The HK B-17F & G are really nice kits. Much nicer than the venerable Monogram B-17G and the Revell B-17F, however there are some areas where I prefer the older kit. One of those areas is the engines.

There are a variety of companies that have made update sets for the engines. For me the best and easiest to use is this Aires set.

Packaged in the typical Aires cardboard box are four beautiful engines. The detail is exceptional with the cooling fins on the cylinders being the deal cincher for me. Included in the box are the four engines and four ‘banks’ of push rods with plenty of extras. There are also four spacers included. Also in the box is a fret of brass ignition leads for the cylinders. Illustrated instructions are also included.

The ICM Do-217N-1 is a nice kit but it could use some updates. One of the big ones is in the propeller blades and prop hub. The kit offering is not quite correct in shape and the prop blade profile is off slightly with the propeller tips being a little too pointy.

Quickboost recognized this and offers up this easy and convenient prop set. Included in the typical resealable bag with card stock backing are eight propeller blades and two spinners. The only thing missing is a tool to set the angle of the blades. Removal of the parts is simple enough. You will have to drill a center hole to mount the spinner with the props installed. This will require some brass, not included, or some other form of support. You could always just mount the prop spinners directly to the cowlings.

A note about the price of the calendar; The C&C website shows the price in Pounds Sterling and not in Euros.

The 2022 issue of the Cross & Cockade calendar continues the well-established tradition of past year’s calendars: that being of high quality with excellent artwork. As in past years, you are advised to order your copy now, and not wait. There may be a limited supply of these calendars and you do not want to miss out because you waited until the supply ran out.

According to Roger Tisdale of Cross & Cockade the profits from the sale of these annual Cross and Cockade International Calendars go to assist in the upkeep of the British Air Services Memorial at the St-Omer airfield in northern France”. This is a very worthy cause and deserving of your support. One can check out the St-Omer Memorial.