[Cruver Collecter]

A while back I remember seeing that the Polikarpov I-16 might be one of Hobby Masters future models. Well if they put one out with the same quality and accuracy as their Buffalo, I am in big trouble (Would most likely picky up everyone they would put out). The I-16 was such a small fighter, that it would be perfect for 1/48th scale. With a wing span of 29ft 1 3/4in and fuselage of 19ft 8 1/8in would make for a model with wing span of close to 7 1/4 inches and a fuselage length 4 3/4 inches. Needless to say that even in 1/48th scale, this is a pretty small model. This model also has some interesting variations to consider, one in particular would be the variant that was equipped with skis. There is also a fairly large selection paint schemes with a nice variety of national markings too.

1. Ski equipped I-16



2. Conventional landing gear, minus gear doors plus rockets.



3. Some possible paint schemes.



4. Might be nice to have one of its Japanese opponents.



5. Sure would be nice to see the I-15 and the I-153 too (Fiat Cr 32 would be nice.).

[Saeta]

Cruver, I absolutely agree with you. It would be an excellent choice !

[djjeffhall]

I absolutely hate to agree with you, since I like to keep my collection all in 1:72 scale, but the I16 would probably be better in 1:48. There certainly are enough liveries to keep HM busy for a while.

[ZS-VAN]

I think it would be quite nice. Any chance they saw action against Buffalos?

[flyXwire]

If done in 1/48th scale, sure I will buy it!

[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by ZS-VAN

I think it would be quite nice. Any chance they saw action against Buffalos?

The I-16 and the Buffalo were never pitted against each other. It would be nice to have either a Nate, Claude, Fiat Cr 32, Heinkel He 51 or early mark Bf 109 to sit next to an I-16.

[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by djjeffhall

I absolutely hate to agree with you, since I like to keep my collection all in 1:72 scale, but the I16 would probably be better in 1:48. There certainly are enough liveries to keep HM busy for a while.

I actually think the Buffalo is fairly small in 1/48th, and the I-16 is even smaller. For its size 1/48th is probably the best scale to go with. I like to stick primarily with 1/72nd scale, but the smaller WWII fighters do look quite a bit better in 1/48th scale.

[fileasfog]

The I-16, I 15 and I 153 are my favourite planes and I also would be in trouble if HM got a diecast version of it because it would be hard to resist buying all of them. This comes frome someone who tries to only have one of each type.
I would buy them in 1/72 or 1/48 and if there were pilots I would be in diecast heaven.
I must say all the liveries shown previously are absolutely fabulous.
I specialy like the ski one.

Thanks for the pics!

[Cruver Collecter]

Originally Posted by fileasfog

The I-16, I 15 and I 153 are my favourite planes and I also would be in trouble if HM got a diecast version of it because it would be hard to resist buying all of them. This comes frome someone who tries to only have one of each type.
I would buy them in 1/72 or 1/48 and if there were pilots I would be in diecast heaven.
I must say all the liveries shown previously are absolutely fabulous.
I specialy like the ski one.

Thanks for the pics!

Sounds like we both like similar type aircraft. Since the I-16 was on the list of potential future projects, I am fairly optimistic that we might see a model of that one. The I-15 or the I-153 would really be the icing on the cake though. The I-153 with its retractable landing gear and gull wing design would look fantastic.

[Elmer]

Thanks for the pics, CC. I want one... or maybe two... or three... or...