2009 Die Cast Buys of the Week [Archive]

KG_Jag

01-05-2009, 01:33 AM

We may as well start January with two winter camo tanks from World War II, one from each side.

We'll begin with a 1:50 Corgi Skirmish offering from Diecast Direct for just $17.98. It's a Churchill Mk.VII Tank & 3 British Paratrooper Figures - British Army, Holland .

http://www.diecastdirect.com/images/C60109.jpg

Drop in on it here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=C60109

Our second AFV pick of 2009 is getting harder to find. From Hobbylinc for $32.59, it is a 1/32 scale German Panzer IV Ausf F Eastern Front. The Panzer IV Ausf. F was actually the third production variant to the Panzer IV. The initial versions A, B, and C were used for development and training only. The first production unit was an Ausf. D. The Ausf. F featured a new turret design, a new drive sprocket and was the last variant armed with short barrel 75mm gun.

http://dev.forcesofvalor.com/images/product/primary_image/80317.jpg

This way to Stalingrad:

http://www.hobbylinc.com/htm/unx/unx80317.htm

We ended 2008 with a good buy on one Corgi 1:72 scale B-24 Liberator and we'll start 2009 with another. This one is all dressed up to party with the rest of the 459th Bomb Group, Italy, 1944. From Historic Aviation for $59.95, this bird is wearing the late-war markings of the 459th Bomb Group, which flew with the 15th Air Force out of Italy in 1944, this 1/72 scale, limited edition die cast model of a radar-equipped B-24 features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with crew figures, manned machine guns, rotating propellers, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, the original's flamboyant paint scheme, a display stand, and more. 18" wingspan.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091889&size=large

Bring a bottle of Chianti and meet here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12303&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF%20Bombers

Our final pick is from the Witty clearance at DiecastAirplane. In the 1:72 scale, they offer the SU-27 Uzbek Air force Chirchik AB 2001 for just $24.95.

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/Shared/images/Witty_Wings/wty-72014-08b.jpg&lr=t&bw=225&w=225

The Su-27SK is a highly integrated twin-finned aircraft. The airframe is constructed of titanium and high strength aluminum alloys equipped with a 30mm GSh-301 gun with 150 rounds of ammunition and a range of missiles, rockets and bombs mounted externally on ten hardpoints.

I hear you can get good rates this time of year there and here:

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/p/6184-SU-27-Uzbek-Airforce-Chirchik-AB-2001-1-72-.html

KG_Jag

01-12-2009, 04:15 AM

We'll start this week with an outstanding value for the Oryon 1:35 scale (about 2 inches tall) hand painted metal soldiers. Military Issue claims to have at least 20 different World War II sets from which to select for just $14.95 each. By way of example, we will feature the German Sturmpionier set.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500620&size=large

Amazingly detailed and painted by hand, this set of four 1/35 scale metal figures depicts Sturmpioniers of the 1st SS Panzer Division Leibstandarte Adolf Hitler in their winter camouflage uniforms.

Grab em while they got 'em here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10439&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Units

We also have two AFV selections this week. The first is a Corgi 1:50 scale CHURCHILL MKIII TANK from Aiken's for $29.95.

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/images/C60105.jpg

BRITISH ARMY, 145 (DUKE OF WELLINGTON'S) REGIMENT RAC, TUNISIA 1943

Taking a magnifying glass to the incredible variety of armored vehicles, tanks and transporters which were used during the Second World War, Corgi are bringing to the collector a new level of detail and accuracy unseen before on diecast scale models of this era. The first range will concentrate on the World War in Europe and in order to bring this epic arena to life we have chosen to model some of the groundbreaking and iconic vehicles which were to bring such devastating effect to the six years of war that raged across all parts of the continent.

The World War II Collection will become a mark of the highest caliber and this first 2003 range sets an exciting level of excellence. The meticulous attention to detail features working aspects to the models where appropriate, highly specific livery details, realistic look weathering and battle scarring, and in some instances unique and innovative features of the vehicles are also included. Each Limited Edition model has a numbered certificate and all models are presented in superb display packaging.

Get one before it leaves to invade Sicily:

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/corgi/c60105.htm

Our second AFV is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor winter camo T-34/85 E Prussia 1:32 Forces of Valor 80318 from Bad Cat's INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE. The price is $37.99 with coupon code on the page listing this (and other) product.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/badcattoys_2037_28988948

In the early battles along the Russian Front, the T-34 proved very formidable against the German medium tanks. However, by 1943, the newer German heavy tanks necessitated greater firepower from the Russian arsenal. The T-34 was modified with a heavier armor hull and a more powerful 85mm gun.

Product Features:

Diecast Metal Construction
Rotating Turret
Elevating Main Cannon
Opening Engine Compartment
Opening Front and Turret Hatches
Two 1:32 Scale Fixed Action Figures
Diorama Accessories Included
History Card
Rotating Tracks
Highly Detailed
Complete and Ready for Your Diorama or Display Case
For Ages 8 and Up
10" Long
3½" Wide
3½" Tall
About This Tank:Produced between 1941 and 1958, the T-34 is a Soviet Medium Tank used during World War II. At its introduction, the T-34 was considered to be the worlds best and most effective tank. As the war raged on, the T-34 was continuously refined to improve its effectiveness and decrease cost. The T-34-85 was introduced in early 1944 with its more powerful 85mm main cannon, and the three man turret design. Its effective and cost cutting design would lead directly to the development of the T-54/55 series of tanks which are still operated today. Make a snowball and throw it here:

http://www.badcataviation.com/tm85eapr1foo.html

We feature one of our favorite large sized birds. These Corgi 1:32 scale babies are steadily becoming harder and harder to find and this is the best of their 1:32 Hurricanes in my view. At $59.95, it is also offered at a very good price by 3000Toys.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/AA35504.jpg
http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/v1_AA35504.jpg

Hawker Sea Hurricane 1B - No. 880 SQ. Fleet Air Arm, HMS Indomitable, Indian Ocean. Restoration started in earnest in February 1986, and led to the first flight of the world's only Sea Hurricane 1B in the hands of pilot Andy Sephton on September 16, 1995.

Get it here:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGIAA35504

Our final selection this week is an On Mark red tag special for just $12.50. For that you can get a Dragon 1:72 scale P-47D Thunderbolt "Saucy Susie", 513th Fighter Squadron (known as the Rocket Squadron), 406th Fighter Group (the Raider Group) 9th A.F.

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50088/50088c.jpg

Go to almost exactly the middle of this page and look to the middle:

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/red_tag_page.php

KG_Jag

01-17-2009, 03:49 PM

We'll start this week with a great buy on a Corgi 1:50 scale M16 Quad .50 Half-Track 1/50 Die Cast Model, France, 1944 that includes three GI's. It's just $19.95 at Military Issue.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0091675&size=large

When mounted like this in a group of four, machine guns were highly effective in both the anti-aircraft and anti-personnel roles. This limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast model of a Quad-50 Half-Track that served in Operation Dragoon - the Allied invasion of southern France in August, 1944 - features textured surfaces; factory-applied plastic detail parts such as supplies, tools and weapons; rolling wheels and tracks; a weathered U.S. Army camouflage scheme; three hand-painted pewter infantry figures; and more. 5" long.

Quad .50's on the move are here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=5856&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Non-Aviation

We're living large with the next selection. From Squadron for $93.99, it's a 1:24 scale M1 NATO Abrams.

http://www.squadron.com/images/large/FM11E207.jpg

Description: M1 Abrams Tank NATO Desert Camo
The definitive die-cast model of the backbone of the U.S. military's armored forces. Authorized and authenticated by General Dynamics, makers of the real Abrams Tank. Hand-assembled from more than 240 parts in 1:24 scale. Precision-engineered with such working features as pivoting guns, a turret that turns, opening hatches, and moving wheels and treads. Take charge, and enter your order for this powerful tribute to the awesome M1A1 Abrams Tank, and the soldiers who man it.

Approximately 16" in length with cannon.

Here's Lucy:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=FM11E207

The Drop Zone brings us our next selection. For $25.95 they offer a Witty Sky Guardians 1/72 Scale F/A-18F US Navy VFA-154 "Black Knights".

http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72008-003-2S.jpg (http://javascript:change_product_photo(2);) http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72008-003-3S.jpg (http://javascript:change_product_photo(3);) http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72008-003-4S.jpg (http://javascript:change_product_photo(4);) http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72008-003-5S.jpg (http://javascript:change_product_photo(5);) http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WTW72008-003-6S.jpg (http://javascript:change_product_photo(6);)

The Round Table is here:

http://www.thedzd.com/product-p/wtw72008-003.htm

Our final selection this week is from Monkey Depot. It is a Witty Wings Hawker Sea Fury FB11 860 Sqn Dutch Navy 1:72 scale for $18.74.

Materials: Die Cast Metal w/Plastic Details

Description: Gear fixed in the down position

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WY0064-2.jpg

Catch this very late piston driven bird at the air races or here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/product_p/wy0064.htm

As I will be on the high seas for a couple of weeks, the next installment may not appear until early February.

KG_Jag

02-05-2009, 04:08 PM

There was no edition last week for want of an internet connection. This week we're late, as it started with yours truly catching the last 8 minutes of the Super Bowl in the Sydney airport.

Both of our armor selections this week are 21st Century items from the sale at the Monkey Depot. The first is for those of you who like big models. Offered for just $19.95, it's a 1/18 scale US M48A3 Patton Main Battle Tank (Vietnam Era).

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/USX0088-2.jpg

Light the lava lamp, crank up the Doors and click here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/21st_Century_Toys_US_M48A3_Patton_p/usx0088.htm

Selection #2 is an early World War II tank that is rarely done. This is a 1/32 scale German Panzer 38(t) Light Tank - "Red 525", offered for just $7.99.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/US0113-2.jpg

Get it here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/product_p/us0113.htm

Both of our aircraft selections are from World War II and in the 1:72 scale. The first is a sale item from the Flying Mule for just $9.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/DM-50192_01_lrg.gif

Dragon 1:72 Warbirds 50192
F4F Wildcat Diecast Model
USN VC-93, "White 29", Hatherly Foster III, USS Petrof Bay, April 1945, (FM-2)

1:72 Scale
Length 4.75"
Width 6.25"

This fully finished and pre-painted model represents "White 29" from VC-93. It was flown by Lt. Hatherly Foster III, while based aboard the USS Petrof Bay (CVE-80) in April 1945.

The Grumman F4F Wildcat was the standard carrier-based fighter of the United States Navy for the first year and a half of World War II. An improved version built by General Motors (the General Motors FM Wildcat) remained in service throughout the war, on escort carriers where newer, larger and heavier fighters could not be used.

The Wildcat was outperformed by the Mitsubishi Zero, its major opponent in the Pacific war, but held its own by absorbing far more damage and wielding more firepower. With heavy armor and self-sealing fuel tanks, the Grumman airframe could survive far more than its lightweight, unarmored Japanese rival.

The original Grumman F4F-1 design was a biplane, which when proving inferior to rival designs was recast as the monoplane F4F-2. This was still not competitive with the Brewster F2A Buffalo which won initial US Navy orders, but when the F4F was fitted with a more powerful engine, the Pratt & Whitney Twin Wasp, it showed its true merits and became the F4F-3. US Navy orders followed as did some (with Wright Cyclone engines) from France; these ended up with the Royal Navy's Fleet Air Arm after the fall of France. In British service initially these were known as the Martlet I, but not all Marlets would be to the exact same specifications as US Navy aircraft. The F4F-3A would enter service as the Marlet III(B), the FM-1 as the Marlet V, and the FM-2 as the Martlet VI. The name Wildcat was still commonly used for these aircraft in spite of the official name change.
A new version, the F4F-4, entered service in 1942 with six guns and folding wings, allowing more to be crammed on a carrier; this was the definitive version and the one that saw the most combat service in the early war years including the Battle of Midway.

Grumman production ceased in early 1943 to make way for the newer F6F Hellcat, but General Motors continued producing them for both US Navy and Fleet Air Arm use, as larger fighters such as the Hellcat and the Vought F4U Corsair were too large for use on escort carriers. At first they produced the identical FM-1 model but then switched to the improved FM-2 (based on Grumman's F4F-8 prototype) with a more powerful engine and a taller tail to cope with the torque. In all, 7,251 Wildcats were built. All versions of the Wildcat used hand-cranked landing gear with a relatively narrow track, making landing accidents where the landing gear were not fully locked into place distressingly common.

Dragon 1:72 Warbirds (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/dragon-wings-warbirds-series/72)

The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircaft.

Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
Selected movable control surfaces.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.Grumman F4F Wildcat-Designed (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_FTR_F4F) to meet a 1936 US Navy requirement for a new carrier-based fighter, the F-4F was first flown on September 2nd, 1937.

Point your nose into the wind and click here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-50192

Our final selection is the Corgi 1:72 scale FW190A Adolf Dickfield- Black Double Chevron from Corgi by way of the Toy Headquarters for $19.99.

The FW 190 was a late arrival in North Africa, making its combat debut on November 16, 1942.

Over the next six months, III./ZG 2, III./SKG 10, II./JG 2, the Stab and II./SchG 2, all successfully flew the FW 190 in North Africa, with many victories. This particular FW 190 was written off when its pilot, Adolph Dickfield, hit an obstacle and somersaulted during takeoff from Kairouan on January 8, 1943. The bulk of Dickfield`s 136 victories were scored on the Eastern Front, but 11 of his 21 Western and Tunisian kills were four-engined bombers.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG34304.jpg

- 1/72 Scale
- Diecast Metal
- Aviation Archives
- Wingspan 6 inches

Click here before the Allies take Tunisia:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_59_76&products_id=1126&osCsid=c93640b7c0a401f0670fc121b7d55a7b

KG_Jag

02-10-2009, 03:14 AM

Getting almost back on our weekly schedule, we'll begin this week with the 1:72 scale Hobby Master Russian KV-2 Heavy Artillery Tank Kalinin Front from Trinkets to Treasures for $17.95.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/images_extra/hg3004b.jpg

From Hobby Master Diecast this is a 1:72 scale model of the Russian KV-2 Heavy Artillery Tank, Kalinin Front, Russia 1942. Measures approx. 3.75 inches in length. Hobby Master model number HG3004. Limited Edition 1,200 pieces worldwide.

The Russian KV-2 heavy tank was known for its size and 152mm gun. It was named after the Soviet defense commissar and politician Kliment Voroshilov. The KV-2, designed as a slow-moving bunker-buster. It was reported that the KV-2 could withstand over forty enemy hits and none penetrated its armor before the use of the German Flak guns. One challenge of the tank's design is its large turret which stood out as an east target for the enemy. It was also heavy and had a high rate of mechanical failure. A total of 334 KV-2s were produced during the period from 1940 to October 1941. The Russian words 'For Stalin' was inscribed on the profile of the turret.

Hobby Master replicates some of the greatest military tanks in history in 1/48 and 1/72 scale die cast models. Hobby Master tank models have movable gun barrels, turrets and tracks. Best of all, Hobby Master models arrive fully assembled and ready to display right out of the box!

