Reviewed by Brett Green

Yellow Wings Decals are available online from Squadron

Yellow Wings' latest 1/32 scale decal release provides markings for a selection of F4F-3 Wildcats aboard Ranger and Wasp in early 1941. These were amongst the last of the vibrant Yellow Wing era schemes, in the "Neutrality Patrol" period before the outbreak of the Pacific War.

Three specific examples are offered (72-F-1 and 72-F-16 from Wasp with Black tail surfaces, and 41-F-18 from Ranger with Willow Green), but other aircraft may be modelled by swapping digits from the supplied code numbers.

It is pleasing that all markings are supplied for the three aircraft, including national markings for the wings and Neutrality Patrol stars for the fuselage, propeller tips and logos, ample stencils plus fuselage and wing bands in Insignia Red and Lemon Yellow. Black stripe borders are also supplied for the cowl bands. It would be impractical for Yellow Wings to provide decals for the cowl colour due to the compound curves, but model paint colour matches are offered to ease the painting task.

As with all of Yellow Wings Decals products, the seven pages of instructions provide extensive  documentation comprising tables, drawings and specifications. Each marking scheme has its own three-view black and white drawing. Artwork is by well-known Hyperscale contributor Rich Dann.

Additional information includes a table that lists the colours and markings worn by all F4F-3s (not just those aboard Ranger and Wasp) by Bureau number with their assigned units and delivery dates; tables specifying the Squadron colours, bands and chevrons for all aircraft aboard Wasp and Ranger organised by Serial Number and Squadron Assignment and, finally, a list of suggested model paint matches to official United States Navy and United States Marine Corps colours (Testors, Tamiya, and Gunze).

The suggested kit is the new Trumpeter 1/32 scale F4F-3 Wildcat.

The decals, printed by Microscale, are supplied on two sheets, and are in perfect register.

Yellow Wings has delivered an excellent, well-researched and comprehensive package for the last of the colourful US Navy fighters.

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to Yellow Wings Decals for the review sample.

Review Copyright © 2007 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 09 February, 2007
Last updated 24 December, 2007

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