Vought F4U-1 Corsair "Bird Cage"

USN VF-17 Jolly Rogers / USS Bunker Hill

Hobby Master 1/48 HA8221

Vought F4U-1 Corsair "Bird Cage"

Designed to meet a US Navy requirement for a single-seat carrier based fighter, the F4U was first flown on May 29th, 1940. This versatile aircraft saw service with both the Navy and Marine Corps in WW II and in the Korean War. During its lifetime, the Corsair underwent numerous improvements such as a lengthened fuselage, a high visibility bubble-top canopy and folding inverted gull wings that provided clearance for a large propeller. Its performance advantage, 400 mph capability, the ability to withstand punishment and six .50 Browning machine guns made the F4U a devastating weapon against aircraft, ground targets and ships.

The USN received the first F4U-1 on July 31, 1942. Immediately there were a few problems observed, the Bird Cage canopy restricted the pilot’s visibility; the aircraft would bounce when landing and could cause the arrestor hook to miss the cable. The long nose greatly reduced forward visibility for carrier deck maneuvering. The long nose earned the Corsair the nicknames “Hose Nose”, “Hog and “Bent Wing Widow Maker”. The decision was made to assign the Corsair to the land based Marines with 2 USN squadrons: VF-12 and later VF17.

The engine was so massive and produced so much energy that a Hamilton Standard 13 feet 4 inch propeller, the largest of WWII, was required. The F4U was the first American fighter aircraft to exceed 400 MPH. The Corsair was referred to by the Japanese as “Whispering Death” and became a legend in its own time. This aircraft was one of the most distinctive designs with it bent wings making it an icon of military aviation.

The Hobby Master "1:48 Air Power Series" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft and features:

• Molded metal construction with plastic components.
• Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
• Inscriptions and posters printed with a stamp that do not fade or fall off like decals.
• opening of awnings, revealing detailed within the cockpit.
• Extended / retracted interchangeable landing gear.
• Display stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
• Authentic detachable artillery cargoes complete with placards.