Caracal Models has released a decal sheet for the 1/48 Hasegawa A-4M. This decal set includes three sheets with markings for two airframes in Brazilian Navy service. One option is a special scheme to celebrate the Skyhawk’s 15 years of service in the Brazilian Navy. The sheet provides the full markings and enough stencils to build both of the two options:

• Brazilian Navy, N-1004 (Special Scheme)
• Brazilian Navy, N-1017

As the AF-1s are former Kuwaiti A-4KUs, the instruction sheet describes how to convert the standard A-4M or A-4KU kits into the AF-1. In most cases, the conversion process is just using alternate parts already provided with the kit.

Having built a few A-4s myself, I’ve always struggled with any decal that has to be applied over the refueling probe. Caracal has created an excellent solution for this problem in the design of this sheet. The sheet indicates where to cut the surrounding decal, which you then place above and below the probe. Finally, the sheet provides you with an extra decal that you wrap around the probe itself to complete the look. Simple and easy!

Being a Cartograf-printed sheet, you know you’ll get quality, thin, and opaque decals. They are very glossy on the sheet, and they have very little transparent carrier film around them, minimizing the chances for silvering.

I want to point out that the MSRP includes free US shipping. International shipping is only $3 more. It should also be noted that the instruction sheet it is actually a full-color booklet printed on glossy paper. It contains side views of each airplane, plus generic top and bottom views.

This sheet is highly recommended.

I would like to thank Caracal Models and IPMS/USA for the review sample.