Get this early war monster here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/hobby-master-russian-kv-2-heavy-artillery-tank.html

Our second selection is for both the collectors or rarely done armor and those on a tight budget (which is a great many of us these days). Picked from the sale at the Monkey Depot, we feature the 21st Century Toys 1/32 scale German Sd.Kfz. 139 Marder III M "102" 3 Color Camo for only $4.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/US0114-2.jpg

Description: The Sd.Kfz. 138 Ausf. M - Marder IIIM Self-Propelled Gun was a highly effective ”Tank Destroyer” for Germany through the early and middle stages of WWII. Based on the chassis of the 38(t), the Marder featured an open crew compartment equipped with a PaK-40 75mm Anti-Tank Gun. This 1:32 Scale Model features all the incredible detail you have come to expect to be found on 21st Century Toys products including working tracks and opening/closing driver's¢€™s hatch. Plus, the crew compartment takes the phrase “Attention to Detail” to a new level altogether, featuring highly-detailed shells, ammunitions rack and radio console as well as a superbly finished PaK-40/3 that accurately traverses and elevates.
-Tracks + wheels roll
-Hatches open

Check it out here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/21st_Century_Toys_German_SdKfz_139_Marder_III_p/us0114.htm

Our first air selection is the Carousel One 1/48 scale P-36A Hawk USAAC 15th PG, 27th PS, Willis Taylor, Cleveland Airport, Cleveland, OH, Cleveland Air Races September 1939. Racers Den has it for $59.95.

http://www.racersdeninc.com/v/vspfiles/photos/6122-2.jpg

Catch this early war flyer and pre-war racer here:

http://www.racersdeninc.com/Carousel_One_P_36A_Hawk_USAAC_15th_PG_27th_PS_Wi_p/6122.htm

Our final selection this week is the current Top Gun, replacing the Tomcat. This one is in the 1:72 scale from Dragon and is on sale at the Flying Mule for just $19.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/DM-50030_01_lrg.gif

Dragon 1:72 Warbirds 50030
F/A-18B Hornet Diecast Model
USN NFWS Top Gun

1:72 Scale Length 9.25" Width 6.25"

McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet
Dragon Models produce some of the most detailed diecast metal F-18 models available. Each model is assembled from sturdy metal components featuring detailed panel lines, antennas, access panels and other surface details. All feature accurately researched exterior markings and placards which are applied using a state-of-the-art pad printing process so they will not fade or peel like decals. The canopy can optionally be displayed in an opened position, revealing a detailed cockpit interior. The authentic ordnance loads can be attached at different wing stations and the speedbrake can be shown opened or closed. The all-moving horizontal stabilizer surfaces can also be positioned according to the phase of flight operation. Finally, the model may be shown "in flight" on its display stand, or firmly on the ground when the metal landing gear is attached. Die-hard F-18 fans will be impressed with the attention to detail shown in the construction of this model.

The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.

Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
Selected movable control surfaces.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.McDonnell Douglas F/A-18B Hornet (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_JET_FTR_F018)

Designed by Northrop as a smaller, naval derivative of the YF-17 Air Combat Fighter prototype, the F18 was first flown on November 18th, 1978.

Your trip to Fallon, NV begins here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-50030

KG_Jag

02-17-2009, 03:12 AM

As a representation of the direction of the economy, we begin this week with a wood submarine model of the famous U.S. Gato class from World War II. This is a 1:150 scale boat that Airplane Modelworks is offering for $249.98.

http://www.airplanemodelworks.com/images/large/gato-class-model-submarine_l.jpg (http://javascript:window.close())

Gato Class Model Submarine

Take home a piece of history with our Gato Submarine display model.

Each Navy Gato Class model display reflects the true image, colors and markings of the actual Navy Gato Submarine. Each Navy Gato Submarine model is made of admirable quality. The Gato Submarine display military mahogany is meticulously hand carved and hand painted to reflect the true detail of the original Navy Gato Submarine. This Navy Gato Class display military has a dimension of 1/150 scale; 19.5" length; perfect for your collection. The Gato Submarine model military mahogany authentic replica is perfect as an exquisite gift to your maritime enthusiast friend, or a proud display on your office desk - a symbol of your patriotism and bravery during those precious years.

Ship Model: Gato Class Submarine
Finish: Painted Mahogany
Company: US Navy
Ship Type: Submarine

Features:Hand crafted and hand painted Collector Scale model No Assembly Required Display Stand included Dive your mouse here:

http://www.airplanemodelworks.com/gato-class-model-submarine-p-810.html

Last month we featured some of the Oryon 1:35 scale World War II metal soldiers that Military Issue had on sale for just $14.95. They still have some left and this week we feature the U.S. 1st Infantry Division.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500605&size=large

U.S. Army 1st Infantry Division 1/35 Figures

Beautifully sculpted and painted by hand, this set of four 1/35 scale metal figures recreates every detail of the 1st Infantry Division soldiers - the "Big Red One" is the oldest division in the U.S. Army - who participated in Operation Torch, Operation Husky, the Normandy invasion and the Battle of the Bulge. Measuring approximately 2" tall, these historically accurate figures are perfect as standalone display pieces or for adding to a World War II diorama.

The Big Red One is camped here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=713&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Units

Our first AFV is from the U.S. modern arsenal. In 1:32 scale from Forces of Valor by way of the Toy Federation for $29.95, we feature the U.S. M2A2 Bradley Kuwait, 1991.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/xcart/images/t_16563.jpg

Please note that all forces of valor which we sell are the “Enthusiast” grade, not the basic “action” grade available at mass market stores.

This powerhouse, also known as the Bradley Fighting Vehicle, was developed to be a highly mobile armed personal carrier that could keep pace with the awesome General Dynamics Land Systems M1A1 Abrams battle tank. During Operation Desert Storm, the M2 demonstrated the high power of mobility, intense firepower, and crew protection capabilities.

External reactive armor plates were added to the front and sides to increase crew survivability during heavy combat conditions. The awesome 600HP turbo charged diesel deftly maintained superior mobility even with the increased weight in all the battlefield scenarios of the Gulf War.

Look for sand clouds here:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/xcart/product.php?productid=16563&cat=317&page=1

Our second armor selection is an old friend that is getting difficult to find. It is a Dragon 1:35 scale initial production Tiger in winter camo and ready for the Eastern Front. Pete's will still get you one for $49.95.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/DRR61003.JPG

Its tracks in the snow start here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=DRR61003#item

Century Wings is known for their outstanding planes and our pick is their 1:72 scale Vought F-8E Crusader, US Navy VF-211 Fighting Checkmates, NP101, USS Bon Homme Richard, CDR Paul Speer--Vietnam, 1967. Fantastic Flyers has them at the fantastic price of just $39.95.

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/images/601628.jpg (http://javascript:;)

Wingspan: 5.75"
Length: 9.25"
Limited Edition 3000 pieces
This beautiful rendition of the F-8E Crusader can be configured for ground or "in-flight" display, however, the wings feature permanently deployed flaps and slats. Additionally, the entire wing is articulated and can be raised and lowered, adjusting the incidence angle for take-off and landing, just like the real aircraft. Finally, the nosewheel is in the compressed position, making this model ideally suited to being displayed "ready for launch" from the catapult!

All ready to display Century Wings diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
Selected movable control surfaces.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Detailed removable pilot and crew figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.About this Model:

The F-8 Crusader (originally F8U) was a single-engine aircraft carrier-based fighter aircraft built by Chance-Vought of Dallas, Texas, USA. It replaced the Vought F-7 Cutlass. The first F-8 prototype was ready for flight in February 1955, and was the last American fighter with guns as the primary weapon. The RF-8 Crusader was a photo-reconnaissance development and operated longer in U.S. service than any of the fighter versions. RF-8s played a crucial role in the Cuban Missile Crisis, providing essential low-level photographs impossible to acquire by other means. Naval Reserve units continued to operate the RF-8 until 1987.

CDR Paul Speer downed a MIG-17 on May 19, 1967

Prepare to launch here:

http://www.fantasticflyers.com/crusader-fighting-checkmates-speer-601628-p-1946.html

Our final selection is from Bad Cat's Presidents Day sale. It's Pappy Boyington's P-40B from his days in the Flying Tigers, before the Black Sheep (Boyington's Bastards) were in the South Pacific. This one is by Carousel 1 in 1:48 scale, which the Cat will sell you for $58.50.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/badcattoys_2037_17292296

Hump it here:

http://www.badcataviation.com/pbo1ca61.html

KG_Jag

02-23-2009, 03:03 AM

We start this week with a Forces of Valor 1:32 scale German Flakpanzer IV Wirbelwind-1944 for $32.00 from Pam's Dream.

http://www.pamsdream.com/catalog/80227.jpg

Eyes to the sky here:

http://www.pamsdream.com/servlet/Detail?no=844

The Monkey Depot continues to run its sale and our second selection is a Dragon Armor 1:72 scale T-34/76 Mod. 1942 Moscow Collective Farm (60165) from that sale for just $7.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0154-2.jpg

Here comes Uncle Joe:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/product_p/da0154.htm

Our aviation picks begin this week with a Corgi 1:72 bird from the sale at the Motormint. This one is the Messerschmitt ME262A-1A, Red 13 for just $19.98.

http://www.motormint.com/ProductImages/fullsize/AA35703.jpg

Potentially, the War Winning Aircraft

One tide-turning decision that affected the outcome of WWII was Hitlers insistence that Messerschmitts ME262 jet be developed as a bomber not a fighter. By the time the Axis High Command convinced him otherwise, it was too late. Rushed to delivery in May 1944, the ME262 had superior speed (540 mph) and weaponry (4 30mm MK108 cannons and 24 55mm R4M rockets), but lacked the quality control needed. The dual Jumo turbojets were unreliable causing engine failure and fires, the MK108s constantly jammed and the landing gear often collapsed.

http://www.motormint.com/images/products/support/corgi_logo.jpg

Model Features
• Comes with Own Display Stand
• Precision DieCast Replica
• 1:72 Scale Model

Jet over here to get one:

http://www.motormint.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1286

Our final selection is a Dragon 1:72 scale Spit V on sale at the Flying Mule for just $14.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/DM-50167_01_lrg.gif

Dragon 1:72 Warbirds 50167
Spitfire MkV Diecast Model
RAAF No 79th Sqn, "Jen III", Stan Galton, 1944

1:72 Scale; Length 5"; Width 6.25"

Supermarine Spitfire MkV--Dragon Warbirds newest release is a Spitfire Mk Vc with the code “UP-A”, with “UP” being the designation for 79 Squadron and “A” being the flight. About 250 of these variants were shipped to Australia from 1943 onwards for use by No. 1 Wing of the RAAF. The “C” in the name referred to the new four 20mm cannons that were carried on the wings. The Spitfire Mk Vc was intended for use as an interceptor against Japanese raids. “Jen III” was flown by Squadron Leader Stan Galton between August and October 1944.

The Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.

Dragon Models "Dragon Wings 1:72 Warbirds Series" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Opening canopies, revealing detailed cockpit interiors.
Selected movable control surfaces.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.Designed by R.J.Michell to meet a British Air Ministry specification, the Spitfire first was flown for the first time on March 5th, 1936.

Grab one here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/DM-50167

KG_Jag

03-02-2009, 01:38 AM

Welcome to March! You won't have to do that with any of our picks for this week. Our first is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor U.S. M60A1 PATTON (KUWAIT 1991) from JP Hobbies for $29.95.

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/prodimages/fov80209.jpg

MODEL FEATURES : Diecast Tank & Figure. Tank Tracks roll along the working suspension. Turret turns and the main gun elevates to engage! Real World Accessories in realistic detail! Includes Commander to direct the Battle!

Gulf War I is here--at the bottom left of the page:

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/products.asp?cat=126

AFV selection number two takes us back to World War II on the Eastern Front. From Internet Hobbies for just $31.17, it's a Dragon 1/35 scale SdKfz 184 Elefant Tank 2./sPzJg Abt 653 Poland 1944.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/internethobbies_2043_5076537

When first introduced onto the Eastern Front at the Battle of Kursk in 1943, the Elefant, like the animal it was named after, became bit of an endangered species! It was powerful but ponderous, able to kill tanks from long ranges, but unable to defend against infantry at close ranges. Some of its defensive shortcomings were later rectified by the addition of a bow machine gun, while its 8.8cm PaK43/2 L/71 gun remained as lethal as ever. Dragon Armor has released a new 1/35 scale Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant, which is finished in the colors and markings of a vehicle serving with PzJgAbt 653, one of the original units that fielded this new type of tank destroyer at Kursk. The three-color camouflage scheme is highly attractive, with mottled green and brown patches over a yellow base.

As with the previous limited edition Elefant, this is a superb collectors’ piece. The unblemished paint scheme is realistically weathered to represent an Elefant fighting on the Eastern Front in 1944. The lifelike tracks have just the right degree of sag, while the hull machine gun is movable. The long barrel (or should we say trunk?) of the Elefant also elevates and depresses. This fully assembled model bears a host of remarkable features, and with such a fine specimen as this, the survival of the Elefant species is assured!

See if it can slow down the Soviet's drive to west here:

http://www.internethobbies.com/dmd-61005-hbt.html

Our first aircraft selection is a newer--and very bright--livery of one of Corgi's best new molds. Brought to you by Historic Aviation for $59.95, it's a 1/72 scale A-10A Catalina 4th Air Rescue Squadron--1949.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091933&size=large

Replicating a U.S. Air Force SA-10A ("Search Amphibian") Catalina that served with the 4th Air Rescue Squadron at Hamilton Air Force Base in 1949, this limited edition, 1/72 scale die cast model is a sight to behold. You get textured surfaces; crew figures manning the realistic cockpit, turret and waist blisters; precision details such as a radar array, an antenna and simulated landing lights; rotating propellers; optional position landing gear; authentic markings; a display stand; and more. 17¼" wingspan.

If it does not find you, you can find it here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12342&product=Models+and+Kits&category=military&subcategory=U.S.%20Naval%20Patrol%20Aircraft

Down to our final selection this week, we'll go with another great and late Corgi 1:72 scale mold. This one is offered by The Drop Zone for just $29.95. Yes it's a Stringbag, the FAIREY SWORDFISH (AA36306).

http://www.thedzd.com/v/vspfiles/photos/CG-AA36306-2.jpg

It's a Night Missions Fleet Air Arm, 815 Naval Air Squadron, HMS Illustrious, November 1940.

Slowly but surely glide your mouse here:

http://www.thedzd.com/product-p/cg-aa36306.htm

KG_Jag

03-08-2009, 10:32 PM

Our first armor pick is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor tank, offered by Pam's Dream for $32.00. It is a German Panzer IV Ausf. G- 1943.

http://www.pamsdream.com/catalog/80314.jpg

She's waiting in ambush for you here:

http://www.pamsdream.com/servlet/Detail?no=842

Our second pick for our ground pounders is a 1:72 scale Dragon German assault gun from the sale at the Monkey Depot. Presented for your approval, after you present the requisite $9.95, is the Dragon Armor StuG IV (Early Production), Courland 1944 (60069).

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0152-2T.jpg (http://javascript:OpenNewWindow('/PhotoDetails.asp?ShowDESC=N&ProductCode=' + escape('DA0152'), 640, 600))

Description http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/clear1x1.gifhttp://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/clear1x1.gifhttp://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/DBox_Border_Left_Top.gifhttp://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/clear1x1.gifhttp://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/DBox_Border_Right_Top.gifhttp://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/templates/monkey2/images/clear1x1.gifScale: 1/72
Size (Approx): 3.5 in long from tip of barrel
Materials: Die cast metal with plastic parts
Description:
- Accurate StuG IV mold with full details
- True-scale model
- Historically accurate 3-tone camouflage pattern typical of the late war
- Full detail on the machine gun, on-vehicle tools and side skirt brackets
- Detailed and weathered track links
- Includes display case

Here's where you can get one:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/product_p/da0152.htm (http://www.monkeydepot.com/product_p/da0152.htm)

We'll hit the afterburners and head to the sky. Our first selection this week is from Crossroads and is a 1:48 version of on of Germany's best World War II fighters. Offered at $59.99, we feature the Carousel 1 Fw190D-9 Gerhard Barkhorn, JG 6 1945.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-94511236631939_2044_142734507

Beware the long nose here:

http://www.crossroadsdiecast.com/ca17.html

Our final selection of the week is the pontoon version of the famous Ju-52. It is a Corgi 1:72 scale that can be had at the Flying Mule for just $74.69 shipped, with their 10% off coupon.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA36901_04_lrg.gif

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA36901
Ju 52 Diecast Model
Luftwaffe III./Transportfliegerchef, Norway, Operation Weserubung, 1940

1:72 Scale Length Width

Junkers Ju 52 10.25" 16"

An hour before midnight on April 8, 1940, the Norwegian security vessel "Pol III” was on a patrol in the Oslo Fjord, when it discovered unidentified ships in the horizon. A few minutes later it was rammed and shot at by a German torpedo boat. The invasion of Norway had started. The Luftwaffe would have participated with 1,082 aircrafts by the end of the invasion. By the end of April 9, there would be about 16,000 German soldiers on Norwegian soil. Operation Weserubung was to be the first major combined operation here the army, navy and air force were joined together. At the beginning of the Norwegian operation, 571 Ju 52/3m transports were available, in addition to other types such as this floatplane, which as used in the Luftwaffe’s first major airborne operation.

