Scale Aircraft Conversions (SAC) has provided the IPMS reviewer corps a set of 1/48^th scale metal landing gear for the Academy F4F-3/4 Wildcat. These parts are drop-in replacements and provide a more robust landing gear set given its metal properties.

In the Package

The metal pieces are packed in a clear blister package with cardboard backing. No instructions are provided.

The metal landing gear set is used as drop-in replacements for parts B4, B17, B23, B33, and B50 and can be referenced in the instructions on step 2.

The metal used is malleable and has some give to allow for any minor bending if needed. Also, seam lines will need to be cleaned up prior to painting just like the plastic kit parts.

For paints, use a good lacquer-based primer coat. This will allow the final color coats a surface to grab onto when applied. Super Glue (CA) or 2-part epoxy should be used to bond the metal parts to the plastic. Also, it is recommended to remove any paint at the attach points. This will allow a stronger bond since there is no paint to break away from the surface of the plastic or metal.

Conclusions

Overall, I would highly recommend this detail set to upgrade the Academy F4F-3/4 Wildcat kit. They are drop-in replacements and will make your Wildcat more durable with metal landing gear versus the kit provided plastic parts.

I want to thank Scale Aircraft Conversions for providing the Wildcat metal landing gear set and IPMS/USA for allowing me the opportunity to review.