From the Phoenix Scale Publications website, “Phoenix Scale Publications is a partnership of four people who have worked in the modelling and aviation press for many years and have come together to produce two brand-new, high-quality modelling titles and a new book series – for modellers, by modellers – with each partner bringing their own unique talents.”

This Air Profile Book is authored by Andy Evans, who, during his 40-year career has been involved with five aviation and modelling magazines, as well as an author to more articles. His accomplishments include over 60 aviation and modelling books to his name.

Model aircraft displayed wheels down are susceptible to damage from the weight of the model on the plastic landing gear. There have been many after market solutions and among the leaders is Scale Aircraft Conversions from Royse City, Texas, who have been answering modelers’ prayers since 1990. Their white metal landing gear is designed to bear the weight of the model and complement the detailed non-load bearing plastic parts. Their extensive range covers white metal landing gear from 1/144 to 1/18 scale aircraft.

The V-22 Osprey first took flight in 1999 and there are currently 400 Osprey aircraft in service. Models of the V-22 Osprey are represented in various scales, with this white metal landing gear set in 1/48 scale. This set is manufactured for the Hobby Boss kit (No. 81769). As a ground pounder, I have a deep affinity for aircraft that support ground combat operations. And while I don’t have the Hobby Boss kit in my stash, there is the Italeri kit (No. 2622).

About the Subject (from Wikipedia)

“The M3 Stuart/Light Tank M3, was an American light tank of World War II. An improved version of the tank entered service as the M5 in 1942 to be supplied to British and other Commonwealth forces under lend-lease prior to the entry of the U.S. into the war. Afterwards, it was used by U.S. and Allied forces until the end of the war.

Although the main criticism from units using the Stuarts was that it lacked firepower, the improved M5 series kept the same 37 mm gun. The M5 gradually replaced the M3 in production in 1942. Total M5 and M5A1 tank production was 8,884; an additional 1,778 M8 75 mm howitzer motor carriages based on the M5 chassis with an open-top turret were produced”.

URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M3_Stuart

The Subject (Source - Wikipedia)

"The Type 16 maneuver combat vehicle (MCV) equips designated combat units. Due to its light weight and small size, it is designed for easy deployment (by aircraft if needed) allowing rapid movement on narrow roads and in built-up areas in response to various contingencies. Despite its small size and light armor, it can successfully attack much larger armored fighting vehicles as well as personnel, using its large caliber gun.

Main armament: 105 mm L/52 gun (developed by Japan Steel Works)

Secondary armament: 12.7 mm (0.5 in) M2 Browning machine gun, 7.62 mm NATO coaxial Sumitomo Type 74 machine gun (replacing M2 Browning) Type 96 40 mm Automatic grenade launcher or FN Minimi 5.56 mm NATO light machine gun".

URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Type_16_maneuver_combat_vehicle

The Subject

The M8 light armored car was a 6×6 armored car that saw service from 1943 by US and British forces until the end of World War II.

Designed and built by Ford Motor Company it was intended as a replacement for the M6. Because it had tires instead of treads, it had great speed at 55 mph on open roads and was very good in support roles as a recon vehicle. It wasn’t without its drawbacks however. Crews put sandbags on the ¼” thick floor to protect them from mines. It was also awkward in wooded areas and rough terrain.

Exported widely, it was still in service with some countries in 2006.

The Item

If you want to bring your M8 model kit to the next level, this excellent photoetch/detail set is just the thing for you. This extensive PE sheet has most of the appliqués that can be added to the kit to provide a fully detailed rendering of the M8.