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/corgi-aviation-archive/collector-series)
The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as air-brakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.Junkers Ju 52 (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_TRN_JU52) Designed as three engined commercial and military transport, the Ju 52 was first flown in April, 1931.

Find her hiding in this Fjord:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CG-AA36901

KG_Jag

03-16-2009, 03:34 AM

This week we have a range of offerings from $10 to $100.

Let's start with one for the budget minded. From the sale at the Monkey Depot, it's 1:32 scale 21st Century German Sd.Kfz. 139 Marder III "Heidei". You can pick one up for just $9.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/US0142-5T.jpg (http://javascript:OpenNewWindow(global_SEOImage + '?ShowDesc=N&PhotoNumber=5&ProductCode=' + escape(global_Current_ProductCode), 640, 480))

Description: The German Marders were a series of self-propelled tank destroyers mostly built as stop gap solutions until purpose designed and built equipment could reach the field. The Marder III was the first production version in the Marder III series. The gun was centrally located, due to weight issues. With the engine mounted at the rear of its chassis, the gun had to be mounted elsewhere in order to keep the tank from being unbalanced. The later Marder IIIM version had the engine relocated to the center of the chassis, hence the designation "M" (middle), and the gun compartment was located on the back of the hull. Both versions had lightly armored crew compartments and were open in the top and rear. The Soviet 76.2 mm field gun was captured in large quantities and it was decided to use these by mating them to the Panzer 38(t) chassis. The resulting Marder III was an effective anti-tank weapon and was used widely by the Germans in WWII.

-Tracks + wheels roll
-Gun has limited movement

Check out your own convertible AFV here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/21st_Century_Toys_German_Sd_Kfz_139_Marder_III_He_ p/us0142.htm

If you invested with Bernie Madoff, this next pick may not be for you. From the Franklin Mint by way of the Flying Mule and your $99.99, it's a 1:24 scale Sherman M4-A3.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/FM-B11B649_03_lrg.gif Franklin Mint Armour Collection B11B649; M4 Sherman Tank Diecast Model US Army: 9.5" x 4.5"

This is a precision-engineered scale model from The Franklin Mint, carefully crafted, hand-painted and hand-finished, featuring a level of detail far and above that of the Franklin Mint's regular Armour Collection series.

What the ship is to the Navy and what the airplane is to the Air Force-that's what the tank is to the Army. And the U.S. Army's greatest tank commander was George S. Patton Jr. Born in California on November 11, 1885, Patton attended Virginia Military Academy, graduated from West Point, and participated in the 1912 Olympic Games as a pentathlete. During World War I, Patton served as aide to Gen. John J. Pershing and organized and trained the first tank brigade. With the outbreak of WWII, Patton returned to the battlefield and distinguished himself in a variety of campaigns-the invasion of North Africa where he faced Gen. Rommel's tank forces, and the invasion of Sicily, where he led the Seventh Army. Later, under his spirited command, the Third Army pushed through France and Germany, and into Czechoslovakia. Patton's flamboyant style and impetuous manner made him a hero to his troops, but led to a series of official reprimands and reassignments. In December of 1945, less than a year after defeating the Nazis, Patton was injured in a car accident and died in a Heidelberg hospital.

A genius in tank warfare, Patton thwarted the German counter offensive at the Battle of the Bulge, leading the way in his M4-A3 Sherman tank. The Sherman tank was the standard tank produced in the U.S. from 1942 through 1944. More than 50,000 were delivered during the height of production, and the M4-A3 was the the most important of all WW II combat tanks. This formidable vehicle was armed with a 76mm gun which had superior penetrating power and could pierce 4 inches of armor at 1,000 yards. General Patton and the redoubtable Sherman tank share a moment in military history that will not be forgotten.The hull and rotating turret are both made from heavy diecast metal, which showcases fantastic scale details such as the authentic look and feel of true casting effects on the turret surface. The smooth-rolling, individually-linked tracks, and spring-loaded active suspension are masterfully replicated. Remove the turret to reveal a detailed cannon breach system and crew positions, driver controls, forward machine gunner’s position and a turret control panel with textured dials and levers. The turret also features an opening commander’s hatch, a movable 50-caliber machine gun with a well-detailed ammo box that includes shells and a pivoting cannon. Opening engine hatches reveal an extensively detailed Ford GAA engine.

The Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" range presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles. Armour Collection diecast vehicles from The Franklin Mint require no gluing or painting. Each model is an instant display piece or diorama centerpiece straight from the box.

Franklin Mint "Armour Collection" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Accurately detailed underside.Be sure to check with your non-Madoff financial adviser before clicking here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/FM-B11B649

OK--now equal time for our air jocks. The first is a Franklin Mint/Armour 1:48 scale German warbird from the Second World War and Classic Closeouts. If you've got the $31.99, they have the FW 190 Hondt, also referred to as "Red 13".

Wingspan 8 inches

http://img.classiccloseouts.com/images_104/attributes_m/5C007085.jpgGet this cannon toting Kraut momma here:

http://www.classiccloseouts.com/items.asp?iid=73920&att_id=85

Our final selection this SxSW week is a Hobby Master plane and a patch--both from Pete for $19.95. It's the 1:72 scale Korean War fighting version of the the Texan trainer.

HA1506 Hobby Master $28.45 $19.95 http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/HA1506.JPG LT-6G Mosquito 1/72 Die Cast Model, 6148 Tactical Control Squadron, Korea, 1953. ( Receive 1 Free 5 Inch Mosquito Squadron Replica Patch With Each Purchase of HA1506, Exclusively From Pete's Collectibles.) Free Patch May Vary Slightly In Color And Design Than Sample Patch Shown. Special Price: $19.95

Scale: 1:72 LIMITED STOCK Shipping 1st: $5.99Additional Items: $0.00

Swat this little pest here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=HA1506#item

KG_Jag

03-22-2009, 10:16 PM

I've survived another year as a volunteer at SxSW. Another full night's sleep will be required but the amount of great music I heard at my venue (and elsewhere) more than makes up for it. However before I get some more rack time, I'll post the picks for this week.

First is a rarely done vehicle in a bit of an usual scale. From Schuco by way of German Aircooled, our first selection is a 1:43 scale GAZ 67B, USSR 1945, offered for $14.95.

https://www.germanaircooled.com/cart/shop_image/product/3246372.jpg

This is the link:

http://www.germanaircooled.com/cart/index.php?page=shop/flypage&product_id=1065&category_id=bac918dc2066521447e1d1df65d4a04f

Our second pick comes from 21st Century by way of the Monkey Depot. It is a 1/32 scale German Panzer 38(t) Light Tank Camo, for just $7.99.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/US0143-2.jpg

Early war German armor link is:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/21st_Century_Toys_German_Panzer_38t_Light_Tank_p/us0143.htm

We have a great deal for fans of larger P-51 fans. Historical Aviation is offering the Corgi 1:32 scale P-51D Mustang Working Model "Jersey Jerk" for just $59.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091527&size=large

Not only does this limited edition, 1/32 scale die cast model of 13½-victory ace Donald Strait's P-51D Mustang "Jersey Jerk" include top-of-the-line features such as a removable engine cowl, a detailed cockpit with a sliding canopy, and movable flight control surfaces, it also includes powered features such as illuminated navigation lights, a fully operational undercarriage, and a spinning propeller with real engine sounds! You control the action through the specially designed base, so strap on your flight helmet and get ready for takeoff! 14¼" wingspan; arrives ready to display.

Get yours here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=10737&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF%20Fighters

Our last selection is from Canadian dealer Modeller's Choice. It is a hobby Master 1:48 scale Spitfire Mk.XIVc " R. Newbery" for $39.99 (including the 20% sale discount) in Canadian coin (or their very colorful bills).

http://www.modellerschoice.com/images/Products/HBM7102.jpg

If you are not from the land of the maple leaf, check your currency converter and then click here:

http://www.modellerschoice.com/DesktopDefault2.aspx?tabid=41&productid=9882

KG_Swampfox

03-23-2009, 08:47 PM

Bill,

The model of "Jersey Jerk" is outstanding.

One of the few models of a 356th Fighter Group P-51.

On an interesting side note, my former 148th commander flew with the 356th.
He flew with the 361st Fighter Squadron.

He had 1 kill, a ME 262. I've asked him to tell me the story about how he shot it down so many times, he goes the other way when he sees me now.

A great guy, a great commander, he retired as a brigadier general.

KG_Jag

03-30-2009, 12:48 AM

First--thanks to Pat, our Minn. ANG ace, for an excellent side bar concerning one of last week aircraft selections.

Like the NCAA, this week we feature out final four--for this month anyway. The first of these is a Corgi 1:50 scale Sherman brought to you by 3000Toys for $23.50.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/CORGI/CC51015.jpg

M4A4 Sherman V Observation Post Tank -Discontinued - Get them before they're gone.

147th Field Regiment, AGRA 2nd Army, Germany, February 1945

LIMITED EDITION The Army Group Royal Artillery (AGRA) was a late war innovation intended to group artillery regiments under the overall control of army commanders. Typically an AGRA would comprise one field artillery regiment, four medium regiments and one heavy regiment. The Observation Post Sherman was provided for the Troop Commander, probably in a self-propelled field artillery regiment. Outwardly conventional, it was fitted with a wooden gun barrel leaving the turret clear for map boards and other fixtures. The Essex Yeomanry was attached to the 8th Armoured Brigade and carried the Fox’s Head formation sign on the front of the tank.

With only two left, you better get here fast:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=CORGICC51015

Our second selection is from the Soviet side of the Eastern Front. Offered by DiecastAirplane for just $9.55, it is a Dragon 1:72 scale -34/76 Mod. 1942 "Red 37", 26th Armored Brigade, Ukraine, Dec 1943.

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/Shared/images/Dragon_Armor/DRR60224.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

T-34/76 Mod. 1942 "Red 37", 26th Armored Brigade, Ukraine, Dec 1943 (1:72) by Dragon Diecast Armor
Item Number: DRR60224
This model is one of our first titles of the Mod. 1942 version of the T-34 with Red 37 markings.

Main Features:
- Includes display case
- True to 1/72 scale
- Fully accurate T-34
- Detailed markings

About the T-34:
The ancestry of the T-34 derives from the BT series of fast tanks developed in the USSR in the 1930s. These were discovered to be too lightly armoured and armed for the sort of combat that would be expected. The T-34 took the BT's Christie-type suspension and incorporated it into a much more robust tank (The BTs were derived from prototype fast tanks built by American tank designer J. Walter Christie, which were sold to the Soviet Union after the American military declined to buy them. The T-34 incorporates elements of the Christie suspension, in particular the large road wheels).

Development proper commenced in 1936, and a prototype was completed in 1939. Full scale production started in 1940. The T-34 was produced in two major variants, the basic T-34/76 with a 76-mm gun (simply called T-34, in Soviet service), and the T-34/85 with an 85-mm gun.

Between 1940 and 1944 nearly 40,000 T-34/76 tanks were produced.

Report for winter combat here:

http://www.diecastairplane.com/store/p/19237-T-34-76-Mod-1942-Red-37-26th-Armored-Brigade-Ukraine-Dec-1943-1-72-.html

It's very tough to top a Carousel 1 Dora and that is the plane we feature next. In 1:48 scale from Crossroads for $59.99, we turn the spotlight on the Fw190D-9 Gerhard Barkhorn, JG 6 1945.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-94511236631939_2044_142734507

Here's the vector:

http://www.crossroadsdiecast.com/ca17.html

Our final selection is a very limited and unique livery of maybe the most famous fighter of World War II. From Gemini Aces by way of the Racer's Den for $29.95, it is the 1:72 scale P-51B Mustang Luftwaffe Rosarius Circus, Wunstorf Airfield, Germany, 1944, Captured Aircraft.

http://www.racersdeninc.com/v/vspfiles/photos/GJ-GALFT2007-2.jpg

Capture yours here:

http://www.racersdeninc.com/GeminiAces_P_51B_Mustang_Luftwaffe_Rosarius_Circus _p/gj-galft2007.htm

KG_Jag

04-05-2009, 10:25 PM

I found another great sale of Oryon 1:35 scale metal soldiers. This one is at Michigan Toy Soldier. The price is again just $19.99 for U.S. Paratroopers, 101st “Screaming Eagles” and 82nd “All American” 4 figures in 4 poses.

http://www.michtoy.com/MTSCnewSite/newmetal_folder/oryon/ory2003.jpg

Get 'em before they are gone, starting here:

http://www.michtoy.com/MTSCnewSite/newmetal_folder/oryon/ory2003.html

I can't remember seeing a German Sd. Kfz. 251 series half track in die cast until now. Made by a new player in the market, HJB, they come in the 1:32 scale and three favors: 1, 3 & 9. The price is $50.00 a pop from Minute Men Toy Soldiers.

HJB/AA1 250/1 $50.00
http://www.mmtoysoldiers.com/2005/pages/hjb/pics/HJBaa01.jpeg
HJB/AA2 250/3$50.00

http://www.mmtoysoldiers.com/2005/pages/hjb/pics/HJBaa02.jpeg HJB/AA3 250/9 $50.00

http://www.mmtoysoldiers.com/2005/pages/hjb/pics/HJBaa03.jpeg

Start your procurement process here:

http://www.mmtoysoldiers.com/2005/pages/hjb/hjbvehicles.html

Moving to the Allied side, we feature another 1:50 scale entry in the Corgi Skirmish line. This one can be had for only $19.95 from either Military Issue or Historical Aviation and is a M4A3 Sherman Tank.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091679&size=large

Recreating a scene from the Battle of the Bulge in December, 1944, this limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast Sherman tank set features a rotating turret and working tracks, add-on detail parts, a weathered appearance, and three figures of the U.S. infantrymen that accompanied the armored units in the Ardennes. 4½" long.

It's your choice either here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=11456&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation

or here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=11456&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation

We also have some interesting choices for our air warriors. The first is the now very rare 1:35 scale GMP P-51D Cripes A' Mighty for $148.68 at Go Hobbies.

http://www.discounttrainsonline.com/graphics/GMP/L51003.jpg

If you have the scratch, grab one while you still can here:

http://www.gohobbies.com/itemGMP-51003.html

Our last selection takes us into the jet age with a very good deal on a Corgi 1:72 scale lesser know classic, the RB57 A&AEE English Canberra Wiltshire 1984. The price at the Airplane Shop is just $33.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/catalogimages//cg34706.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/largephoto.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1554&item_num=CG34706)

Start your trip back in time to a quarter of a century ago here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1554

KG_Jag

04-12-2009, 09:51 PM

Happy Easter!

Our first armor pick is an oldie but goodie--indeed a one of a kind from Corgi. It's from their now hard to get 1:50 scale Forgotten Heroes line, the T34/85 TANK--NORTH KOREAN. Past-Time Hobbies has it at $35.99.

http://www.pthinc.com/userImages/productImages/t34%20tank.jpg;jsessionid=8CFA81EAFDBAEEC34DC37A44 A5D5CE5B

Better head south to Pusan and then click here:

http://www.pthinc.com/10/1728/MILITARY-LIST/CORGI-TANKS-VEHICLES/CORGI-ADVERSARIES-FORGOTTEN-HEROES-T34-85-TANK-NORTH-KNREAN-02

Our second Easter egg is quite a find, especially at its price. In 1:35 scale from Tamiya, its the Panzer IV Ausf. H from Military Issue for $78.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901525&size=large

Replicating the most common German tank of World War II, this professionally assembled and hand painted 1/35 scale plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an opening commander's hatch, an aluminum 7.5cm KwK 40 gun barrel, an anti-aircraft machine gun, turret and side armor, detailed metal tracks, authentic 2nd Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

Grab one here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10583&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor

These next two Easter chicks can fly. The first is a very good buy on a Corgi 1:72 scale AA35801 F-86 F Sabre-25th FIS,51st FIW,USAF,South Korea,1951 from OB's at only $20.95.

