Furball Decals FD 48007: MiG Masters, F-8 in Vietnam

During Vietnam, there were quite a few US aircraft carriers that were unable to operate the F-4 Phantom II. Basically, only the 'super carriers' had the capability. For those WWII era upgraded Essex class carriers, the fighter of choice was the F-8 Crusader.

As much press as the Crusader has gotten for being the 'last of the Gunfighters' (at the time it was felt that a gun was not needed as missiles should be able to do the job), quite a few of its successes in Vietnam were earned not with its four 20mm canon, but with the Sidewinder missile.

Over the years, there have been decal sheets for the F-8, but those have only offered a few options. Furball Aero Design has now produced what many will consider the ultimate Crusader sheet: offering 18 MiG killer planes along with 8 other important aircraft. I think they have pretty well covered all the MiG Killers on this one. The sheet is designed for the Hasegawa F-8, though these markings might also fit the Monogram kit for those who want to use that one. No guarantees, though.

There are two full size decal sheets provided. One is all black and includes nose numbers fin codes and other standard markings. The other has all the unique squadron markings and provides enough insignia and data markings for two aircraft. Those wishing to use more can always use the kit decals for this purpose.

Rather than give a long run-down on each individual marking, I'll just provide what units are included. These are VF-24, VF-51, VF-53, VF-111, VF-154, VF-162, VF-191, VF-211 and VMF-212. By far the most successful of these units was VF-211 followed by VF-24 so you will find more options for those two units than for all the others. Many of these options are for the earlier F-8C/H version. This is not kitted as the Hasegawa kit is an F-8E/J, so you will need to locate a conversion set to do the earlier Crusader.

All of these planes are in the then-standard scheme of flat light gull grey over gloss white with either white or black radomes and black nose anti-glare panel.

The instructions are quite comprehensive, providing information on load-out as well as any other differences in the airframe. A most complete data placement guide is also provided for you. Decals are superbly printed by Cartograf and are very colorful.

Regardless of which scheme you choose, you will be pleased with the results.

November 2014

Review sheet courtesy of http://furballaero-design.com. You can get yours now at this link.

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