Academy's 1/48 scale
T-33A Shooting Star

by Roland Sachsenhofer

T-33A Shooting Star

Hobby Boss' 1/48 scale MIG-17PFU Fresco is available online from Squadron.com

The derivation of Lockheed’s F-80 is obvious: first flown in 1948 and built over 5690 times in the US, Canada and Japan until 1959, the T-33 was composed as a two seat variant of the USAFs first fighter-bomber. As a widely used jet trainer the “T-Bird” soon enjoyed great popularity. It´s high performance and state of the art layout made this type even suited for combat duties.

“Red Devil” is such a combat ready T-33, flown by the 67th FBS, 18th FBW in Osan during the last year of the Korean War.

The Academy kit uses the old Hobbycraft parts, which are of nearly perfect fit and convincing dimensions. The kits deficiency can be found in the inadequate detailing of the huge cockpit area, the same has to be said about the wheel wells. Even the thick material of the clear parts reveals this circumstance. I decided to use some spare etched parts and various wires and cables to get a more accurate appearance.

Even saying this I would really like to recommend this uncomplicated –and inexpensive- kit. It prepares an easy and pleasant modelling experience for the beginner and provides a playground for the more experienced or ambitious modeller.

And, at least but not last, it allows you to put an accurate representation of one of the most popular jet trainer of the western world into your showcase.

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Thumbnail panels:

If you are interested in the building process and the kit, please have a look at the JAM forum.

As ever, remarks will be appreciated: ro.sachsenhofer@gmx.at

Model, Images and Text Copyright © 2014 by Roland Sachsenhofer
Page Created 11 December, 2014
Last Updated 11 December, 2014

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