Aviaeology AOD240071: Vital Storm part 1

PRICE:

CDN $23.69 plus shipping

UNITS:

Many

REVIEW &
PHOTOS :

Scott Van Aken

NOTES:

This latest sheet from Aviaeology is the first of their 1/24 sheets on the Hurricane. These subjects are the same as on previous 1/72 and 1/48 sheets, but due to the size of the markings, has been limited to three subjects. There is a wide selection of roundels and fin flashes, though one can really only build one of the three options without some help from the kit or aftermarket. Frankly, I cannot see many doing more than one 1/24 Hurricane. For kits, the Airfix and Trumpeter ones will probably be what most will choose.

In this set, there are two planes from 242 Squadron. One is W.L. "Willie" McKnight, a Canadian who flew this plane from Coltishall in December of 1940. Standard markings with his personal marking on the fuselage side.

The other 242 Sq plane is as it was when based in France during June 1940. Pilot unknown.

The third option is a Malta based 261 Squadron plane from December 1940. Pilot is F.N. Robertson and this aircraft is most likely in the Tropical Land scheme. Alternate white and grey code letters are provided as the actual shade is unknown.

The instructions are quite comprehensive and provide views of both sides as well as notes on each aircraft. As often times the photos of these planes are only of one side or only partial, some information is speculative, but all options are provided to the builder.

The decals themselves are superbly printed with no registration glitches and vibrant colors. You'll notice that the darker red is provided in case you think it more likely. Not much has been done in 1/24 scale so this one should be most welcome.

December  2010

My thanks to www.aviaeology.com for the review sheet. You can get yours direct.

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