This latest sheet from Euro Decals is one that should please a lot of modelers. It contains nine different markings options for Spitfires that operated over Malta. The majority of them are Spitfire Vc with a few Vband a Mk.IX thrown in the mix. Each of the options provides an interesting camouflage scheme with many of them being quite non-standard with others more appropriate for Seafires. All of the Mk.V options have a sand filter so you’ll have to choose a kit that includes this feature.

Option one is coded SN*A and was with 243 Squadron in 1942. It is dark Mediterranean blue on the upper surface with azure blue on the underside and an identification blue spinner.

Next is 3*M as seen on the USS Wasp during 1942. This one is in deck blue and intermediat blue over azure blue. Note that this aircraft has four cannon.

GL*T is with 185 Squadron and painted deep sky and dark slate grey over sky blue.

Here is a really slick idea for all types of model builders- a sanding stick with four different grits on one stick. From CRM Hobbies in Missouri comes a set of four sanding sticks with a stick having 600, 320, 240 and 150 grit on every stick. No digging around looking for a new stick as you polish up a seam, just flip it to the right one you need. As an added bonus, they are water proof. You can take them under a running sink while sanding or dip them in water and the grit stays in place. They are cushioned so they can go around corners too.

I was recently built the X-Plus Ultraman kit and used these to eliminate seams and polish and they worked great. I also used them in running water and also, no loss of grit and it polished up the seams well. They cleaned right up with water and a toothbrush like new.

And as an added bonus, shipping free for US customers.

This first release by ClearProp is an early F-86A-5 in the airplane's pre-Korean War configuration. Clear Prop has shown photos of the future releases which will be a pretty thorough coverage of the Early A & E models of the F-86 with the leading edge slats. The parts trees of the current release have two nose cones - one for the F-86A, and one that is scribed for the ranging radar positioned in the nose of the F-86E, which indicates a future E release! Clear Prop has declared their commitment to covering the early North American F-86 Sabre. The ‘Korean War’ F-86A-5 will be released by Christmas 2024, with an F-86E to follow in 2025, according to sources. The kit has delicate engraved surface detail, and the wing is correct for the slatted version since there is no “ledge” for the slats if retracted, like every Bf-109 kit or A-4 Skyhawk kit has.