Leading Edge Models | Golden Hawks Sabre Mk 6 1962/1963 Aerobatic Team
Reviewed by Mark Proulx
Arguably, one of the most colorful demonstration teams to ever fly the F-86 Sabre were the RCAF Golden Hawks. The Golden Hawks were originally formed in 1959, with the intention of operating for a single year. They were created to mark the 50th anniversary of powered flight in Canada and the 35th anniversary of the RCAF. Their popularity was so great that it was decided to continue them until officially being disbanded on February 7, 1964.
Leading Edge Models first printed these decals in 1995 on two sheets of decal paper. Now, they have decided to re-release the markings for this popular F-86 subject. Decal options are given for three aircraft:
- Sabre Mk 6 23651 circa 1962
- Sabre Mk 6 23465 circa 1962
- Sabre Mk 6 23651 circa 1963
The decals are printed in perfect register with a minimum of carrier film. They appear to be very thin and I am sure that they will be of little difficulty when applying them to your 1/32nd scale Hasegawa Sabre. The Golden Hawks were painted Sheffield Luxor Pale Gold which may be difficult to find. Resin antenna and fuselage scoops are also included that were applicable to the Golden Hawk Sabre's that were produced by Canadair.
Leading Edge have also included two large pages of very detailed instructions with their decal sheet. The first page portrays overall views of the aircraft giving elaborate details about decal application and painting. Page two includes information on the modifications required to build a Golden Hawk Sabre Mk 6. Pilot's manual illustrations of the cockpit and a black and white photograph of the 1962 team complete the page.
If you want your Sabre to look different from the rest, try this option. I rate this product from Leading Edge Models with five out of five stars.
© Mark Proulx
This review was published on Saturday, July 02 2011; Last modified on Wednesday, May 18 2016