Sheet:

Aeromaster 48-544 for the A-1 Skyraider

Units: VA-52, 115, 165

Price

$9.50 ($7.50 at NA Hobbies)

Reviewer:

Scott Van Aken

Seems like the A-1 has gotten some renewed interest from the decal makers as here is a new one from Aeromaster. This one is for the USN versions in gull grey and white. You have two real choices for this model and those are the Monogram and Tamiya kits. ESCI did a 1/48 SpAD as well, but it is not only a bit difficult to find, but inferior to the two others in overall detail.

First is the VA-165 CAG bird from 1962 with the colors in the tail as well as the usual green chevrons of the unit.

Next is the rather plain VA-115 bird from the USS Hancock in the mid-1960's. This one is rather interesting as the upper wing is covered with the little 'fireball' markings.

Finally is the VA-52 CAG bird, also from the late 1960's. The color in this one is in the fuselage stripe and tail markings.

All of these A-1 units eventually transitioned to the A-6, though only VA-115 survived long enough to continue on to the F-18 Hornet.

Not shown is a half sheet with insignia and some other common markings.

Review sheet courtesy North American Hobbies, where you can get everything at 20-30% below retail.

If you would like your product reviewed fairly and quickly by a site that has well over 150,000 visitors a month, please contact me or see other details in the Note to Contributors.