Double Ugly Decals has picked another excellent unit for their second choice in 1/48 decals. This one has a number of very nice options in light gull grey and white; six to be exact. These cover all the Phantom variants flown by VF-41 before they converted to the Tomcat in the mid/late 1970s.

This set of sheets, for set it is, comes with an eight page booklet full of color profiles, four views and photographs of most of the aircraft. You can do two of the markings options using the insignia and data sheet; probably more with kit decals and some painting.

It covers the full history of the Phantom II and VF-41. There are three F-4B options, all on the USS Independence from 1964and 1965, which includes their Vietnam cruise of 1965. There is a single F-4J from the 1970 Med cruise aboard the USS FDR. Then, like many Phantom units, the squadron transitioned to the F-4N which many J jocks felt was a bit of a step backwards as the Ns were simply upgraded B models. The two we are offered are the more colorful of the options with one being a Bicentennial plane from 1976 and the other a CAG bird from 1977, still operating from the USS FDR.

The two sheets are superbly printed by Boaagency. In addition to markings information, the instructions provide a full list of currently available kits and conversions/accessories available. It is not totally encompassing as there are currently out of production items that may also be appropriate, for those who hoard! (Like Monogram F-4J kits) In all, it is a superlative sheet that no USN F-4 Phantatic will want to be without.

My thanks to Double Ugly Decals for the review sheet. You can find these at your local hobby shop and if not, ask them to order them for you. 

This same set of subjects is available for 1/72 builders.

June 2011

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.