The F4F-4 Wildcat was one of the most important early fighter aircraft of World War II for the United States Navy. Built by Grumman, the Wildcat was not a match for the Zero in maneuverability, but was tough and dependable. The superior training of U.S. Navy pilots also enabled the Wildcat to cope quite successfuly with the Zero. Although having to bow later to the Hellcat and Corsair, the Wildcat was an important stop-gap aircraft that certainly helped us in our war against Japan.
BBI's latest 1/32 scale aircraft does the aircraft justice. This superb model is one of BBI's best effort and is on par with anything put out by that company or 21st Century Toys so far. It defintely surpasses the quality of the FOV aircraft. Here is a review of this wonderful model in a great mid war Pacific paint scheme.
IMG]http://i205.photobucket.com/albums/bb24 ... 120270.jpg[/IMG]
This is a picture of the whole aircraft. The aircraft is painted in a standard blue and gray Pacific scheme with some light weathering applied throughout. Paint and marking application are flawless on this model.
This is a picture of the aircraft and its parts. The main fusealage is one piece, followed by the two main wings, two tailplanes, the wheels up piece, two drop tanks, barometer and radio mast and the pilot.
This picture shows the wing fit. The wing fit of this model is excellent. There are no gaps and the wings snap into position nice and firmly. They will not come loose. The wings do not fold and there are no moving surfaces. Although some will frown on this, this helps build a strong quality fitting wing
This picture shows the tailplanes. These have an interesting design. The right piece has a tab that fits into the tail, comes through and hooks into the left tailplane. Although this sounds bad, both pieces fit firmly and lock nicely.
This picture shows the pilot in the cockpit. He doesn't seem to fit with the canopy in the closed position, but he looks good with the canopy back anyway. I didn't force him in but probably could have. The painting and detail on the pilot figure is wonderfully done. He looks terrific!
This picture shows the extra drop tanks and radio mast, it also shows the wheels down piece. This piece fits firmly and locks in place nicely. The plane defintely won't fall off the gear. The drop tanks and small accessories are good for the model and look decent. The tabs on mine needed to be trimmed for them to fit tightly.
This picture shows the wheels up piece. This piece locks nicely and presents well. It locks so well that it was actually stuck on mine and I had to pry it loose. I only wish BBI would include stands with their models so you could display them wheels up. Given the complicated Wildcat landing gear, this two piece option was certainly the best option.
Picture of the completed model, beautiful fit and overall quality.
Closeup of the engine view and detail.
View from the back.
Top view of the Wildcat, the shape and look of the plane are excellent.
Overall this model is a very impressive offering from BBI. The detail, paint quality and overall appearence of the model are excellent. The model is also unique, as you more often see Hellcats and Corsairs. This model is an excellent compliment to the Dauntless and I only hope BBI continues to make these wonderful aircraft. My gripes are minor. I would have liked folding wings and working landing gear but given the complexity of both on the actual plane, I can understand the decision not to do this. The Wildcat is a great model!
Regards
Corey
Nevertheless, I'm excited by your review and cannot wait for my plane to arrive next week. Seems like its a winner, but then most BBI products usually are 
......boring