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/uploads/mad_mar.jpg

This way to Mig Alley:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/Qstore.cgi?CMD=011&PROD=1133753550

Our final selection is not a Mig, but is from the same homeland. From Pilotwear for $29.95, it's a 1:72 scale Witty Wings SU-27 Russian AF Blue 38 "Evil Eye".

http://www.pilotwear.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/Shared/images/Witty_Wings/WTY72014-07.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

This way to Georgian air space:

http://www.pilotwear.com/store/p/11444-SU-27-Russian-AF-Blue-38-Evil-Eye-1-72-.html

KG_Jag

04-19-2009, 03:24 PM

Our first pick this week is the difficult to find Figarti 1:32 scale WWII M3A3 Stuart Tank - Chinese Army in Burma from the Hobby Bunker at just $39.60.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/A32011.jpg

Ignore the "new" ribbon and click here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=11540

Our second pick is also rare these days. From the Corgi Forgotten Heroes line, this US Army Dodge Weapons Carrier is in the unusual 1:43 scale. Winkie's still has them at $21.99.

http://www.winkies.com/mmWINKIES/Images/480x480/CG51703.jpg

Load up here:

http://www.winkies.com/winkies/itemdesc.asp?ic=CG51703&eq=&Tp=

You better act quickly on our first flying find, as the Airplane Shop has just placed it in "low stock" status. For just $39.95, you can still grab a 1:32 scale Corgi RAF Hurricane--Douglas Bader 1940.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg35505.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1326)

Scramble here before they run out:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1326

Our second fantastic deal of the air comes from the weekly special page at Pro Star 2. To get it you have to call Toll Free Canada & US 1-866-393-2278. If you do so in time, you can pick up a 1:35 scale GMP 001438B21 Texas Longhorn P-40E Fighter Warhawk for $32.95. Their regular price of under $60 is not bad, but you cannot beat $32.95 for this bird.

http://www.prostar2collectibles.com/images/01000/001438.jpg

See the specials page:

http://www.prostar2collectibles.com/weeklyspecials1.html

Here it is every day:

http://prostar2collectibles.com/shopsite_sc/store/html/001438.html

KG_Jag

04-27-2009, 03:26 AM

We start this week with a Dragon 1:35 scale Tiger that Pete's has on closeout for just $49.95. It's the Tiger I ""#142"" (Initial Production), Sd. Kfz. 181, s.Pz.Abt.501, Tunisia 1942.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/DRR61001.JPG

Click here for one of the few desert Tigers:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=DRR61001#item

Our second pick is also hard to find today. It's a Matchbox 1:72 scale SHERMAN M4E5 w/105 mm howitzer on M4A3 hull from NotaToy for $15.95.

MATCHBOX (tolling was made by C.D.C. Armour)

Matchbox Collectibles Asst. 91737

Sherman M4E5 w/105 mm howitzer on M4A3 hull
Diorama ‘Forrest Crossing’, Ardennes 1944.
Die Cast 1/72 scale; Panther A is approximately L 3 ¾”; W 1 7/8”

The tank has a unit number on a turret (#21) and its nickname on a side (Black-Jack).

Despite relatively small size the model is exceptionally detailed and have a good paint job, display great! This is a great model of WW II most produced tank was originally developed by C.D.C. of Italy for their Armour Series in early 90’s. Later C.D.C. decided to concentrate their effort in 1/48 and 1/100 scales military aircraft models Armour Series and most armored vehicles models in 1/72 scale were sold to Matchbox, which sold it as a part of their Limited Edition Collectors Series that was available mostly as a subscription at Matchbox Direct Sale. The price on Armour badge models was $35.00 and Matchbox kept this price until the entire limited edition Collectors Line was abandoned a few years ago. I believe six models from the series were issued in a new very attractive packaging, which includes a plastic diorama stand with clear top packed in a window box. This series was available for sale in a range of $16-22. The series is out of production for a few years. Recently two new models were released by Matchbox in this series (Sherman w/75mm gun and Sherman 76mm long barrel gun w/camouflage painting), however both models released without a clear top for a display case.

Quality and details of C.D.C. Armour models are outstanding; models are diecast (unlike popular now Dragon Armor series, which has only some diecast parts if any – a Tiger tank mid and late production models are plastic and early production has only turret made of diecast). The only difference between original Armour Series models and Matchbox is Matchbox – Dinky name on the base plate of a model.

ABOUT THE TANK:
In August 1940 on the next day after M3 was rush into production, design work started on a project called T6 Medium tank, the design criteria was that it will have 75mm gun in a turret rotated 360 degree and it would reuse the maximum of components from M3. In September 1941 the T6 was standardize under the official title M4 Medium tank, which became widely known simply as Sherman with all its numerous modifications. It was armed with 75mm gun mounted in a one piece rounded casting, 3” thick in the front and power operated and gyro-stabilizer controlling the gun in elevation. Lover hull was welded while upper hull was available in different variants as welded (M4) and a cast (M4A1) both were approximately 2” /50.8” thick. Seven factories manufactured a total of 49,230 tanks. No other tank of WW II was produced in such quantity. During the production there were numerous modifications including a main gun upgrades from T6 to T7 standardized under 75mm M2 gun in May 1941 and in June 1941 to 75mm M3 gun that had higher velocity. In August 1942 more powerful 76mm gun (originally planed for use for abandoned project of M6 heavy tank) was proposed but unfortunately the project was ceased in November and only in July 1944 76mm gun Sherman went into production with about 2,000 tanks were produced. In early 1941 two Sherman tanks with 105mm howitzer were tested and some 4,680 M4E5 armed with M52 105mm howitzer, built on M4 and M4A3 hulls were manufactured.

Maneuverable, reliable, simple in maintenance and operation it was advertised to American military personal as a best tank in a world. But allies tankers learn about it shortcomings, often at cost of their comrades lives, very fast upon their first encounters with Germans, especially in Normandy. Inadequate armour and especially armament, easy fire ignition after a heat in a motor compartment made this an easy target for Germans. Panther tank could knock out a Sherman from a distance over 1,800 and Tiger much farther, while Sherman in general can do no damage to it even at 200-400 yards and to Tiger practically at any distance. Though a good infantry support tank it was no match to German tanks.
Under the Lend-Lease program the Sherman was supplied practically to all allies armies and saw battle in all parts of the world. British get a great success with rearming some Sherman with their long barrel high velocity gun. Such tanks were known as Firefly. Though not very accurate this gun was able to knock out Panther and Tiger tanks at a great distance (a Tiger armor could be penetrated at 1,500’).

They won't let me show you a picture of it, but you can see it here:

http://www.notatoy.com/product_info.php/cPath/320_45/products_id/1174

The MAP affected price for most new Corgi 1:72 scale single engine birds is now about $40. However, this week you can pick up a Corgi 1:32 scale Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA34905, Messerschmitt Bf 109G Diecast Model, Luftwaffe 2./JG 302, October 1944, Wilde Sau Nightfighter
Limited Edition for just $39.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34905_01_lrg.gif

Length: 11.25" Width 12.5"

Wilde Sau was a Luftwaffe night fighter control method. This was a target defense concept based on single engine fighters visually acquiring the bombers, either by their shadow on the clouds illuminated from below by the burning city or by the Flak searchlights. Wilde Sau has been described as innovated after the fire storm attack on Hamburg, but in fact experiments had been carried out in the Ruhr area 3 weeks prior. A new Jagddivision (30 JD) with JG 300, 301 and 302 was formed subordinated directly to Lw.Befh.Mitte (the later Lft.Reich). This very interesting aircraft was flown by 2.1JG 302 in October 1944 as a night fighter in home defense duties against Russian bombers. According to regulations for the period, the normal three-tone grey camouflage has been replaced by brown and dark green. The rare JG 302 "Wilde Sau" emblem is on both sides of the cowling, and depicts a Red devil riding a wild boar.

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/corgi-aviation-archive/collector-series)

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.Messerschmitt Bf 109G Designed (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_FTR_BF109) by Willy Messerschmitt during Germany's military build-up in the 1930's, the Bf 109 was first flown on May 28th, 1935.

Grab one here while you still can:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CG-AA34905

Our final pick this week is a 1:72 scale Corgi P-38J Lightning 1/72 Die Cast Model--1st Lt. Richard Loehnert, 20th FG, "California Cutie". historic Aviation has it for just $14.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091807&size=large

Replicating "California Cutie," a 20th Fighter Group P-38 flown on more than 70 combat missions by 1st Lt. Richard Loehnert, this 1/72 scale, limited edition die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a clear canopy and a figure of Loehnert, machine guns in the nose, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, authentic markings including nose art and D-Day stripes, a display stand and more. 8" wingspan.

Check it out here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12222&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF%20Fighters

However, because Historic Aviation has been known to ship replacement products without advance notice to the customer, I strongly suggest that you call and talk to them if you decide to place an order.

KG_Jag

05-04-2009, 01:21 AM

Hello from the road and very pretty and cool Flagstaff, AZ.

This weeks first armor pick is another hard to get 1:72 Matchbox tank. This time it is the U.S. M4A3 Sherman from the recently updated Foxhole Toys site. They still have it and so can you for $24.95.

http://us.st12.yimg.com/us.st.yimg.com/I/yhst-75496263108875_2047_63223180

1:72 scale Die Cast metal Matchbox Collectibles WWII US M4A3 Sherman Medium Tank with short-barreled 75mm gun!

Rotating turret mounting the short-barreled 75mm gun!
Made of heavy diecast metal!
Painted in olive-drab & dark green camouflage!

Please click on image to view close up!
Here's the link:

http://store.foxholetoys.com/mb-10002.html

Our second armor selection is a 1:48 Tamiya Masterwork TA26516 1/48 Jagdpanther Late Version - Finished V. Micro Macro Mundo has it for $49.23.

http://www.rocousa.com/TAMIYA/TA26516.jpg (http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26516)

You can find it here:

http://www.rocousa.com/DETAIL.ASP?PRODUCT_ID=TA26516

Our first aircraft pick is an excellent deal offer by Bad Cat on F-8E Crusader Shamrocks 1:72 scale Century Wings 601482 for just $37.99--and that's before you take off an additional 5% by applying the on page coupon code.

http://ep.yimg.com/ip/I/badcattoys_2053_16235367

1:72 scale premium diecast display aircraft by Century Wings. U.S.Marine Corps VMF(AW)-333 FIGHTING SHAMROCKS DN7 1967.

Model Features:

Preassembled and Painted
Historically Authentic Paint Scheme
Accurate Panel Lines and Surface Details
Diecast Metal Construction
Removable Ordinance
Display Stand Included
Positionable Landing Gear
6" Wingspan
9" Length
For Adult Collectors
CW-601482

Check it all out here:

http://www.badcataviation.com/fcrsh1cewi60.html

Last but certainly not least we feature a great deal on a fantastic newer Corgi 1:72 scale bird. From Motormint for just $59.98, it's the Junkers JU.52 Minesweeper.

http://www.motormint.com/ProductImages/fullsize07/AA36902.jpg

Tante Ju to the Rescue
The Junkers JU.52 was Germany's most famous military transport during WWII. Called Tante Ju (Aunt Ju) by the Axis and Iron Annie by the Allies, its 3-engine version was first built in 1931 and used as both a transport and bomber. Like many German aircraft of that era, it was outdated by the late 1930's but no adequate replacement was available. In WWII the Ju.52 was no longer suitable as a bomber (too slow and vulnerable to fighters) but still adequate for transport. With the addition of a Dural hoop that generated a magnetic field which detonated magnetically fused land mines, it served as a minesweeper in almost every European battlefront.

Features:
• Metal Display Stand Included
• Corgi Limited Edition of 1960!
• Precision Die-Cast Replica
• 1:72 Scale Model
• 10.5 Inches Long

With company it's best to phone in your order after you see it here:

http://www.motormint.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=1690

KG_Jag

05-12-2009, 01:56 AM

We're a little late this week due to the celebration of the marriage of one of our KG brothers. Best wishes Steve and Michelle!

Another big event in the last few days was the release of the Star Trek prequel movie. That event inspires our first selection, the Corgi Corgi Klingon Bird Of Prey - 40TH Anniversary. The Airplane Shop has it for just $10.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg96608.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1628)

Polished raw casting of this fantastically detailed die-cast replica. Ship mounted on lights and with many different settings. Presentation box features star charts of the Klingon Empire.

Aim all phasers and photon torpedoes here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1628

Back on Earth, we turn to our armor picks this week. The first is a good selection for the budget minded. For just $7.77 from Diecast Direct you can get a 1:72 scale Forces of Valor U.S. M4A1 Sherman w/Mine Roller "Normandy 1944.

Diecast Direct won't let me show you a picture, but you can link to it here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=FV85024

Our second armor pick is the Corgi 1:50 scale Corgi Cruiser Tank MKVII A27M Cromwell Mark VI 1/50 (CG60604). The Airplane Shop has it for $19.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg60604.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1158)

This way to the armored HE chucker:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1158

Both of our air selects this week are Corgi 1:48 scale warbirds. The first is another offering from the Airplane Shop and at only $15.95. It is the Corgi SE5A Raf Lt Ca Lewis Nightfigter.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg37701.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1641)

Get on its tail here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1641

Our last pick this week is the Spad XIII 1/48 Die Cast Model Capt. Charles J. Biddle, 13th Aero Squadron, 1918. Military Issue can put it in our kit bag for just $23.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0091801&size=large

Replicating the colorful SPAD XIIIC-1 flown by 7-victory ace Capt. Charles J. Biddle of the 13th Aero Squadron, U.S. Army Air Service, in 1918, this limited edition, 1/48 scale die cast model features simulated fabric surfaces, real wire bracing, a detailed radiator and a rotating propeller, a figure of Biddle in the cockpit, authentic markings including a commander's tri-color band and the Grim Reaper with a bloody scythe on the fuselage, and more. 6¾" wingspan; arrives ready to display on the included stand.

It's over there:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=5944&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=WWI

KG_Jag

05-18-2009, 04:54 AM

We start this week with something for those who love both land and sea. From Dragon in the 1:72 scale by way of Pilotwear for $18.99, we feature the LCM(3) Landing Craft w/Ranger figures and crew.

http://www.pilotwear.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/shared/images/Dragon_Armor/DRR60205.jpg&lr=t&bw=600&bh=600

An excellent addition to your armor collection! This 1/700 item is fully finished and includes a beach scene diorama, beach obstacles, six Ranger figures and even crew figures. Don't miss this great title!

Main Features:
- 1st LCM(3) Landing Craft in the series!
- Includes a realistic beach diorama scene
- Includes beach obstacles
- Includes 6 Ranger figures and LCM(3) crew
- Fully assembled and detailed
- True to 1/700 scale
- Detailed markings

About the LCM(3) landing craft:
The Landing Craft, Mechanized (mark 3) was designed to land one medium (30 ton) tank, or motor vehicles directly on the beach. This vehicle was used extensively in WW2 and was critical in many operations.

Land and sea link is here:

http://www.pilotwear.com/store/p/2895-LCM-with-Rangers-1-72-.html

The Toy Federation and Forces of Valor take us to the North African desert with the 1:32 scale Grant, if you pony up the $32.00.

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/files/t_18755.jpg

Forces of Valor 1:32 Scale U.K. M3 Grant - El Alamein.
The M3 Grant was a United States tank design that was modified for the British Army. The British Government had sought a complete British design, but had to accept a modified U.S. designed Tank. The British Army did not like the high profile of the standard U.S. turret, so they offered a lower profile turret with more crew space that would fit within the same turret ring.

Please note that all forces of valor which we sell are the “Enthusiast” grade, not the basic “action” grade available at mass market stores.

