[HotTrap429]

Hi guys,

Went to my local hobby shop today and saw they had a Franklin Mint Ira Kepford F4U Corsair for $45.00. Now I normally don't collect 1/48 scale models and I really don't want to start because I feel they cost way too much and are way too large. But I must admit my trigger button is itching to get this one. Question - is it really worth it? Remember, while I know my 1/72 models, when it comes to FM and 1/48 scale, I'm a novice. Thanks for the advice.

[hworth18]

Franklins 1/48 scale fighters are typically around $70 (unless on deep clearance) and I don't have one, but I think I remember seeing the Corsair listed as one of Franklins better molds.. I am sure someone that actually has one can give you a better review, but for the price (without shipping) it wouldn't be a bad deal..

[flyXwire]

I ordered the B11B403 F4U Corsair, Flotille Aeronavale, Suez Canal, Egypt, Suez Operation for $35 from TFM last night and anxiously awaiting it's arrival tomorrow. I've seen FM/A Corsairs up close and I believe they are nicely done for it's size. I'll state my overall impressions once I've actually held it in my hands.

[Cardinal]

The FM Corsair isn't bad. The problem I find with FM aircraft is that once you buy a Carousel 1 or Eagles Int. 1/48 piece of diecast you become a little more critical of them as they are somewhat mediocre in comparison. My advice would be to save the $$$ and put them towards a more sought after piece. In my opinion, 1 X Carousel 1 or EI = more than 2 X FM.

[jim]

Originally Posted by Cardinal

The FM Corsair isn't bad. The problem I find with FM aircraft is that once you buy a Carousel 1 or Eagles Int. 1/48 piece of diecast you become a little more critical of them as they are somewhat mediocre in comparison. My advice would be to save the $$$ and put them towards a more sought after piece. In my opinion, 1 X Carousel 1 or EI = more than 2 X FM.

I agree with Cardinal on this one.

I dont want to offend any FM collectors but Carousel are way ahead of FM. IMHO of course.

[chiefs70]

I would agree with Cardinal and Jim. I only have a few FMs and I chose them for two main reasons 1) I am a fan of Gunther Rall and only FM makes a 1/48 of his Bf 109 and 2) aircraft that C1 or EI haven't made such as the Dauntless. They aren't bad models for what I pay for them but I haven't paid anything near retail either.

[mustangdriver]

I have a good bit of the FM birds as well as the C1's and Eagles and such. Some of their stuff is awesome, and others are not. The Corsair is pretty good.

[Hornchurch]

Originally Posted by mustangdriver

I have a good bit of the FM birds as well as the C1's and Eagles and such. Some of their stuff is awesome, and others are not. The Corsair is pretty good.

I've gotta agree with M.D. on this one..........

I REALLY-RATE the F.M./Armour F.4-U Corsair , it's good (& I'm fussy)

I've got TWO of the Royal-Navy B.11 B.560 models = I rate it that much.

B.560 = Representing a/c serial No. "JS.478"


Put it another way - when I made plastic (injection-moulded) models I got rid of my Academy-Minicraft/Hasegawa F.4-U's (turfed 'em ALL out) & bought the magnificient Tamiya 1/48th versions instead..........THEN......

............... I bought my two F.M. F.4-U's AFTER my 13 x (erm, don't ask !) Tamiya birds.......

BTW, curious to know - I know some of their castings (i.e. Mosquito) are 'dire' but I'd love to know if Jim (our resident UK. P.40 buff) has actually got one of these.....????????

Those of you who HAVEN'T are in for a pleasant suprise !!!!!!!!

[Ara1]

Hi HotTrap,

I own about 15 Franklin Mint planes of all sizes. The molds are hit or miss, and opinions vary as to which are worth it or not. Overall, I love Franklin Mint's products.

My observation regarding your post is your hesitancy for 1/48 scale. Therefore I'll recommend no, don't buy the FM Corsair.

Also, I think a modern tool version will be out within 2 years, either by C1 or Hobby Master, and that will be the keeper in the 1/48 F4U realm.

Good luck!

[stalag8611]

Hi Hot Trap,
I can't comment directly on the Klepford F4U; however, I've the USMC VMA-323 version for years. In fact, it is second only to the
Shark Mouth FMB P-51 (also Korean War era) in my 26 1:48 issues in the total hanger. [I'm now fully into 1:72 due to space.]
I think you'd find it a good addition, but not at $80.00. Something closer to a $50.00 would fill the bill. Obviously, FM builds lack the detail of Carousel 1, but keep in mind they were the first guys at bat.