Detail and Scale Sheet 0648
1/48 F-4J/S Phantom II

Detail and Scale is well known for its superb books on various US Aircraft. They also dabbled in the decal market for a while until it proved not to be a profitable as they had hoped.  Probably their best sheet was one of formation or 'slime' lights for various modern aircraft. It was the only sheet that got the color right and was a huge success.  

Another of their sheets was this one on special Navy F-4 Phantoms released in 1984.  The research into each subject is impeccable as you would expect from Bert Kinzey, and the sheet includes photos of the actual aircraft to assist modelers in placement (see the representative section below). Though the sheet is designed for the Hasegawa F-4J, I am sure it will work equally well on the Monogram or ESCI Phantoms.

There are three subjects on this sheet.  The first one is a Ferris painted MiG killer from VF-301 in 1983. A complete painting guide including FS numbers is given. I have done this particular scheme in 1/72 using a Fujimi F-4S and it is striking. The second scheme is for an F-4J from VF-74 in 1981. It depicts an aircraft painted to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Phantom use with the squadron. A mask is given for the black anti-glare section so the yellow outline can be properly installed. The final scheme is for an all-white aircraft of VX-4. Called the White Bunny, this aircraft is a bit unusual in having all the standard markings in grey instead of black. None of the three aircraft have a full stencil load so that should appeal to those who detest putting them on their aircraft.

Since this sheet has been out of production for such a long time. It might be a little difficult to find. However it isn't impossible as I found this sheet at a swap meet. Highly recommended for the Phantom Modeler.

Scott Van Aken