1/32 Grumman F8F-1 Bearcat

At long last, someone has seen fit to give large scale modelers a 1/32 Bearcat. The ultimate in US Navy piston-engines aircraft deserves the ultimate kit, and Trumpeter does a pretty good job. Cockpit detail is very good, the engine is an outstanding model in its own right, plus we are given a full engine accessory compartment, radio gear for behind the cockpit, detailed gear bays and landing gear, full gun bays, and a folded wing option. Most of this detail will be visible after the model is assembled. Trumpeter also provides four HVAR, two bombs, and a centerline drop tank. Photo-etched details and decals for two aircraft round out the model. Surface detailing of panel lines and lots of rivets is recessed and petite; however, Bearcats were largely spot welded, not riveted. A generous application of surfacer or primer will help out here. Markings are for B/100 of VF-19, the CAG bird for Air Group 19, and L/13 of the USNR at Akron, Ohio in 1952.