Thanks to Starfighter Decals, those who love to model the Yellow Wings era in 1/72 have some alternate markings to use on their kits. In this case, that kit is the Monogram 1/72 Boeing F4B-4. This is a kit that is not all that difficult to find and builds quickly into a very nice little model. On this sheet are four different options. These are all in light grey and silver with yellow upper wings. Interestingly, nonoe of these have colored empennages.

The sheet has two planes from two different squadrons.

The first unit is VF-3B aboard the USS Langley. The initial plane is 3-F-1 with a red fuselage band and a red upper wing chevron that is outlined in black as is the fuselage band. On this plane from 1934, the engine cover is red. The second option for this unit is 3-F-3, which also has a red chevron. This option is from 1932 and may or may not have had the 'US NAVY' on the lower wings. For this option, only the lower half of the engine cover was red.

The second unit is VF-6B aboard the USS Saratoga. 6-F-4 is the first plane. It has a white fuselage band, white upper wing chevron, and a white engine cowling. This and the second option are from 1934. The second option has a yellow fuselage band, cowling, and upper wing chevron.

These decals are superbly printed by Canuck Decals. There are enough insignia to do three of the four options.  

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

November 2014

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