A few weeks ago the new Hobbycraft 1/72 F8F-1 Bearcat arrived in the mail. It is one of their Easy Assembly kits and pretty simple. The cockpit is modeled as part of the fuselage and the engine is integral with the cowl. (These are impressive moldings...I just wish the engine and cowl were separate pieces.) Gear and wheels are also one part, but there is decent detail in the wheel wells. It looks simple to assemble, is well molded, and a test fit shows good fit. Dr. Strangebrush from Model Paint Solutions pointed out something is quite right with the shape around the tail fillet...Hobby Boss didn't get the transition between the fillet and the rear fuselage quite right. In my opinion, it isn't a dealbreaker, but John did notice it right away. Decals are provided for the Beatle Bomb and a VF-3 Bearcat. I'll let the pictures do most of the talking and report back when it is finished.
I'm not sure what to think about this one. It would make a perfect starter model and it certainly will assemble quick and easy for us colour and markings guys. But I don't love the integral landing gear and wheels and I'm still not sure how I'll paint the engine. For those of use that are lazy it is probably the best Bearcat in 1/72. For those that love detail and want a bit better shape accuracy look for the defunct Attack Squadron Bear in resin or the Sword or Art Model short run kits.
How does one paint this? Other than very carefully that is...
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