A new kit from HobbyBoss this year is the A-4M Skyhawk with new parts, specific for the “M” version. Previously released HobbyBoss kits are the A-4E & F in 72nd scale.

In the Box

This kit comes with 6 sprues with two (2) brand new ones that are different from previous A-4 kits (A-4E & F versions). New sprues are D and F. Remolded/Common sprues are B, C & G (2X). The plastic is molded in light gray and the sprues are individually wrapped in clear bags. Parts count is over 160 pieces. Most of the parts come from the ordnance sprue, G, which has 45 pieces, each (90 total).

Instructions are formatted in a simple booklet format stapled down the center and has 8 steps.

Decals represent Low-Vis markings for the following:

Every year we have so many choices of calendars to choose from but finding the perfect calendar can be a challenge. With the Cross & Cockade 2023 calendar, you get a calendar with beautiful prints in a perfect size of 11.7” (300mm) x 8.3” (210mm) with spiral binding so each month stays flat to the wall.

The 2023 calendar starts with January 2023 with one month per page. Each page has a beautiful illustration of WWI aviation with monthly calendar below. Each illustration and artist is listed on the last page of the calendar. There is another listing of each artist with their web site or email address.

The set is part of a new line of 3D printed 1/35 scale accessories. The kit contains one instruction sheet, photo etched straps and a one 3D printed part with four weapons on supports.

To begin, I primed the weapons using Tamiya Fine Surface Primer while they were still on the supports. Next, I air brushed them with a base coat using AK Interactive Gunmetal.

I removed the first weapon by cutting the supports at the bottom due to the tight fit and to prevent unnecessary damage to the gun. Once it was free, I then carefully removed the figures see picture 7.

Scale Aircraft Conversions continues to carve its own particular niche in the modeling market by providing metal replacements for some of the more fragile parts of aircraft models in a range of scales, these mostly being landing gear and other assorted paraphernalia. This set is no exception, offering direct replacement parts for both the main and tail landing gear, as well as the aerial mast, for any of the 1/32nd scale P-40s offered by Trumpeter.

Made in the typical cleanly cast white metal, this set includes 12 parts and all are direct replacements for the plastic items in the kit, providing sturdy gear well able to support the model, and being metal, can also be gently adjusted to accommodate any slight inconsistencies in the model. The aerial mast and tail gear are particularly welcome additions as the kit items are somewhat fragile and prone to breakage.

Background

A Ram Air Turbine (RAT) is commonly found on modern aircraft – both military and civilian -- and is used only in emergency situations. In the event of the loss of primary and auxiliary power sources, the RAT will be deployed to power vital systems of the aircraft such as flight controls, hydraulics, and instrumentation.

The AIRES Ram Air Turbine featured in this review is designed for the 1/48 Tamiya F-4B Phantom II. For review purposes, I used a spare fuselage of this kit.

In terms of the practicality of using this accessory with your Tamiya F-4B Phantom II build, you would want to use it if your intention is to pose the plane in maintenance mode. This is due to the fact that the RAT would only be opened up for maintenance purposes while the plane is on the ground (or if there is an in-flight emergency).