Aviaeology AOD72007.1: Vital Storm part 1

PRICE:

CDN $11.89 plus shipping

UNITS:

Many

REVIEW &
PHOTOS :

Scott Van Aken

NOTES:

Also available in 1/48

This latest sheet from Aviaeology is on Hurricanes and lots of them. So many that the subject has been divided into two sections. These are all early Hurricanes from the Battle of Britain and beyong. Originally to be produced by another company, Aviaeology has decided to do it themselves.

In this sheet, there are options for eight aircraft. Of course, there are not enough insignia and data markings to do them all, but fortunately, finding RAF roundels is not a difficult task, especially in 1/72 so the dedicated Hurricane fan can do them all.

Though not in the order in the six page instructions, I'll go with how the cover is shown. By the way, though you get one in greyscale, the same stuff in full color is available on their web site.

First off is W.L. 'Willie' McKnight's plane from 242 Squadron in December 1940.

Next is A. Vasatko's plane with 312 Squadron in October of 1940

From 17 Squadron in July 1940 is L.W. Steven's Hurricane.

The black night fighter is from 85 Squadron, pilot unknown. Red data markings are provided for this option as well as dark red bits for the insignia and fin flash.

JX*B is A,V, 'Darkie' Clowes 1 Squadron aircraft from August 1940.

The lone Malta based plane is F.N. Robertson's plane with 161 Squadron in December 1940. This plane needs a sand filter. The aircraft letter is provided in both white and grey as its actual color in unknown.

Another 85 Squadron plane, this time in day colors is P. Townsend's  aircraft from September 1940. A second unit marking is provided if you should wish to use it.

Finally, a second 242 Squadron plane, pilot unkown, but based in France during June of 1940.

The instructions are quite comprehensive and provide views of both sides as well as notes on each aircraft. As often times the photos of these planes are only of one side or only partial, some information is speculative, but all options are provided to the builder.

The decals themselves are superbly printed with no registration glitches and vibrant colors. A truly great sheet and with the plethora of 1/72 Hurricane kits available to the modeler, should come in real handy.

December  2010

My thanks to www.aviaeology.com for the review sheet. You can get yours direct.

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