Tamiya 1/48 F4U-1 Corsair
Here’s my version of Tamiya’s 1/48 F4U-1 ‘birdcage’ Corsair, finished in the nondescript markings of a Marine squadron based in the Solomons in 1943.
This build was almost straight ‘out-of-the-box’ – the only things added were seat belts, and some brake lines to the main gear. These kits are real treats to build – if you are careful, you won’t have to fill a single seam. I know a Marine Corsair based in the Solomons would be probably not have the wings folded, but I really like the look of a plane with dropped flaps, folded wings, open canopy, etc. I also kept weathering to a minimum, mainly because I don’t know how to portray a heavily weathered effect properly.
These Tamiya Corsairs are clearly the best in 1/48 scale, maybe in ANY scale – I just wish they’d do a -4 version…
7 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Craig Abrahamson said on March 27, 2013
Outstanding, Mr. Tarter…your attention to detail is superb!
Drew Tarter said on March 28, 2013
THanks, Craig – much appreciated.
Tom Cleaver said on March 28, 2013
It could be a Corsair that hasn’t been sent to the Solomons yet. 🙂
If you look through the articles here, you’ll find a Marine Solomons Corsair I did. If you check it out, you’ll see that it’s not really as hard as you’ve told yourself it is to get that look. If you have the skill and talent to do this (and you obviously do), going the distance isn’t really hard at all. A little research looking at photographs is all it takes.
Excellent model here.
Drew Tarter said on March 28, 2013
Thanks for the encouragement, Tom. I’ve long admired your work, so I’ll be sure to check out your Corsair build on here.
neil foster said on March 28, 2013
Really nice job Drew.
N.
Drew Tarter said on March 28, 2013
Thanks, Neil – Your Sea Fury is outstanding, as is your other work.
Gary Brantley said on April 2, 2013
Very nice Corsair!
Gary
Ray B. Hall USMC said on May 19, 2013
Drew, the details on this model is of the utmost perfection, from the gauges/instruments, to the “tape” on the cowling .. it looks like it could be photos from an air “fly-in”show !!! the photography of the bird is … as my granddaughter would say .. FANTABULOUS !!!
Drew Tarter said on May 19, 2013
Ray, thanks for the kind words!