A popular subject with modelers has been the F-14 and it is no surprise that there are a number of kits, even in 1/144 scale from Dragon, Revell, LS, and others. For the most part, these kits are fairly accurate, though I do notice that when transitioning down to 1/144 scale, it seems that shapes tend to suffer a bit.

Starfighter Decals has chosen a very popular unit, VF-111 as the subject for this particular sheet. The sheet provided two complete markings sets for F-14A 161621 aboard the USS Carl Vinson in the early 1980s. Both are in overall gloss light gull grey, making painting quite easy.

You get full stencil and insignia markings for both aircraft. Actually, there is not a whole lot of difference between the two aside from italicized font for one and an outline to the shark mouth, names on the canopy, and part of the tail sunburst on the other. I would have liked to have seen the second option as a standard line bird and perhaps that may be done with other F-14 sheets.

These decals are ALPS printed and have a clear coat over them to protect them from damage, but one still needs to be careful. Only the weakest of setting solutions (Microscale) is recommended.

Thanks to www.starfighter-decals.com for the review sample

January 2008

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