Eagle Editions | EagleCals EC#163: FAA Corsairs - Royal Navy F4Us
Reviewed by Kevin Futter
The release of Tamiya's excellent series of 1/32 F4U Corsair kits has invigorated the market for aftermarket decals of the subject, and Eagle Editions has joined the fray with a new set for Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm Corsairs. These decals can of course also be used with the Trumpeter and Revell kits.
The decals themselves are supplied on three sheets, exquisitely printed by Cartograf:
Each sheet basically contains all the markings for one aircraft.
The printing is crisp and clear, with both colour density and registration being perfect:
Decals are provided for the following three aircraft:
- Corsair II JT 410, 1836 NAS, HMS Victorious, Jan 1945
- Corsair IV KD 244, 1842 Sqn, HMS Formidable
- Corsair IV KD 578, 1843 NAS, HMS Arbiter, March 1945
The provided colour notes are extensive, with profile and plan views for each aircraft. Particular attention is given to JT 410, whose squadron codes are supplied in both Sky and white due to some ambiguity in the references. The first letter of its code (T), is also given in two styles: one formal, and one as a hand-painted placeholder.
Additionally, the instructions also contain the following important note:
Modelers should note that FAA Corsairs were fitted with clipped wingtips and three radio cooling vents on the rear fuselage; one on each side of the fuselage below the antenna mast and one situated ventrally.
Unfortunately these cooling vents are not explicitly shown on the accompanying drawings, so modellers will need to consult their references to carry out the necessary modifications.
Conclusion
This is an excellent decal set, well-printed, and supported by excellent instructions. The only minor nitpick is the lack of more explicit instructions for modifying extant F4U kits to FAA standards, but arguably this is beyond the scope of the package anyway. That being said, with three interesting schemes on offer, I can but highly recommend this set!
Thanks to Eagle Editions for the review sample.
© Kevin Futter 2015
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This review was published on Saturday, April 18 2015; Last modified on Thursday, December 29 2016