July/August Hobby Master Items

[tmanthegreat]

I've been on a binge lately with some of the latest Hobby Master items (American Grenadier, the Flying Mule, and my local Hobbytown USA store should be happy )

In particular, I'd like to recommend the latest F-5 repaint "USAF Le Bourget 65." I got this from American Grenadier's ebay store. The scheme just looks perfect for the F-5 and while it was a factory demonstrator show-scheme, its reminiscent of those flashy 50's/60's silver USAF paintjobs. The model comes with a ton of different ordinance loadouts as well, which is fun. The model just strikes me as a lot more exciting than the S1 agressors release.

The new two-seat "Luke AFB" F-104D is also a rather unique piece. This took me by surprise when I saw it and the tandem seats sold me. Rather neat to see HM do this with the F-104 tooling. It was my first Hobby Master F-104 and I like what they did with the model.

Then came the 1:48 scale P-51. I've been wanting to get one of these for probably a year now, but had to wait for just the right scheme... Not too wierd, not too flashy, or dull. I found it with Bud Anderson's Old Crow, which has always been a favorite of mine. I did not get the Signature Series version, even though my Hobbytown had one, but went for the cheaper version - its the same model afterall! The HM 1:48 P-51 tooling is fantastic. A new gem for the collection.

Now to await the Stearman

[Heer]

Although I am strictly an armour guy, I have been increasingly interested in 1/144 HM's Ju-52. I really do wish that HM would release a Ju-52 in the scheme of Hitler's personal plane. If HM does that, that Ju-52 will be my first aircraft in my collection. Just my honest suggestion.

[gouchy]

Heer,

I've heard this line many times from collectors ... it does not stop at one!

[AMERICAN_GRENADIER]

thank you! we have reordered 3 times already great looking f-5

[snake]

Some more great releases coming down the pipeline from HM, including the F-106, and F-101, to complete the Century Series.

And their 1/48 scale models are well done, and the Griffon engined Spits are a personal favourite. Even have bubble canopy, and clipped wing versions.

Definitely keeping the diecast 1/48 scale alive, and much better than the Franklin Mint line. Although FM prices have really started to climb, as they are not being made anymore.

My top choice for HM models would be the F-4{ now in something like 20 schemes}, and the F-111. Although the F-102 is also a fantastic mold.

Hobby Master have become "top dog" {sorry Corgi} in the diecast industry. Although I regard Century Wings to be a better line, but more of a niche market.