Meet Monty and the lads here:

http://www.thetoyfederation.com/product.php?productid=18755&cat=0&page=1

We move from the desert to the jungle with our next selection, as well as a few decades forward in time. Beck's still has the Corgi 1:50 scale
M48 A3 - 1st Tank BN, "Disaster" USMC, Vietnam. You can grab one while they are still available for $29.95.

https://www.bacdiecast.com/images/products/US50309_lg.jpg (http://javascript:;)

Hell no, you won't go here:

https://www.bacdiecast.com/product_info.php?cPath=56&products_id=476

When looking for an early 2003 Corgi release, you may find yourself off the beaten path. That is certainly the case for our 1:72 scale F4U-1D Corsair, White 167, 57803. Lt. CDR. Roger R. Hendrick, VF-84, USS Bunker Hill, Feb 1945, which we found at The Ancient Mariner for only $26.00.

http://ep.yimg.com/ip/I/seagifts_2054_69282808

Hedrick commanded VF-84 until he assumed command of the Air Group following the death of the previous commander. In this aircraft, he destroyed 2 Franks and a Zero on Feb 24th 1945, bring his final score to 12 aircraft destroyed and 4 damaged. This model is as it appeared at the time. Scale: 1/72, Wingspan: 6.75"

Set sail to this weathered bird from this port:

http://seagifts.com/vof4u1dconvf.html

Our final pick this week is from Pete's Gemini Aces specials. In the 1:72 scale and for only $16.99, we feature none other than ADOLF GALLAND, and his LUFTWAFFE Bf 109F-4.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/GA3002.JPG

Light a cigar and go here while they are still in stock:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=GeminiJets&ItemNo=GA3002#item

KG_Jag

05-24-2009, 01:10 AM

Our selections this Memorial Day weekend salute all our vets and those men and women currently serving in the armed forces.

Our first pick is from Bad Cat's Memorial Day sale. It's a Hobby Master 1:48 scale diecast aircraft. Supermarine Spitfire Mk. XIVe, RN135, RAF 17 Squadron, Autumn 1945, "Ginger Lacey" for just $35.00.

http://ep.yimg.com/ip/I/badcattoys_2056_22516828

The name Spitfire came from a nickname the director of Vickers-Armstrongs had for his spirited daughter. There were 24 marks of the Spitfire and many sub-variants. The Mk. XIV was only an interim variant until the Mk. XVIII could be produced. The Spitfire was the only Allied aircraft in continuous production throughout WWII with 957 Mk. XIVs being produced. The Mk. XIV received several modifications such as a bubble canopy, a modified rear fuselage. The Mk. XIVe had the universal armament wing and the FR Mk. XIVe had the clipped wings and photo-recon equipment.

James Harry "Ginger" Lacey was one of the RAF’s top scoring pilots of WWII with 28 confirmed kills, 4 probables and 9 damaged aircraft. Lacey had other notable achievements such as becoming C/O of No. 17 Squadron in November 1944, he was shot down or forced to land 9 times and he was the first Spitfire pilot to fly over Japan. He was one of a few RAF pilots that were on operational duty on the first day of WWII as well as the last.

Act fast and click here:

http://www.badcataviation.com/spmkxi1homah.html

Our second pick is from The Flying Mule's Memorial Day Sale. This one is a Corgi 1:72 scale Aviation Archive Collector Series AA34804--Vickers Wellington Mk VIII Diecast Model, RAF No.221 Sqn Special Duties Flight--
Limited Edition for just $49.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA34804_06_thm.jpg

1:72 Scale Length: 10.25" Width: 14.25"

The reason Malta was so critical to Allied fortunes in the Middle East was because of its strategic location. Lying midway along the Mediterranean and halfway between Italy and the North Africa, it was the perfect place from which to attack Axis shipping heading to Libya. It is no coincidence that whenever Axis attacks on the island intensified, Axis fortunes in North Africa improved. Working with the Royal Navy, steadily increasing numbers of RAF bombers - Wellingtons, Blenheims, Beauforts and attack aircraft like the Beaufighterplayed a crucial role in attacking enemy shipping. HX604:X flew with No.221 Sqn, Special Duties Flight from late 1941 and was painted in the scheme of Extra Dark Sea Grey and Dark Slate Grey upper surfaces and Night underside specifically for this theatre of operations.

Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/corgi-aviation-archive/collector-series)

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.Vickers Wellington Mk VIII (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_BMR_WELLINGTON)

Designed to meet a British Air Ministry specification for a heavy bomber , the Wellington was first flown on June 15th, 1936.

Click fast as sales items having been dropping off the radar:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CG-AA34804

Our first armor selection is an outstanding deal on a Dragon 1:35 scale 1./sPzAbt.101 France 1944 King Tiger from Atlantic Toys for just $39.95.

http://stores.homestead.com/AtlanticToys/catalog/m_DRR61017.jpg

Get this big boy here:

http://stores.homestead.com/AtlanticToys/Detail.bok?no=594

OK, it's time to get a U.S. AFV on the board. The Airplane Shop still has a few of the very hard to find Corgi 1:50 scale M106 Mortar Track US Army for $43.95.

[http://www.airplaneshop.com/catalogimages//cg51102.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/largephoto.html?tablename=CORGI&id=548&item_num=CG51102&PHPSESSID=bb3394ab6c10a606aaf15eca6406d3e2)

Troop, 1st Sq., 4th US Cavalry, 1st Division. This Corgi model is based on the ubiquitous M113 family of vehicles. They were fast, could ford water, and had enough armor to repel up to a .50-caliber ricochet. The M106 carried a highly effective 4.2-inch mortar with an effective range of 1.5 miles. The model comes complete with a detailed interior including the characteristic sandbag-covered floor to protect against land mines. This track was commanded by Sergeant Bill Baty and found itself in one hell of a firefight on November 12, 1965, which saw the first use of M106s in combat in Vietnam.

Stock is low, so don't wast time clicking here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=548

KG_Jag

06-01-2009, 02:07 AM

This week I found some more Oryon 1:35 scale World War II soldiers on sale for just $14.95 and they are again being offered by Military Issue. They have more than one set, but all types appear to be going fast, as they did a couple months back. Still shown to be in stock are the 101st Airborne Division.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500623&size=large

Amazingly detailed and hand-painted by expert craftsmen, these four 1/35 scale metal figures - depicting 101st Airborne Division "Screaming Eagles" during World War II - are historically accurate right down to their realistic uniforms and weapons. Each measures approximately 2" tall and arrives ready to display.

If interested, call them or jump onto this link now:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=13607&product=Figures&category=air&subcategory=Units

Our first armor selection is also an item back on sale at Military Issue. This 1:35 scale Tamiya Materwork Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. G for $79.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M800791&size=large

Hand assembled and painted by expert modelers, this fully assembled 1/35 scale plastic and metal model of a World War II Sturmgeschütz III Ausf.G features an aluminum gun barrel with a muzzle brake, optional-position hatches, photo-etched engine grilles, a machine gun shield, removable side skirts, realistic metal tracks, plenty of tools and equipment, a camouflage scheme and authentic 237th Sturmgeschütz Brigade markings, and more. Measures approximately 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

Assault this gun here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=12410&product=Kits&category=land&subcategory=Armor

Our second AFV is also a Tamiya Masterwork but in a smaller 1:48 scale. At Great Models, it is a TAM26519 M4A1 Sherman Tank No.12 for $38.50.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Tamiya/TAM26519.JPG

Olive drab base with red brown camo with weathering effects. Pre-painted with die-cast lower chassis.

Get one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=TAM26519

For our fans of the military flying machine, we have two great deals this week from off the beaten path. The first is from Toy Train Heaven and is a 1:72 scale Witty F/A-18E HORNET VFA-14 USN for just $11.83.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/9025-720073S.jpg

Follow the ball to here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Witty%20Diecast/59104053/Witty%20Diecast%20Airplanes%20F%5E2FA-18E%20HORNET%20VFA-14%20USN%201%3A72%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2416.85

Our final selection this week is from Apollo, which mainly carries Carousel 1 cars, but we feature one their 1:48 scale planes (all of which are on sale)--the Fw190D-13 /Franz Goetz/ JG 26 May 1945 - LTD to 1200. It's yours for $42.00.

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/7143.jpg

7143 German Luftwaffe
Focke-Wulf 190D 'Dora-13'

JG 26 "Schlageter" Flensburg, Germany, May 1945

Major Franz GOTZ (63 Victories) http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/7143R.jpg
In July 1944 Germany introduced the Messerschmitt Me 262, the first jet aircraft in combat. Allied pilots were astonished by its speed-100mph faster than the best Allied fighters-and quick to find its weakness-it was vulnerable at take-off and particularly at landing. So the Luftwaffe arranged for conventional fighters to cover the jets over their air bases, because during 1945 German skies were blanketed by American, British, and Soviet aircraft.

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/7143_bottom_sm.jpg Adolf Galland was dismissed from his position as General of Fighters because Germany was overwhelmed by Allied air attacks and Reichsmarschall Hermann Göring needed a scapegoat. In February 1945, Göring authorized Galland to form a Jagdverband (Special Fighter Squadron) of experienced pilots to fly the Me 262.
Click here to read the entire history of this pilot and plane! (http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/7142_History.pdf)
It is our proud honor to offer this Carousel 1 die-cast, 1:48 scale replica of the famous Focke-Wulf 190D.
With this model you'll see Carousel 1's dedication to authenticity and detail. The model is 1:48 SCALE and has: http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/7143_canopyopen_sm.jpg

Model wingspan 9-1/4"/235mm
Model length 8"/222mm
Model weighs more than 1 lb/.46kg
Full cockpit detail
Glazed instruments
Removable Pilot Figure
NO Exposed screws
Decorative Display Base
Get this outstanding bird here:

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/prodinfo.asp?number=7143

KG_Jag

06-07-2009, 12:54 AM

As we mark the 65th anniversary of the Normandy landings, we dedicate these week's selections to all of those who were there in 1944.

Our first selection this week is another Oryon 1:35 scale find at Military Issue for just $14.95. From the Eastern Front near Kirovograd, we have a four piece set of soldiers representing both sides of the conflict there.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500613&size=large

From December, 1943, to January, 1944, German forces battled Russian offensive actions on the Eastern Front near Kirovograd. These carefully crafted, hand painted 1/35 scale metal figures show Ramcke's German Fallschirmjaegers ready to attack the Russian Army's 67th Armored Division in that famous battle. 2" tall.

Click here and see if Schultz and Klink have reported for duty:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=721&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Units

Staying put on the Eastern Front, your next selection is a Dragon 1:35 scale DIECAST Sd.Kfz.184 ELEFANT Russia from Toy train Heaven for just $32.89.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR61005.jpg (http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/prodd.asp?pid=DRR61005#)

1/35 Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant sPzJgAbt 653, Russia/Poland 1944

When first introduced onto the Eastern Front at the Battle of Kursk in 1943, the Elefant, like the animal it was named after, became bit of an endangered species! It was powerful but ponderous, able to kill tanks from long ranges, but unable to defend against infantry at close ranges. Some of its defensive shortcomings were later rectified by the addition of a bow machine gun, while its 8.8cm PaK43/2 L/71 gun remained as lethal as ever. Dragon Armor has released a new 1/35 scale Sd.Kfz. 184 Elefant, which is finished in the colors and markings of a vehicle serving with PzJgAbt 653, one of the original units that fielded this new type of tank destroyer at Kursk. The three-color camouflage scheme is highly attractive, with mottled green and brown patches over a yellow base.

Main Features:
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully assembled
- Accurate tracks with appropriate level of sag
- Barrel can elevate and lower.
- Includes a display base

As with the previous limited edition Elefant, this is a superb collectors’ piece. The unblemished paint scheme is realistically weathered to represent an Elefant fighting on the Eastern Front in 1944. The lifelike tracks have just the right degree of sag, while the hull machine gun is movable. The long barrel (or should we say trunk?) of the Elefant also elevates and depresses. This fully assembled model bears a host of remarkable features, and with such a fine specimen as this, the survival of the Elefant species is assured!

Get your peanuts and grab one here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Millitary--Dragon%20Armor%20Diecast/59400079/DRAGON%20ARMOR%20DIECAST%20Sd.Kfz.184%20ELEFANT%20 Russia%201%3A35%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2446.85

No--you can't leave the Eastern Front yet, as our next selection is a 1:50 scale Corgi Battle of Kursk Diorama from July 1943. This item is presented by Historic Aviation for $39.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091777&size=large

Recreating a scene from the Battle of Kursk - the largest armored engagement of all time where Russian defenses frustrated an ambitious German attack - this limited edition 1/50 scale diorama includes one T-34 and one Tiger tank meeting in battle and a display base. Each die cast model features authentic camouflage, a rotating turret and moving tracks and measures 5" long.

Get to the action here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12069&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=243

It's time to present our aircraft collectors with their picks this week. Our first selection is no longer on the Eastern Front--but many will think it to be close. From Showcase Toys, we feature a Corgi 1:72 scale P-40E Warhawk Model, USAAF 11th FS "Aleutian Tigers" - Corgi AA35205 for $23.95.

http://ep.yimg.com/ip/I/showcasetoys_2058_32377428

Corgi Limited Edition Diecast Model

Curtiss P-40 E Warhawk - 11th FS "Aleutian Tigers", USAAF, Aleutian Islands, 1943

1:72 scale. Wingspan: 6.25" (15.9 cm). Includes display stand

The P-40's of the 11th FS, 343rd FG were painted in a variation on the theme made famous by the American Volunteer Group (A.V.G., also known as Flying Tigers), and were known as the Aleutian Tigers. This version with a white spinner was one of the latest P-40 's to still be flying when attached to the 11th Fighter Squadron in 1943

The P-40's legacy will always be as the aircraft flown by Claire Chennault's American Volunteer Group (A.V.G or also known as the Flying Tigers). 100 P-40's (considered obsolete) were given to the Chinese in 1941. In approximately 6 months of combat the AVG officially destroyed 297 planes with another 153 probables. All of this was accomplished with the loss of only 12 P-40's.

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate markings and optional extended or retracted landing gear.

Here's your ticket to 24 hours of sun light (for now):

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa35205.html

Our final selection this week takes us forward in time. From Buffalo Road it is a 1:50 scale Verem Gazelle Hot military helicopter for $20.00.

http://www.constructionscalemodels.com/pictures/VER7003_01.JPG

Set down here:

http://www.constructionscalemodels.com/productdetail.aspx?recid= 4088

KG_Jag

06-15-2009, 03:05 AM

Today is both Flag Day and the last week of spring.

We begin this week with the now difficult to find 1:43 scale Corgi M151 Jeep Recoilless Rifle US Army from Aviation-Models for $19.95.

http://www.aviation-models.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/50104.jpg

Drive to it by way of this route:

http://www.aviation-models.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=AM&Product_Code=US50104&Category_Code=SI

The Airplane Shop also has tanks, including this 1:50 scale CG60108 Corgi Churchill Tank UK for just $19.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/catalogimages//cg60108.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/largephoto.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1154&item_num=CG60108)

She's still on patrol here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1154

Toy Train Heaven still has some great deals on Witty 1:72 scale planes. One of the best is on the F-16C FALCON Belgian AF with a stand for just $8.39,

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/9025-720101S.jpg

Your flight over Europe begins here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Witty%20Diecast/59811435/Witty%20Diecast%20Airplanes%20F-16C%20FALCON%20Belgian%20AF%201%3A72%20%20%2C%20LI ST%20PRICE%20%2411.94

Finally I discovered a couple of very difficult to to find Corgi 1:144 scale versions of the Handley Page Victors at Randy's Die Cast. He has at least one of each left in stock for $48.00 a piece. If you act in time, you get either the 48701 Victor K.2 Tanker XM715, Bruntingthorpe:

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/48701.jpg

or the 48702Victor B.Mk2 XL158, No. 100 Sqn, RAF Wittering:

http://www.randysdiecast.com/newair/48702.jpg

Go down just short of half way down this page to find them:

http://www.randysdiecast.com/diecast.htm

KG_Jag

06-22-2009, 05:50 AM

Summer has officially arrived and maybe some these deals will begin to match the heat of the season.

