Chuck's Korean War F4U-4B in 1/72 scale *finished*

[Chuck Finley]

My second build to be constructed concurrently with my FG-1D is Revell of Germany's new 1/72 scale F4U-4B. To be a little different, I will be using Wolfpak Decals to model a aircraft flown by VF-653 off the USS Valley Forge in Korean Waters around 1951-1952. Since both aircraft will be painted in Glossy sea Blue, it seemed logical to paint both at the same time.

[Chuck Finley]

The basic build has been completed. Tomorrow, the canopy gets attached and the aircraft will get it's first coat of glossy sea blue.





In addition, I was able to find some history for this particular F4U-4B in " F4U Corsair Units of the Korean War" by Warren Thompson.

F4U-4B, BuNo 97412 was built in May 1946. The aircraft initially served with VFB-75 (1946) and VF-4B (1946-47), after which, it was placed in storage until May, 1950. Issued to VMF-311, the Corsair joined VMF-312 two months later, followed by VMT-2 in August and VMF-235 the following month. Returning to VMT-2 in November, the aircraft was assigned to VF-653 in September 1951 and saw combat with the unit until sent to Japan for overhaul three months later and transferred to VMF-323 in January 1952. BuNo 97412 suffered structural failure after being hit by it's own bomb blast during a close air support mission near Sinwon on March 26, 1952. It's pilot, 2Lt Joseph H Kuney Jr, died in the subsequent crash.

[Chuck Finley]

I also noticed one problem with the Revell of Germany kit. The F4U-4 was the first Corsair with a complete cockpit floor and the Revell kit as the running board common to the earlier versions.

[Chuck Finley]

Finally finished.

Vought F4U-4B flown by VF-653 off the USS Valley Forge in September 1951.

[lancfan]

Another winner, looks great- well done Chuck.

David.

[Chuck Finley]

Another winner, looks great- well done Chuck.

David.

Thanks, my only gripe with the Revell kit is that it lacks the underwing stations for rockets and light bombs. The Korean War aircraft flew many a strike loaded up.

[iggie]

Very nice build indeed!
I shall be happy if mine turns out that well

[TobyC]

Lovely clean finish. Very crisp build

[fredk]

Very nice