The latest edition of Random Thoughts arrived on my doorstep a day or so back, and as usual, itis a superb issue that covers a variety of subjects. This edition contains the last of the promised decals for a CF-101B Voodoo in both 1/48 and 1/72 scale. I like these IPMSC decals and am sorry to see them end for now.

Once past the editorial and the chapter stuff, there are a couple pages of photos from the IPMS UK event that feature Canadian subjects. Then a set of color markings for the Canadian Sherman III featured in last edition's decals.

The first build article is a Canadian Beaufighter by Simon Hopkins using the very nice Tamiya kit . Simon added detail to the kit to make it look that much nicer.

Moving to a Hungarian SPG, the 40/43 Zrinyi II, Stephen Bathy builds the CZ Model 1/35 resin kit of this interesting vehicle.

Back at 1/48 aircraft we have a Ju-52 floatplane conversion using the Revell kit. Jim Knight used MDC floats for this one and I have to say that the result is quite impressive.

The next article took a lot of work by Tony Whittingham, but the results are spectacular. Tony put much effort and aftermarket into the Revell/Matchbox 1/72 Victor to build an early Blue Steel carrying Victor B.2.

Staying with aircraft, we have Vic Scheuerman's very impressive Matchbox 1/72 CF-101B Voodoo. Only Vic could take what is agreed to be a less than sterling kit and turn it into a masterpiece. The article includes three pages of profiles.

Finally, Ron Bell converts the Airfix 1/72 M3 Lee/Grant into a Canadian Ram Mk.I, and a very nice job he did on it.

In all another outstanding issue and well worth the price of admission. If you aren't a member; join. You don't have to be Canadian. You can get details via the IPMS Canada website.

March 2011

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