Our first offering this week is a 1:50 Corgi Operation Market Garden Churchill Mk.VII Tank with Paratroopers from Historical Aviation for $19.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091676&size=large

Recreating a scene from the failed Operation Market Garden of September, 1944, this limited edition, 1/50 scale die cast Churchill tank set features a rotating turret and working tracks, add-on detail parts, a weathered appearance, and three figures of the British paratroopers that accompanied the armored units to the Rhine. Measures 6" long.

This is the LZ:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=11453&product=Models+and+Kits&category=flying&subcategory=Non-Aviation

Our second pick is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor U.S. M142 HIMARS from Pam's Dream at $32.00.

You can see it here:

http://www.pamsdream.com/servlet/the-840/U.S.-M142-HIMARS/Detail

This week the bad news leaked out the Carousel 1 will not longer make their line of 1:48 scale airplanes. So grab them now while you can still get--and at good prices to boot. This week we feature a World War I warbird from this collection, Nieuport 11 / Norman Prince / Verdun 1916-LTD to 1200 copies- for $42.00 at Apollo.

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/6141.jpg

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/6141C.jpg

#6141 Lafayette Escadrille (France)NIEUPORT 11 BEBEhttp://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/images/6141R.jpg
Escadrille Americaine N.124 Verdun 1916
Adjudant Norman Prince (4 victories)
The Nieuport 11 was the first airplane designed to be a fighter. Even in 1916, when the Nieuport 11 defined the cutting edge of military aviation and was responsible for ending the “Fokker Scourge” pilots thought it was so small and cute that they nicknamed it “Baby.”

With this model you'll see Carousel 1's dedication to authenticity and
detail. The model is 1:48 SCALE and has:

Assembled Diecast Model
Decorative Display Base
Nieuport wingspan 6-1/8"/155mm
Bracing and Control Wiring Detail
Simulated Wood Grain Propeller
Removable Pilot Figure
Cockpit Detail
Authentic gray not black tires
Get your rocket festooned biplane here:

http://www4.mailordercentral.com/apollo/prodinfo.asp?number=6141

I spotted this next selection almost a week ago and now Diecast Direct has only a few left of these 1:72 scale Corgi Hadley Page "Halifax / Halton Berlin Airlift" for $74.97 and free shipping.

They won't let me show you a picture of this big red bird, but you can see it here (at least while they last):

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=C37205

KG_Jag

06-29-2009, 03:02 AM

June is almost gone, so these will be our last picks until after July 4th or later. Our first armor selection this week is an excellent and very fine 21st Century not-so-difficult-to-assemble 1:32 scale kit of the Sherman Firefly Vc. Monkey Depot has it for just $5.95.

They won't let me show you a picture, but can check it out here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/21st_Century_Toys_1_32_MODEL_Sherman_Firefly_Vc_p/us0153.htm

Our next pick is a 1:50 scale Corgi Marine flame tank from the Korean War. Zion still has them for $32.95.

http://www.zionantiquemall.com/page112/img1.gif

Light a flame under your mouse hand and click here:

http://www.zionantiquemall.com/page112/

Our first flying pick is a great deal on a Vietnam era chopper. Corgi makes it, a Corgi CH34C Us Army Virginia 1966 US ARMY CH34, in 1:72 scale. The Airplane Shop will sell you one for only $19.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/catalogimages//cg37604.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/largephoto.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1724&item_num=CG37604)

The landing pad is here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1724

Our final pick this week and month is an excellent deal on a Corgi 1:72 scale Hawker Typhoon NF Mk.Ib--Royal Aircraft Establishment. Military issue has it for just $14.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0091902&size=large

Featuring the night fighter markings of a Royal Aircraft Establishment Typhoon stationed at Boscombe Down, this limited edition 1/72 scale die cast model of Britain's most successful World War II attack plane features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a clear canopy and a pilot figure, wing-mounted cannons, a rotating propeller, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, and more. 6¾" wingspan; includes a display stand.

Grab one here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=6016&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Allied Fighters

KG_Jag

07-06-2009, 01:40 AM

I hope that everyone had a great 4th of July weekend. There was a want of July 4th sales this year, but there have been a couple that arrived a day or so late.

Our first pick this week is a 1:35 (54 mm) scale British LRG Jeep w/ 2 Man Crew Standing (Item No.: B3002A) from Figarti by way of Hobby Bunker for $69.00.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/B3002.jpg

They were last seen patrolling here:

http://www.hobbybunker.com/details.cfm?ID=14000&scatID=471

Our next two items feature excellent prices from JT's. However beware that shipping prices are higher than usual and the placing an order may be a hassle, especially if you are not paying through Paypal and have a sufficient balance to cover your order.

The first of these is a 1:72 scale Hobby Master Centurion Mk 5 West Berlin HG3502 for just $9.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/hobbymaster_centurion_3502.jpg&w=170&h=111
(http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_centurion_3502.jpg)
Travel back to the Cold War here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-centurion-west-berlin-hg3502-p-378.html

Our second Cold War offering from JT's takes us to the air. It is the 1:72 scale Hobby Master F-100 Super Sabre Triple Zilch HA2103 for just $19.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/hobbymaster_f100_2103.jpg&w=170&h=111 (http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_f100_2103.jpg)

On CAP here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-f100-super-sabre-triple-zilch-ha2103-p-507.html

Our final pick this week is 1:32 scale Hobby Master Douglas SBD-2 Dauntless Vb-2, USS Lexington Cv-2, 1941 from Diecast Direct for a very good price of $119.96.

General Background
The Douglas “Dauntless” was the workhorse for the US Navy during the WWII. This “Slow but Deadly” dive-bomber was the only plane that had fight in every major Pacific conflicts. Although it had been considered obsolete in 1941 already, the Dauntless was used until 1944 and undertook the last major conflict in the Battle of Philippine Sea. A total of 5,936 SBDs were produced in WWII.

The Aircraft

The Douglas SBD-2 BuNo 2106 is perhaps one of the most legendary "Dauntless" in history. It survived the Japanese Pearl Harbor attack and rejoined the VB-2 on the USS Lexington on Dec.12, 1941.

Most significantly, the aircraft is the only surviving naval aircraft of any type known to have played a role in the pivotal "Battle of Midway". During the attack, the Dauntless collected between 210-259 bullet holes from Zeros and Japanese warships but the pilot managed to stagger back to a crash landing at Midway.

On 11 June 1943, the aircraft stalled and spun into Lake Michigan during a routine carrier landing qualification flight and it was not until Jan. 1994 the Dauntless was recovered for the National Museum of Naval Aviation.

Dimensions:

Length:32 ft., 8 in.
Height:13 ft., 7 in.
Wingspan:41ft., 6 in.
Weights: Empty:6,345 lb.Gross:10,400 lb.
Power plant:One 1,000 horsepower Wright R-1820-52 engine Performance: Maximum Speed: 250 M.P.H.
Maximum Range with Bomb Load:1,345 miles
Service Ceiling: 27,100 ft.Crew:Pilot and gunner/radio operator
Armament:Two fixed forward-firing .50-in. guns, two flexible-mounted rear-firing .30-in. guns, 1,200 lb. of ordnance.

http://www.hobbymastercollector.com/sitebuilder/images/HA0201-2300-176x83.jpg

Get her in pre-war neutral yellow here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=HM-HA0201

P.S. With the Diecast Direct coupon code, the price is reduced to $109.96

KG_Jag

07-13-2009, 03:49 AM

This week our selections will be heavy with some excellent buys from the Bastille Day sale at Great Models. Unfortunately some of the great prices on some interesting items, such as a Dragon 1:35 scale King Tiger, have been returned to their pre-sale levels. However, we will include a couple more excellent deals from other sites as well.

First--and as a bit of bonus we have the Dragon 1:35 scale DRR61009 Super Heavy Self-Propelled Mortar 60cm Morser Ziu from Great Models for just $49.95.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61009.JPG

Detailed die cast & plastic parts, accurate painting and weathering, clear display case, fully assembled. Assembled in firing position with 3 color camo scheme. Includes bonus shell.

Grab this big boy here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61009

On now to our regular AFV selections. Our first is also from Dragon and Great Models in the 1:35 scale. Offered for $39.95, it is a DRR61026 Sd.Kfz.184 Elefant 2./s.Pz.Abt.653, Poland 1944 w/ Zimmerit.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR61026.JPG

Features:
- Open window display packaging
- Highly popular and collectible item
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully accurate mold
- Fully assembled
- Historically accurate markings and insignia
- Includes protective display case

Bring your long-johns, head east and meet here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR61026

Our next AFV is in the unusual 1:43 scale from German Aircooled and Schuco for $18.85.

Schuco Military Sd.Kfz. 231, Germany 1944 http://www.germanaircooled.com/mall/Schuco/Logo%20MilitarySeries.jpg

Weight1.20 LBhttps://www.germanaircooled.com/cart/shop_image/product/3246376.jpg

The recon mission begins here:

http://www.germanaircooled.com/cart/index.php?page=shop/flypage&product_id=1068&category_id=bac918dc2066521447e1d1df65d4a04f

Our first aircraft selection is a now very difficult to find Corgi 1:32 scale P-51 Mustang Stinger VII Maj Robert Moore from Toy Headquarters for $59.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG_aa34401.jpg

- Corgi 1/32 Scale, Aviation Archives
- DieCast Metal
- Very Detailed
- Length 11 3/4 inches
- Wingspan 14 inches
- Removable gun covers with fitted machine guns and ammunition
- Removable engine cover with fully detailed engine
- Moving flaps, rudder, air brakes, ailerons, and elevators with fully retractable undercarriage
- Sliding cockpit canopy with detailed pilot figure
- Comes with a display stand

Top ace of the 7th Air Force, Robert 'Todd' Moore scored his first victory in a P-40N on January 26, 1944 when flying with the 45th FS/15th FG on a long-range interception over Arno Atoll.

He then had to wait until April 1945 to add to this, when he had returned to his initial posting of the 78th FS which had now begun flying Long Range Empire Missions from Iwo Jima in P-51D fighters. Transferring to the 45th FS in May he began piloting `Stinger VII` and in this aircraft he scored the final 6 of his 12 victories including an amazing 3 kills in one fifteen minute period on May 28, 1945 while flying in a group of 101 Mustangs protecting a fleet of 400 B-29 bombers attacking Yokohama. his final victory came on July 29, ten days after becoming the CO of the 45th. He remained commander of the unit until VJ day, the day which also saw him fly his 150th combat sortie in 37 months in the Pacific.

Your Pacific flight plan begins here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_59_76&products_id=810&osCsid=5309fdde1096a3e894fba470bc4e4082&osCsid=5309fdde1096a3e894fba470bc4e4082

Our final selection this week takes us back to Dragon and Great Models. It is a 1:72 scale DRW50136 F/A-18E Super Hornet VFA-31 Tomcatters for $19.95. Neither site has a picture of the actual model--you'll have to go to The Flying Mule or some other site for that. All I can show you is a drawing:

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRW/l/l_DRW50136.jpg (http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/prodd.asp?pid=DRW50136#)

Case Pack: 10 pieces per case
Box Size: 10.2" x 10.2" x 3.1"

Special Features:
- 1/72 Authentic Scale
- High Quality Diecast Metal
- Historically Accurate
- Detailed Cockpits
- Pre-assembled

The “Tomcatters” is a U.S. Navy strike fighter squadron based at NAS Oceana. This squadron, VFA-31, flies the F/A-18E Super Hornet exclusively. Founded on 1 July 1935 as VF-1B “Shooting Stars”, the squadron has an illustrious history. Most recently it participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom while aboard USS Abraham Lincoln where it flew 585 sorties. At the time, the “Tomcatters” was flying F-14D Tomcats. The unit’s farewell to its Tomcats occurred in September 2006 during the “Tomcat Sunset”. It was the Navy’s last operational Tomcat squadron, and this will be reflected for time immemorial by their squadron name – “Tomcatters”! After this emotional farewell, VFA-31 began its transition to the F/A-18E Super Hornet, and today the “Fighting 31” specializes in night fighting. This is summed up in their motto of “We get ours at night”.

Dragon Warbirds is offering a fine 1/72 scale die-cast model of an F/A-18E Super Hornet from VFA-31. The model is beautifully detailed, capturing the sleek and powerful stance of this potent U.S. military aircraft. The model bears all the appropriate markings of this unit including the “AJ” tail code, and a cartoon impression of Felix the Cat running with a spherical bomb in his paws. This item is a colorful and attractive offering that would enhance any model aircraft collection. VFA-31 has staked its place in history by being the last Tomcat squadron, but this model allows collectors to commemorate this new phase in their history as they operate the larger F/A-18E.

Join your carrier here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRW50136

KG_Jag

07-20-2009, 01:35 AM

We start this week for a selection that has special appeal for those on a tight budget in these rosy economic times. From Gohobbies for just $7.27, it is a Dragon 1:72 scale German captured T-34/76 Mod '41.

http://www.discounttrainsonline.com/graphics/DML/L60152.jpg

Eastern front turn around is here:

http://www.gohobbies.com/itemDML-60152.html

Our second selection is also from Dragon, is German World War II, but in the 1:35 scale. From Pete's for $49.95, it is the Tiger I ""#142"" (Initial Production), Sd. Kfz. 181, s.Pz.Abt.501, Tunisia 1942.

DRR61001 Dragon$79.99 $49.95 http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/DRR61001.JPG CLOSEOUT 1/35 Tiger I ""#142"" (Initial Production), Sd. Kfz. 181, s.Pz.Abt.501, Tunisia 1942 Special Price: $49.95

Scale: 1/35 LIMITED STOCK Shipping 1st: $5.99 Additional Items: $0.00

Last stand in Africa can be found here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Specials&ItemNo=DRR61001#item

Our first pick from the skies is another good selection for those watching the budget. From Military Issue for $17.95, it is a Corgi 1:38 scale Bell UH-1E Iroquois HML-267, Camp Pendleton 1971.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0091721&size=large

Replicating the mainstay of the Vietnam War, this 1/48 scale die cast "Huey" features textured surface details, a full interior with glazed windows and opening doors, machine guns and rocket launchers, movable rotors, the authentic 1971 markings of the U.S. Marine Corps' HMLA-267 based at Camp Pendleton, and more. 11" rotorspan; arrives ready to display.

