[ac4313]

Just got the "George Bush" TBM1-C (HA1201) and the A-10A "Mil Killer" (HA1302) today, and all I have to say is WOW and WOW!!! If you haven't ordered these, run don't walk! Of course, that's just my humble opinion. Pics to follow as soon as I can find my camera cable :P

[easy8]

How do the panel lines look to you?

easy8

[ac4313]

In my opinion, the panel lines on the TBM are quite fine and subtle, the lines on the A-10 a bit more pronounced. I wouldn't say overdone at all. I personally like the panel lines, so I might not be the best person to ask .

[PappyB]

I like them quite a bit too! The panel lines are unfortunate, however, but they are not as glaring as those you see on FOV and IXO models -- not by a long shot. I like the grimy, "used" look of the HM models overall. I just wish they'd try a gray wash that's more subtle, rather than use the black. Maybe someday!

They're much more subtle on the TBM, due to the color scheme, than the A-10.

Lots o' pics of the TBM here, for those that are interested:

http://www.diecastace.com/review_HM_avenger.html

[ac4313]

Thanks for the pics PappyB. A grey wash does sound like a good idea, perhaps HM will give it a try. I would probably stop buying their planes if they did away with the lines altogether though. I know they are a big no-way for some folks, I just think they add alot to the model.

[PappyB]

Originally Posted by ac4313

Thanks for the pics PappyB. A grey wash does sound like a good idea, perhaps HM will give it a try. I would probably stop buying their planes if they did away with the lines altogether though. I know they are a big no-way for some folks, I just think they add alot to the model.

I like that they're trying something different, don't get me wrong -- I too would rather have them as they are, then none at all I think. I do wish they had a few moving parts though..

I'm very happy to finall see an A-10 in the scale!

[STARMAN 352ND]

Well thanks guys for the info on the latest release from Hobby Master.
Can't wait for mine to come in.
JP

[b-huj]

I have to agree it is an impressive model the A-10, it's the fist in 1/72 scale, but I would also like to see a grey or subtler panel washing.

What made me back off from the A-10 was the stabs. I thought (and I may be wrong, but I don't think so) they were supposed to be horizontal, left and right on the same horizontal line, but no, HM decided they should droop down...maybe some surgery (knife and superglue) could fix it, but I can wait for future relases...altough that sharks mouth is so damn enticing.

[RedBaron]

Since this is a later version (aka Bush's ride) in 1944, I believe the design had changed from a single nose 30 cal to a pair of wing-mounted 50's. That being the case, the model is correct.

http://www.americanairpowermuseum.com/htm/avenger.htm

Summary

The Grumman designed Avenger replaced the Devastator as the torpedo plane used by the U.S. Navy. It saw it's first combat at the battle of Midway where it was savaged by Japanese fighters. It wasn't until later battles that it made it's mark in the Pacific war and in the Atlantic where it assisted in devastating the German U-boat fleet. It could attack with either a torpedo, standard bombs, or in the case of anti-sub patrols, depth charges.

President George Bush flew TBM's off the carrier "San Jacinto" in World War II. While he on his 58th mission, he was shot down in September of 1944 and survived to become President of the United States of America.

Distinguishing characteristics include a long internal torpedo bay and a revolving turret for a rear-facing gunner. Many Avengers were manufactured by General Motors Eastern Aircraft Division under the designation TBM Avenger to allow Grumman to focus on the manufacturing of Hellcats.

Specifications


Type: Torpedo Bomber
Crew: 3 (pilot, bomb-aimer, radio operator/gunner)
Armament: two wing-mounted .50 cal machine guns
one .50 cal machine gun in dorsal turret
one .30 cal machine gun in ventral position
up to 2000 lbs. of weapons (bombs/torpedo)