Reviewed by Brett Green

Yellow Wings Decals are available online from Squadron

Yellow Wings' latest 1/32 scale decal release provides markings for a selection of F2A-2 Buffalos aboard Lexington and Saratoga in 1941. These were amongst the last of the vibrant Yellow Wing era schemes, in the "Neutrality Patrol" period before the outbreak of the Pacific War. This sheet also includes a single early example of the new gray scheme too.

Three specific markings schemes are offered (2-F-13 from Lexington with Lemon Yellow tail surfaces; 3-F-17 from Saratoga with a White tail); and a non-spec Blue Gray and Gray specimen, 02, from a USN Training Squadron in early 1942. Other aircraft may be modelled by swapping digits from the supplied code numbers.

It is pleasing that all markings are supplied for the three aircraft, including national markings for the wings and fuselage, red and white rudder stripes, propeller tips and logos, ample stencils plus fuselage and wing bands in Willow Green. Black stripe borders are also supplied for the cowl bands. It would be impractical for Yellow Wings to provide decals for the cowl colour due to the compound curves, but model paint colour matches are offered to ease the painting task.

As with all of Yellow Wings Decals products, the six pages of instructions provide extensive  documentation comprising tables, drawings and specifications. Each marking scheme has its own three-view black and white drawing. Artwork is by well-known Hyperscale contributor Rich Dann.

Additional information includes a table that lists data about all F2A-1/2s (not just those aboard Lexington and Saratoga) by Bureau number with their assigned units and delivery dates; a table specifying the Squadron colours, bands and chevrons for all aircraft aboard Lexington by Serial Number and Squadron Assignment and, finally, a list of suggested model paint matches to official United States Navy and United States Marine Corps colours (Testors, Tamiya, and Gunze).

The suggested kit is the Special Hobby 1/32 scale F2A2 Buffalo.

The decals, printed by Microscale, are supplied on two sheets, and are in perfect register.

Yellow Wings has delivered an excellent, well-researched and comprehensive package for the last of this stubby little US Navy fighter.

Highly Recommended.

Thanks to Yellow Wings Decals for the review sample.

Review Copyright © 2007 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 11 February, 2007
Last updated 24 December, 2007

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