Not sure why but I got emotional listening to Bob speak about the experience of building it. Great video Mr Rancher.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thank you.

[@peterdemkiw6858]

I would love to get the paint right, such a beautiful build and the paint lets it down.

[@malcolmanon4762]

Where I live in the UK, I am lucky enough to have two of these bad boys fly over most days in the summer, one of which is a restoration and the other is a "new build", both sound absolutely fabulous.

[@Pesmog]

Yes, like you I probably see two or three a week in the summer. 👍

[@johnbirdsall677]

passion,vision,determination a little cash and a true aviator......he is a member of a very small and exclusive club...respect..!!!!

[@AviationAZRancher]

Exactly!!!

[@kranson8514]

Gorgeous scale spitfire, Bob is just as amazing what a lovely ole fella. The world is richer for having him.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes.

[@tommcdorman9031]

28 years ??? You certainly did not waist your life….. what a contribution!

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes

[@Codge5]

I could listen to the gentleman for hours , Much admiration for you Bob from an RC builder !

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Codge5 Yes.

[@43963]

`If you can dream it, you can make it`. Made by two amazing people. What a beauty!

[@AviationAZRancher]

Yes

[@TheFatNumpty]

Spitfire obsessed Brit here, there’s plenty of homebuilt warbirds out there and they’re not bad but this is something much, much more. The others just don’t quite look right and certainly don’t sound right either, this one? Ticks the boxes all the way and it’s clear that this guy’s attention to detail is absolutely on the money. Great aircraft 👏👏👏

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@TheFatNumpty Really glad you enjoyed it!!!

[@John-ob7dh]

2 years ago ,i went up in a 1944 Spit from Biggin Hill .It was a late in the day flight ( October) the pilot did the Barrel roll ,the loop the loop and i had the dual controls joy stick for about 8 mins.So i banked the plane and i dived it .We flew back into the setting sun.Was amazing to think in 1944 when that spitfire came out the Birminghsm factory,i was 3 years old.And 80 years later i was actually ( for a very short time ) flying it . The flights go over my house quite regular and i (when i hear that engine ) dash outside to see them go over . Will never forget it .Plus i took my Dads medal up with me ( Legion d Honneuer ) Awarded to him for his service to France in WW2.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@John-ob7dh Great story.

[@julianmhall]

Astonishing achievement. Even a shell that /looked/ like a Spitfire would be impressive but 465 hours /flying/?? That is incredible!

[@AviationAZRancher]

👍

[@Graham_lee]

To be able to create something like this is unbelievable, what a machine, what a man

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Graham_lee Yes.

[@theflyinghamster8442]

28 years of your life 🙂 very very well spent !!!! 🙂🙂🙂 Fantastic !!!!

[@AviationAZRancher]

My feelings exactly!!

[@sniddley]

You built a beautiful Spitfire Bob, I too would hug the prop every chance I could. Thanks for sharing.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@sniddley Yes indeed. ❤️

[@davidrenton]

as a Brit,what this nice gentleman and Vern has achieved is not only magnificent, but a work of art in it's own right. thank you for preserving history

[@AviationAZRancher]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@kevinn1158]

So when do you build a Lancaster? Hehe. This is truly awesome! We have a Lancaster which flies over our house every summer multiple times here in Toronto. I love the sound. It's Nov 11th today. Lest we Forget. Remember all of the men and women who fought for our freedom.

[@AviationAZRancher]

That would be cool!

[@jamesmorris9056]

Lovely story about a lovely man and his passion. Thanks for sharing.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@markadams7328]

Living your passion is the best life there is!

[@WilliamKiene]

I was born in 1945, at the end of World War II, and was a hobbyist mechanic, so I can't hardly believe these guys built this magnificent old war bird replica. Thanks for sharing. This fantastic plane might be better or more practical than the original Spitfire because Bob was a real pilot. Flying and airplanes are Bob's life. On family vacations as a child, on the Pacific Coast of California, we saw these World War II fighters being flown by civilians, fast and low, off the beaches in the 1950s. I am going to go now to watch Bob's videos.

[@ElizabethWagner-h5t]

Good afternoon 🥰

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@WilliamKiene All of Bob’s videos are great! I’m glad we get to be apart of them.

[@mtyhntr49]

Great story Sir. I'm a navy veteran and love everything about the planes. I was attached to VA-34 BLUEBLASTERS A6 INTRUDERS OUT OF OCEANA, Va. Back in the '70's. Your spitfire is absolutely beautiful. Well done.😊

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thank you!