Her landing pad is here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=5895&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Military Helicopters

Our last selection is a 1:48 scale Armor P-40N Warhawk - "Joanne", 89th FS, 80th FG "Burma Banshee", Chittagong, India 1943 for $37.50.

http://www.3000toys.com/images/ARMOUR/B11E184.jpg

Fly here quickly to get one of the last couple in stock:

http://www.3000toys.com/catalog/item_detail.aspx?itemfind=ARMOURB11E184

KG_Jag

07-27-2009, 08:47 PM

Our armor picks this week feature two U.S. AFV's. The first is from the Vietnam War and is a Corgi 1:43 scale Vietnam Legends M113 ACAV 8th Infantry US Army, Vietnam--from Troy's Toys for $24.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=US51105&image=0

Check your draft notice and report here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=US51105

Our second pick is from the Korean War and also a tank that saw action at the end of World War II. From Corgi and Zion for $34.95, it is a
M4 Sherman Tiger Face Tank US Army (http://www.zionantiquemall.com/store/media/US51008.jpg) (1:50 Scale) Corgi Model No. US51008

http://www.zionantiquemall.com/store/media/US51008.jpg

You can find it as the second item on this page:

http://www.zionantiquemall.com/page112/

It's time to head to the airbase. Both of our selections are early war U.S. birds. Our first selection this week is from Skidmark's Corgi sale. It is a 1:72 scale B-17E FLYING FORTRESS, 1/72 SCALE, 19TH BG, MALANG, JAVA 1942 for $79.07.

http://www.corgi.co.uk/public/pictures/large/AA33312.jpg

She's looking for targets here:

http://www.skidmarksdiecast.com/catalog/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=96

The Flying Mule has jumped on board to close out the excellent 1:48 scale Carousel 1 war plane line. For just $39.99, you can grab the:

Carousel 1 AirCraft 6102
Curtiss P-40B Warhawk Diecast Model
USAAC 15th PG, 47th PS, "White 160", George Welch, Haleiwa Field, Pearl Harbor, HI, December 7th 1941
Limited Edition

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-6102_06_thm.jpg

Length: 8.25" Width: 9.25"

Considering that the adventures of Lieutenants George Welch and Ken Taylor and have been featured in two major movies (Tora! Tora! Tora! and Pearl Harbor), it is not surprising that there is more legend than truth surrounding their heroism at Pearl Harbor. Welch left Purdue after two years to enlist in the Army Air Corps as a pilot candidate in 1939. In February, 1941, he was assigned to the 47th fighter Squadron, 15th Pursuit Group at Wheeler Field, Oahu, in the Hawaiian Islands. On the night before December 7, 1941, Welch and his friend and squadron mate, Lt. Ken Taylor, partied almost until dawn, then retired to Bachelor Officers' Quarters at Wheeler Field. Their P-40's had been deployed to Haleiwa Field, a grass strip on the north coast of Oahu, for gunnery training. They were awakened by the sound of exploding bombs and gunfire announcing the Japanese attack. Dressing quickly, they raced outside to Taylor's car, pausing long enough to warn Haleiwa Field to have their planes gassed, armed, and warmed up. It was 16 miles from Wheeler to Haleiwa, but Taylor drove it in 15 minutes despite being strafed by a Japanese dive bomber as they left Wheeler field. Haleiwa was so small the Japanese had overlooked it in their planning, so Welch and Taylor were able to become airborne without being attacked. In less than a minute they encountered a group of Japanese dive bombers, and Welch shot one down before his P-40 was hit by enemy fire. Welch paused to determine that his plane was not seriously damaged, and returned to the fight in time to see Taylor flame another dive bomber. Welch then knocked down another Japanese dive bomber and saw a second victim of Taylor's crash on the beach. Low on fuel and out of ammunition, they headed to Wheeler Field. They stayed in the cockpit while their planes were serviced, then began to take off just as the Japanese second wave attacked. Taylor was wounded in the arm but ignored it. Welch shot down the Zero that strafed Taylor, then splashed another dive bomber into the sea. They landed to re- fuel and re-arm a second time. By their third takeoff, all the Japanese attackers had departed. Welch was officially credited with four victories and Taylor two. Both were awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross. Welch shot down another twelve Japanese aircraft flying P-39's and P-38's later in the war. Top USAAF General Hap Arnold called on Welch to resign his commission and become a test pilot for North American Aviation. He flew the XF-86 Sabre and was sent to Korea to teach USAF pilots how to use their Sabres more effectively against Russian MiG-15's. Welch was testing an early production F-100A Super Sabre to its limits when the plane went out of control and killed him, on October 12,1954. Limited Edition of 1800 pieces worldwide.

Carousel 1 AirCraft (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/aircraft/carousel-1-aircraft) The Carousel 1 "AirCraft" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft.

Carousel 1 "AirCraft" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted metal landing gear with rotating wheels and rubber tires.
Extremely detailed cockpit interiors with glazed instruments.
Detailed removable pilot figures.
Spinning metal propellers.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads. Curtiss P-40B Warhawk (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_FTR_P40) Designed to meet a USAAC requirement for a pursuit aircraft, the P40 was first flown on October 14th, 1940.

Scramble to protect the fleet here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CA-6102

KG_Jag

08-03-2009, 02:34 AM

Given the continuing state of the economy, we'll dedicate this week's picks (well three out of four anyway) to all of you on a tight budget. There will be cash for clunkers here!

Our first selection this week is a more modern version of David and Goliath. It's a Dragon 1:72 diorama of a German Elefant tank destroyer vs. a single Soviet anti-tank rifleman. Toy Train Heaven has it for $10.96.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/2083-60221S.jpg

Place your bets here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Millitary--Dragon%20Armor%20Diecast/61612955/DRAGON%20ARMOR%20DIECAST%20ELEFANT%20W%5E2Fred%20A rmy%20Rifleman%20%20%20%2C%20LIST%20PRICE%20%2415. 61

Our second armor selection is also in the 1:72 scale, but his time it is from Hobby Master. It is the Hobby Master 1/72 Ground Power Series, U.S. M26 Pershing Tank, B Co., 1st Tank Battalion, U.S. Marines, September 1950, Inchon, Korea, #HG3201. JT's has them for $9.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_m26pershing_3201.jpg

Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2007

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.
d new, unopened, mint in box condition; PLEASE NOTE that all product aging and boxes will have some shelf ware and may have minor imperfections like creases, folds, indentions or small tears in the boxes.
About the U.S. M26 Pershing Tank: The Heavy Tank M26 Pershing was an American heavy tank used during World War II and the Korean War. It was named after General John Pershing, who led the American Expeditionary Force in World War I.The M26 was a long time in development and only just reached combat status during World War II. A small number were brought across to Europe under the Zebra Technical Mission which included tanks, spares and military and civilian observers. They were assigned to General Omar Bradley's 12th Army Group and split between the 3rd and 9th Armored Division. They first saw combat in February 1945. The first Pershing loss was on 28 February to a Tiger I Tank, but it was recovered and put back into operation.Overall, the Pershing was considered roughly equal in performance to the German Panther Tank. In the first engagement with the M26 by the 3rd Armored Division, the M26 managed to catch two Tigers and one Panzer IV Tank by surprise from a flanking position. The M26 engaged the tanks from a range of about 1000 yards (1 km), and knocked them out. The M26 also saw service in the Korean War, although few armored units were sent because the initial response from battlefield commanders was "Korea isn't good tank country." The official US Army history states a number of M26s were pulled from pedestals at Fort Knox, where they had been World War II memorials. The Pershing and its derivative M46 were the only American tanks employed in Korea that were better armed than the North Korean T-34/85 (but not the only ones in the UN forces) and were credited with almost half of T-34s destroyed by the US Armored Corps. The M4A3E8, whose anti-tank performance was improved thanks to availability of the HVAP shells, is responsible for most of the remainder.

About This Particular U.S.M.C. M26 Pershing Tank Depicted by this Diecast Armor Model:

Marine Pershings were delivered in normal Army colors and share the standard olive drab finish. The M26’s were delivered in normal Army colors of standard olive drab carries Marine Tactical markings in yellow to indicate the company, platoon and individual vehicle. The TK<2> marking is the temporary division insignia with embarkation number painted on it preceded by TK, for 1st Tank Battalion. The U.S.M.C. painted over the Army registration number with the last digits – 118039 showing. White markings chalked on the front skirt probably are shipping markings. In Korea, Marine tanks did not regularly carry the US Army’s white star insignia, but they did at Inchon, Korea. The nine 1st Tank Battalion M26s landed at Green Beach as part of the first wave. The following day, 6 columns of T-34s were sent to repel the attack, but half were destroyed by aircraft and half by M26’s.

Korea is just a short way in this direction:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-pershing-tank-korea-hg3201-p-190.html

Our aircraft picks this week are both Corgi 1:72 collector sets and both are at excellent prices. The first represents a World War II Pacific dog fight between a birdcage Corsair and a Zero. From Diecast Direct at $29.97, it is a F4U CORSAIR & MITSUBISHI A6M2.

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/aircraft/corgi/aa99120.jpg

Check in here to see if the good guy wins:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=C99120

Our final selection features three Spits ( I, Vb & IX) flown by Ace Johnnie Johnson. From the Airplane Shop for $44.95.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg99189.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1522)

Get this 3 year old limited edition set here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1522

KG_Jag

08-10-2009, 04:09 AM

They're back! In this case four items--one soldier set and three AFV's are back at excellent prices from Military Issue.

We'll start with the 1:35 scale Oryon Battle of Rostov troops--two each of Germans and Soviets for only $14.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M500634&size=large

Replicating opposing forces in the 1943 Battle of Rostov, this set of four 1/35 scale, hand-painted, metal figures includes two German 5th SS Panzergrenadier Division "Wiking" infantrymen and two Russian 5th Guards Tank Army troops, each historically accurate right down to his authentic headgear, winter uniform, insignia and realistic weapon. Perfect as standalone display pieces or for adding to a diorama, these figures measure approximately 2" tall.

They wait your order on the Eastern Front here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=13618&product=Figures&category=land&subcategory=Units

Now on to three 1:35 scale Tamiya Masterwork AFV's.

The first is a Panzer IV Ausf.H for $78.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901525&size=large

Replicating the most common German tank of World War II, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an opening commander's hatch, an aluminum 7.5cm KwK 40 gun barrel, an anti-aircraft machine gun, turret and side armor, detailed metal tracks, authentic 2nd Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

The backbone of the German armor force awaits you here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10583&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor

Standing along side is a $79.95 Sturmgeschutz III Ausf. G.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M800791&size=large
Hand assembled and painted by expert modelers, this fully assembled 1/35 scale plastic and metal model of a World War II Sturmgeschütz III Ausf.G features an aluminum gun barrel with a muzzle brake, optional-position hatches, photo-etched engine grilles, a machine gun shield, removable side skirts, realistic metal tracks, plenty of tools and equipment, a camouflage scheme and authentic 237th Sturmgeschütz Brigade markings, and more. Measures approximately 7¾" long and arrives ready to display.

The assault guns assemble here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=12410&product=Kits&category=land&subcategory=Armor

Moving forward several decades of so, we feature a T-55A Desert Version for $69.95.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=M901523&size=large

Replicating a Polish-built T-55A employed by Iraqi forces in the First Gulf War, this professionally assembled and hand painted, 1/35 scale, plastic and metal model features textured surfaces, an aluminum gun barrel, an opening commander's hatch, an anti-aircraft heavy machine gun and a loader's hatch, rear-mounted fuel tanks, realistic metal tracks, a desert paint scheme, and more. 7¼" long; arrives ready to display.

The Desert Storm is brewing here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=11435&product=Models&category=land&subcategory=Armor

We'll stay in the modern era for our two aircraft selections. The first is a 1:72 scale Hobby Master A-4E Skyhawk 116 Sqn "The Flying Wing," Israeli Air Force, Yom Kippur War from Aviation Supermart for $29.95.

http://www.aviationsupermart.com/store/i/is.aspx?path=/shared/images/Hobby_Master/HA1407.jpg&lr=t&bw=250&w=250

A-4E Skyhawk 116 Sqn "The Flying Wing," Israeli Air Force, Yom Kippur War (1:72) by Hobby Master Airplanes

Item Number: HA1407

The A4D-5 later renamed the A-4E was a major upgrade for the Skyhawk. It received a new engine, stronger airframe, 2 additional weapons pylons for a total of 5, new avionics. The former A-4s were designed more for a nuclear capability but at this time this need was becoming less important. The designers went to work to make the A-4E capable of delivering conventional munitions. The addition of the pylons now made the A-4E capable of carrying a more varied weapons and fuel load up to a maximum of 8,200 pounds.

The 116 known as The Flying Wing Squadron first flew in 1956 using P-51Ds and Mystere IVA. In October 1956 during the Suez Crisis the Squadron received the unofficial nickname The Wire-cutters because they would fly their aircraft through Egyptian telegraph wires to disrupt communications. The 116 Squadron flew the A-4Es until upgrading to the N version in 1975. During the 1973 Yom Kippur War the A-4 suffered heavy losses making it necessary for the US to send 28 replacements. There were 499 A-4Es built and Israel acquired 94 of them.

A-4E Skyhawk Specifications
Engine: 1 x Pratt & Whitney J52-P-6A turbojet, 8500 lb. Thrust

Performance: Max speed 673 mph at sea level with a clean aircraft
636 mph at sea level with a Mk. 28 nuclear weapon

Cruising speed 498 mph

Stall speed 139 mph

Combat ceiling (clean aircraft) 40,500 feet

Runway to 20,000 ft 4 minutes.

Flight distances: 230 miles with a Mk. 28 weapon

680 miles with 2 X 300-gallon drop tanks

Ferry range 2130 miles

Dimensions: Wingspan 27 ft 6 in; Length 41 ft 4 in; Height 15 ft

Wing area 260 sq ft

Weights:
9,624 lb. Empty
18,300 lbs. Gross
22,950 lbs. Maximum
Armament: 2 x 20 mm cannon with 200 rounds/gun

Maximum weapons load 8,200 lbs. carried on 5 pylons - 2 pylons under each wing and 1 center-line pylon

Her hanger is here:

http://www.aviationsupermart.com/store/p/10814-A-4E-Skyhawk-116-Sqn-The-Flying-Wing-Israeli-Air-Force-Yom-Kippur-War-1-72-.html

Our final selection this week is a 1:72 scale Century Wings A-7E Corsair II, Va-25 Fist of The Fleet, Ne400, USS Ranger, 1975 from Diecast Direct for $44.77.

They won't let me show this bird, but you can check it out here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=CW589315

KG_Jag

08-17-2009, 04:08 PM

The heat wave continues in most of the U.S. Hopefully some of this week's pick will live up to that standard.

We begin with two North African World War II foes. The smaller of the two is a 1:72 scale Admiral Panzer III L from Military Issue for $9.99.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0095505&size=large

Replicating a Panzerkampfwagen III (Sd.Kfz.141) tank from the 1942 North Africa campaign, this 1/72 scale die cast model features a rotating turret and an elevating gun, separately applied plastic detail parts such as spare wheels and a tow cable, an authentic desert camouflage scheme with 15th Panzer Division markings, and more. Measures 3½" long and arrives ready to display in the included case.

Alert the Italians and rally here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=10298&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Non-Aviation

On the Commonwealth side of the line is a Corgi 1:50 scale Corgi Churchill MKIII El Alamein for $19.95 from The Airplane Shop.

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg60104.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=776)

Monty says to assemble here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=776

Eagle International 1:48 scale birds, especially their P-51 B's & C's are becoming increasingly difficult to find. This week we feature the P-51B Maj DAVID TEX HILL at the reasonable price of $75.39 from Toy Train Heaven.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/3014-10004S.jpg

She's in the hanger here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Eagle%20International/62381101/Eagle%20International%20P-51B%20Maj%20DAVID%20TEX%20HILL%201%3A48%20%2C%20LI ST%20PRICE%20%24107.39

For those with a tighter budget, we feature the 1:72 Corgi Maj. Gerald Johnson's, 49th FG P-47D-5 Thunderbolt. Historic Aviation has it for just $14.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091814&size=large

Wearing the command stripes of Maj. Gerald Johnson, the CO of the 9th Fighter Squadron, 49th Fighter Group, based in Gusap, New Guinea, in 1944, this 1/72 scale die cast model features engraved panel lines, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, a rotating propeller, a figure of Johnson, authentic markings, a display stand and more. 6¾" wingspan.

Last spotted at this jungle airstrip:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12229&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF Fighters

KG_Jag

08-24-2009, 02:27 AM

It appears that we are in the die cast doldrums of late summer. Nevertheless we have found some deals this week that may catch your interest.

For you fans of armor, we feature two Dragon 1:72 scale German World War II AFV's for under $10. The first is our "big ticket" item, coming in at $9.98 from Diecast Direct. It is a German Super Heavy Tank E-100 .

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR60138.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

1/72 German Super Heavy Tank E-100

1st E-100 diecast by Dragon Models

Features:
- Completely new-tooled
- True-scale model of the E-100
- Historically accurate three-tone camouflage
- Detailed and weathered track links
- Includes display case

About the E-100:
The E-100 project was commissioned in order to standardize parts. It was to be built in classes of varying sizes to replace existing vehicles. Different types were designated a number indicating their weight in tons: E 10, E 25, E 50 (Panther replacement), E 75 (Tiger replacement) and E 100.

Of these only the E-100 project was actually started. Construction of the E-100 prototype proceeded slowly at Henschel's test plant after Hitler's order to cease work on super-heavy tanks, and at the end of the war only the bare hull and suspension were completed.

