As you have undoubtedly read in the past, the F4U-1 Corsair was a bit of a problem when it came to landing on carrier decks. It bounced too much. A result of that was that the first combat use of the Corsair went to the Marines.

Delighted with getting something new for a change, the Marines made very good use of the aircraft, especially in the Solomon Islands, where they had a chance to fight the Japanese while Japanese air power was still a major force to be reckoned with.

This sheet contains markings for four 'birdcage' Corsairs. They were called that because of the amount of framing on the canopies of the early F4U. One of the changes made to improve the carrier suitability of the F4U was a taller canopy with fewer frames. At this time, the Marines were not concerned about that, just wanted something more potent than their Wildcats.

All aircraft are in the early war scheme of blue-grey upper and light gull grey lower surfaces. All aircraft have some sort of nose art on them as well, which is nice. There are enough roundels for all four aircraft and enough common markings for two. By the end of their tour, I would imagine that several may have been repainted or at least touched up as the tropics played havoc with paint jobs. I have seen photos of some pretty sorry looking Corsairs from this time period!

All aircraft are from VMF-213 on Guadalcanal in 1943. Since they are all basically the same, I'll just give aircraft number and the name of the plane.

#11 is called 'defab', #10 is 'Gus's Gopher' and has 8 kills. It was flown by Lt. Wilbur Thomas. #20 is 'Eagle', and #8 is 'Dangerous Dan'/'Eight Ball'.

Four very good subjects for the Hasegawa 1/72 Corsair. While you are at it, pick up the True Details cockpit and wheels for this kit. They really help it look sharp!

Review copy courtesy of me and my wallet!!!

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