[@brianjones6500]

It's funny that you won a Charles Lindberg award. We put together a sweet RV-8 with red paint and earned the same award for a home build. I don't remember seeing a bonus check in my paycheck and my co-workers didn't see anything special either to my knowledge. So I came up with a golden unicorn award that I bought then presented it to the shop team in order for our crew to feel included. It should be on display to this day but who knows. I moved on from the fun factory to do other things.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@brianjones6500 Nice. Thanks for that.

[@klausuhlig7141]

I'm a old school biker, used to buy my oil at some little air port in Canada and managed to get a ride in probably a trainer fighter plane, flying along river banks, we musta crossed the border a few times, the pilot was my dentist but probably a old WW2 pilot, when the gentleman said he sometimes sits in the hanger with a soda pop, I can so relate to that, I look at my beutiful old harleys in my Hanger in Mexico caping a beer and reminiscing about the great people I've known, salutes old timers

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@klausuhlig7141 Thank you!

[@foivosapostolos1211]

So much respect for this gentleman. He realized his dream. Wish I could buy this and assure it's future.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@foivosapostolos1211 Yes.

[@55peterf]

Just wonderful. A masterpiece in its own right. Such skill and dedication what an amazing retirement project.

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@55peterf It truly is.

[@hohocc1349]

What an absolute gentleman. Any purchaser would surely find themselves conflicted in owning such a wonderful aeroplane, but having to take it from such a caring owner. Always impressed to see an older pilot decide on their own terms when the time is right to move on too. Mr Deford, you really are a class act.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Bob truly is a class act and a great pilot!!!

[@roywilliams4903]

Love the paint job, I teared up when you hugged the propeller 😂😊

[@AviationAZRancher]

You and me both!

[@Retrofordguy]

As a brit and a millennial thank you for honoring a piece of our history shame it doesn't have a merlin in it cos the sound of a merlin WOW and though I'm biased I think the spitfire it very good looking aircraft! And never fails to bring tears to my eye thinking of the guys we lost and guys that survived flying the spitfire THANK YOU SIR

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@Retrofordguy Spitfire is an iconic aircraft to say the least.

[@davidblackman7085]

My Father had a flight in a spitfire this year at Biggin Hill England, I followed in a chase plane ( first time flying for me ) would highly recommend to anyone, great day out.

[@Paulruk]

Wanted to do that but it costs ££££ , instead went to Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum in Manston and flew the simulator. Not the same thought but worth a go.

[@davidblackman7085]

@@Paulruk If you ever can afford it, go for it. My father is going up in a Mustang next year.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Sounds fun!!

[@krookeddreamz09]

If I only had the money Bob I would be there this afternoon! That beauty will be flying soon Godspeed Bob!

[@alanparkinson549]

Wow! What more can I say? I was wiping tears from my eyes throughout the video.

[@peatmoss4415]

Cut back on the amount of soy in your diet...

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@alanparkinson549 I am really glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for watching.

[@davecooper5951]

Fantastic achievement. There was a guy in England (Clive Du Cros) who built an all wood airframe Spitfire with a Jaguar V12 (car-based) engine. It was test flown by an old flying instructor of mine - Pete Thorn, who was an ex-WW2 fighter pilot. I think it suffered a partial undercarriage collapse during an early test flight. It went into storage for a while and then I lost trace of it. Maybe a museum has it now ?

[@AviationAZRancher]

Thanks for sharing.

[@martinwalker5049]

I flew out of Biggin Hill a few weeks ago, dual cockpit Spitfire taxiing out as we were on our landing roll out. Very cool.

[@AviationAZRancher]

Wow. What an experience!

[@erict5234]

When he brought his plane to OSH, the warbirds ramp would not let him park in their area... Because it was a homebuilt, we found space for his plane... Directly across from the warbirds ramp! I was lucky enough to meet Bob, and shuttle him around while EAA photo did ground shoots of his plane with the other British warbirds. So cool, one of kind. Absolute masterpiece.

[@trickywoo5165]

It really is magnificent’

[@drongobum2037]

What's funny about your story is most warbirds have very little of the original in them. They're essentially replicas with a few original parts.

[@erict5234]

@drongobum2037 yep, very true... except actual warbirds have a bureau number or serial number. You can imagine the confusion at OSH when a "Spitfire" shows up, and there is no record of its assembly. Then the pilot tells you that he built it! Unreal!!!

[@AviationAZRancher]

@@erict5234 You were blessed to meet Bob and see his enthusiasm for life. He truly loves airplanes and especially his Spitfire. 👍👍👍