Two Bobs Aviation Graphics

1/48 F-14B/D VF-143/213 Last of the Tomcats 3 decal sheet 

Product #48-101

Product Article by Ken Middleton on Aug 10  2005

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Here's a review of a new 1/48 sheet from Twobobs.  

Two complete aircraft are represented in special unit markings.  Retro paint schemes on both of these jets commemorate the twilight of the F-14s career in the US Navy

Jets included:

  • F-14B 162926 VF-143 May 2005
  • F-14D 164602 VF-213 May 2005

These 2 jets were painted in retro schemes using Light Gull Grey. VF-143's F-14B was flown to Bradley International Airport in Connecticut in March 2005, to be displayed at the New England Air Museum. It is now on display there. VF-143 has transitioned to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, and is now designated VFA-143.

A note on the walkways for the VF-143 jet. The instructions show dark ones on top of the intakes, though the jet seemed to have the same color as the jet, but a flat finish as opposed to the gloss of the rest of the jet.

 

VF-213 is one of the 2 last F-14 squadrons, and will depart on one last cruise that will return in the early part of 2006.

The blue on the real F-14D is FS15180, but as noted on the instructions, there is no model paint match for it. FS35183 is called out instead.

Recommended Kits:

  • Hasegawa F-14A/B
  • Italeri F-14A/B
  • Monogram F-14A
  • Black Box Cockpit
  • Aires Wheel Bay
  • Aeroclub Ejection Seat
  • Verlinden Ejection Seat
  • EZ Mask Set

Dave Brown and Dave Teker provided great references. AFCM Johnathan Seabolt from VF-213 provided technical assistance.

The decals are in-register, clear and are beautifully printed. The nose art are 2 piece decals ensuring proper registry. There are 2 sheets of decals included, the main sheet pictured, and a smaller sheet with the walkways, color stripes and other stencils.

The instruction sheet has 4-view drawings to assist in decal placement and complex paint schemes. Also, paint colors are called out by several different brands.

Additional photo references:

This sheet is available through http://www.twobobs.net/ and select US Hobby Shops.  Overseas customers can purchase these from Twobobs site or through Twobobs network of overseas distributors.  Remember, shipping is always FREE to US Customers at Twobobs!! 

Ken

Photos and text © by Ken Middleton