Check out a photo of the model and order here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=DW60138

The Monkey Depot has our second selection, a Dragon Armor Jagdpanzer IV L/70, Late Production (60232), for $9.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0164-2T.jpg http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0164-3T.jpg http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0164-4T.jpg http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0164-5T.jpg http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/DA0164-2.jpg

Scale: 1/72
Size (Aprox): 4.5 in long from tip of barrel
Materials: Die cast metal with plastic parts
Description:
- 1st Jagdpanzer IV by Dragon - All newly tooled!
- Accurate Jagdpanzer IV L/70 Late Production mold with full details
- correct return rollers and the modified rear exhaust system for the late production model
- True-scale model
- Historically accurate and weathered 2-tone camouflage
- Detailed and weathered track links
- Includes display case
- Ready to display!

The Jagdpanzer, with its low profile and powerful 75mm gun, was an ideal German anti-tank weapon to be used against the Allies and Russians as they pressed in on the Fatherland. The Late Production model, because of the heavier gun, was nose heavy, and so the front wheels had steel rims rather than rubber, as the rubber wore out too rapidly. The Jagdpanzer IV was sometimes given the nickname of “Guderian€™s Chicken”, and muzzle brakes were quickly deleted because with the gun barrel being so close to the ground, great amounts of dust were kicked up upon firing.

1/72 Jagdpanzer IV L/70, Late Production, Germany 1945

1st Jagdpanzer IV by Dragon!
This model depicts a vehicle fighting in 1945 in the defense of Germany, with a very realistic two-tone camouflage paint scheme that is also authentically weathered. Also included are other appropriate late production features such as the correct return rollers and the modified rear exhaust system.

Main Features:
- 1st Jagdpanzer IV by Dragon - All newly tooled!
- Accurate Jagdpanzer IV L/70 Late Production mold with full details
- correct return rollers and the modified rear exhaust system for the late production model
- True-scale model
- Historically accurate and weathered 2-tone camouflage
- Detailed and weathered track links
- Includes display case
- Ready to display!

About the Jagdpanzer IV:
The Jagdpanzer, with its low profile and powerful 75mm gun, was an ideal German anti-tank weapon to be used against the Allies and Russians as they pressed in on the Fatherland. The Late Production model, because of the heavier gun, was nose heavy, and so the front wheels had steel rims rather than rubber, as the rubber wore out too rapidly. The Jagdpanzer IV was sometimes given the nickname of “Guderian’s Chicken”, and muzzle brakes were quickly deleted because with the gun barrel being so close to the ground, great amounts of dust were kicked up upon firing.

Grab one here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Dragon_Armor_Jagdpanzer_IV_L_70_Late_60232_p/da0164.htm

Both of our birds this week are from Corgi and flew during World War II.

The first is a good deal on a 1:72 scale HE-111TH-4 German Air Force Eastern Front from The Toy Headquarters for $58.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/CG33706.jpg

The Luftwaffe's KG26s reached the height of their effectiveness attacking convoys with a tactic called the golden comb.

This tactic involved HE111s carrying torpedoes and attacking in a low-altitude abreast formation at dusk when visibility was at it s poorest.

- 1/72 Scale
- Diecast Metal
- Aviation Archives
- Wingspan 12.4 inched

Get it here before the Soviets do:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_59_76_96&products_id=1120&osCsid=2d6306d5c28232413776dbb937db2602

Our final selection this week is a hard to find Corgi 1:32 scale P-51D. From International Toy Soldier Gallery for $79.99, including free U. S. domestic shipping, it's the "Jumping' Jacques".

http://i.ebayimg.com/10/!BYw,d4QBGk~$(KGrHgoH-CkEjlLl4BkTBKjQmvnM2Q~~_12.JPG

No longer in the Pacific, here hanger is here:

http://www.toysoldiersgallery.com/zencartstore/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=67_65&products_id=780

KG_Jag

08-31-2009, 02:22 AM

August is all but gone, so this week we'll post some back to school special selections.

The first is a continuation of our great budget buys in 1:72 armor. From Dragon and Great Models, we feature the $7.95 (DRR60105) Sd.Kfz. 182 Kingtiger Porsche Turret sPzAbt.503.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/dr60105.JPG

Ohrdruf Training Area, June 1944. Features include: zimmerit coating, newly tooled turret, upper hull and lower hull, realistically painted tracks, authentic weathering, anti-aircraft MG included and clear display case.

This big cat lurks here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR60105

Our second selection includes another big German cat, but this one is a Corgi Skirmish 1:50 winter cameoed Panther with accompanying soldiers for $29.98 from Motormint.

http://www.motormint.com/ProductImages/fullsize07/CC60213.jpg

Model Features
• 1:50 Scale
• CORGI Limited Edition of 2510
• 3 Coldcast German Infantry Figures
• Precision Die-cast Panther Tank with Moveable Treads and Rotating Turret

Her snow park is here:

http://www.motormint.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2330

We also have some great "school supplies" for you aircraft fans. The first is a big boy--1:18 Admiral Toys German Luftwaffe CL-13 from The Toy Headquarters for just $19.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/German_CL-13_6.jpg

German Luftwaffe CL-13 (F-86E)

Aircraft Features
1/18 Scale plastic display model
Movable Landing Gear
Movable Landing Gear Doors
Movable Flaps
Movable Flight Controls
Movable Leading Edge Slats
Movable Gun Ammunition Doors
Movable Canopy
Removable Seat Belt for pilot
Comes with one Pilot Action Figure
Comes with two drop tanks that can be displayed on or off the aircraft
Tampo Printed Markings!!!!
Length 25 1/2 inches
Wingspan 25 1/4 inches
Hight 10 1/4 inches
Limited Release

Jet your way on this flight plan:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_59_107&products_id=2192&osCsid=177c24b2413c879d03fe8e4fb4ca34c6

Our final selections offer you a choice, which can include both if you prefer. They are 1:72 Dragon variations on the F-15 Eagle. On Mark has them priced at only $16.16 a piece.

The first of the two is a (50145) F-15D Eagle--60th TFS, 33rd RFW "Fighting Crows" (Eglin AFB).


http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50145/50145_small.jpg (http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50145/50145.jpg)

The second option is a (50106) F-15C Eagle 18th Wing (Kadena AFB, Okinawa 1993). The 18th Wing is Kadena host unit. It is the oldest wing on continuous active duty and is the only active wing whose fighters have never served in the continental United States. A variety of units form one of the world's largest and most complex airbases. The wing is responsible for approximately 20,000 Americans stationed at Kadena AB.

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50106/50106_small.jpg (http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/5/50106/50106.jpg)

You can find both of them two rows from the bottom of this page on the right hand side here:

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/dragon/dragon_aircraft.php

KG_Jag

09-07-2009, 01:26 AM

I hope that everyone--at least those in the States--is enjoying his Labor Day weekend. Our labor this week has been made a bit easier by a few (albeit fewer than usual) Labor Day sales.

Continuing our quest to included affordable armor in these tough economic times. We feature another under $10 selection. This one is a Dragon 1:72 scale Jagdpanzer IV Western Front 1944 for $9.95 from Great Models.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Mrc/MRC36124.JPG

Ignore the comment about landing gear when you click here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=MRC36124

Our next selection is for those of you with much deeper pockets and some significant display space to spare. From The Flying Mule's Labor Day sale, it is the 1:16 scale Unimax Forces of Valor 85007 M4 Sherman Tank Diecast Model US Army, Normandy, France, D-Day June 6th 1944. The asking price is $299.99, but with the Mule's coupon it can be had for $239.99 with shipping included.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-85007_06_thm.jpg

Length: 14.25" Width: 6.75"

The U.S. M4 Sherman was the most produced battle tank in WWII. Many variants were designed and manufactured to increase their effectiveness against German Panzer divisions. The M4A1 was quick, highly maneuverable, simple to maintain and was equipped with a 75MM gun. This large-scale model of the Sherman is bristling with features that make it highly collectible. The model itself is a real heavy-weight and includes details impossible to achieve in a smaller scale. The model also includes detailed figures of crew members. Arrives in an large, attractive package complete with history book and limited edition certificate.

Unimax Forces of Valor (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/armor/unimax-forces-of-valor)

The Unimax "Forces of Valor" range presents affordable, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles.

Unimax "Forces of Valor" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
[See more Unimax Forces of Valor products (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/armor/unimax-forces-of-valor)]

M4 Sherman Tank (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_TNK_M004)

The pilot model of the M4 was completed in September 1941, and the Sherman became the most widely produced tank of the war. The M4 Sherman defeated heavier tanks with superior numbers, and by using outflanking tactics to strike thinner enemy flank armor. Shermans also achieved success with progressively upgunned models and by working with tank destroyers. The Sherman tank--named by the British--was fast, maneuverable, mechanically reliable, easy to manufacture, and effective in its infantry support role. It served with the US Army and Marines during World War II, and the US transferred large numbers to the United Kingdom and allied forces of many countries.

Find her on the hunt here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/UM-85007

Also on sale at the Mule--and also with free shipping--is our first aircraft selection, the 1:48 scale Marushin Diecast Kits S-001 Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero-Sen/Zeke Diecast Kit--IJNAS for $58.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MA-S-001_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MA-S-001_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MA-S-001_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/MA-S-001_06_thm.jpg

Length: 7.5" Width: 9"

The Mitsubishi A6M Zero was a lightweight fighter aircraft operated by the Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service (IJNAS) from 1940 to 1945. The origin of its official designation was that "A" signified a fighter and "6" for the sixth model built by Mitsubishi ("M"). The A6M was usually referred to by the Allies as the "Zero"—a name that was frequently misapplied to other Japanese fighters, such as the Nakajima Ki-43—as well as other code names and nicknames, including "Zeke", "Hamp" and "Hap". Its history mirrored that of the Empire of Japan in World War II. When it was introduced, the Zero was the best carrier-based fighter in the world and it was greatly feared by Allied pilots. The IJNAS also frequently used the type as a land-based fighter. A combination of excellent maneuverability and very long range made it one of the finest fighters of its era. In early combat operations, the Zero gained a legendary reputation, outclassing its contemporaries. Later, design weaknesses and the increasing scarcity of more powerful aircraft engines meant that the Zero became less effective against newer fighters. By 1942, due to the evolution of new tactics and techniques, Allied pilots were able to engage the Zero on more equal terms. By 1943, American and British manufacturers were producing fighters with greater firepower, armor, and speed, and approaching the Zero's maneuverability. The Mitsubishi A6M was outdated by 1944, but remained in production. During the final years of the War in the Pacific, the Zero was utilized in kamikaze operations.

The Marushin range presents detailed, pre-painted diecast aircraft kits of military aircraft in 1:48 scale. The models require some basic assembly using a screwdriver and some glue. Most of the components are designed to "press-fit" together, but the application of a small amount of superglue during assembly results in a much more robust finished model. Each model includes an illustrated step-by-step instruction sheet with Japanese text. Although no English translation is available, the illustrations are quite simple to follow. Marushin diecast airplane kits feature:

Pre-painted components in kit form with illustrated instructions.
Heavy diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads.
Accurately detailed underside.
Pilot figures and display stand sold separately.
Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero-Sen/Zeke (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_FTR_A6M)
First flown in April, 1939, the A6M Zero-Sen was the Allies’ main opponent in the Pacific and the most famous symbol of Japanese air power during World War II. This carrier-based fighter, designed with a low-monoplane wing and armed with a formidable array of two 20mm cannons and two 7.7mm machine guns, proved capable of handling any of the Allies’ aircraft. It wasn’t until the Allies studied a captured Zero that they were able to identify and exploit weaknesses such as minimal pilot and fuel tank protection. Zeros became infamous for Kamikaze attacks, in which pilots would intentionally crash explosion-laden aircraft into Allied ships.

Check your six here:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/MA-S-001

Our final selection this week is Corgi 1:72 scale British Aerospace Hawk T.1A for $24.00 from Squadron.

http://www.squadron.com/images/large/CG36002.jpg

Description: British Aerospace Hawk T.1A Flying Training School
Detailed ready-to display die-cast model with optional position landing gear and display stand. Finished in red-white-blue scheme, No.4 Flying Training School RAF, Anglesey, 1995.

Your training starts here:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=CG36002

KG_Jag

09-14-2009, 03:46 AM

If you haven't seen any football this weekend, you have only yourself to blame--unless of course you don't live in the U.S. and don't have access to our TV channels. All of my teams--college and pro--won, so I'm in a pretty good mood. if you are not, hopefully this week's picks will help to move you in that direction.

We continue to feature affordable AFV's again this week. From Hobby Master And JT's for just $9.99 we select the 1:72 scale Hobby Master Russian KV-1 Tank Leningrad 1941 (HG3003).

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_kv1_3003.jpg

Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2007

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.

Brand new, unopened, mint in box condition; PLEASE NOTE that all product packaging and boxes will have some shelf ware and may have minor imperfections like creases, folds, indentions or small tears in the boxes.

About the Russian Kliment Voroshilov (KV Series) Tanks:

The Kliment Voroshilov (KV) tanks were a series of Soviet heavy tanks, named after the Soviet defense commissar and politician Kliment Voroshilov. At the time of the German invasion of the Soviet Union in World War II, these were amongst the large number of Soviet tanks that were superior to German tanks.

When the Soviets entered the Winter War, the SMK, KV and a third design, the T-100, were sent to be tested in combat conditions. The heavy armor of the KV proved highly resilient to Finnish anti-tank weapons, making it more effective than the other designs. It was quickly put into production, both as the original 76-mm-armed KV-1 Heavy Tank and the 152 mm howitzer-mounting assault gun, the KV-2 Heavy Artillery Tank.

The 45-ton KV outweighed most other tanks of the era, being about twice as heavy as the heaviest contemporary German tanks. The KV's strengths included armor that was impenetrable by any tank-mounted weapon then in service except at pointblank range, good firepower, and good traction on soft ground. Along with these strengths, its flaws were quite serious. It was very slow and difficult to steer. The transmission was unreliable. The ergonomics were poor, with limited visibility and no turret basket. Its weight tended to strain smaller bridges. As improvements were introduced, no thought was put into upgrading the engine, making it slower with more armor added.

Note: The Soviets did not recognize production models of KV-1 during the war, therefore designations like model 1939 (or M1939, Russian: Obr. 1939) were introduced later in military publications. These designations however are not strict and describe leading changes, while other changes might be adapted earlier or later in specific production batches. Designations like KV-1A were applied by the Germans during the war.

KV-2 (334) – A heavy assault tank with the M-10 152 mm howitzer, the KV-2 was produced at the same time as the KV-1. Due to the size of its heavy turret and gun, the KV-2 was slower and had a much higher profile than the KV-1. The extra weight also increased the breakdown rate of the vehicle and production was soon halted. The original KV-2 was built on the chassis of the KV-1, while the improved KV-2B was built on that of the KV-1 M1940.

The early war East Front monster was last seen here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-russian-tank-leningrad-1941-hg3003-p-126.html

Our second AFV is from the sale page at The Flying Mule. It is a Unimax Forces of Valor 1:32 scale Porsche Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand Diecast Model German Army, Italy, 1944 for $35.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80052_06_thm.jpg
Unimax Forces of Valor 80052
Porsche Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand Diecast Model
German Army, Italy, 1944

Length: 8" Width: 4.25"

The Panzerjäger Tiger (P) Elefant (German "elephant"; model number Sd.Kfz. 184) was a Panzerjäger (tank hunter) of the German Wehrmacht in World War II. They were originally built under the name Ferdinand, after their designer, Ferdinand Porsche.

Unimax Forces of Valor (http://www.flyingmule.com/range/diecast-model/armor/unimax-forces-of-valor)

The Unimax "Forces of Valor" range presents affordable, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles.

Unimax "Forces of Valor" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Porsche Sd.Kfz.184 Ferdinand Presented (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_TNK_SDKFZ184) to Hitler on March 19th, 1943, the German Panzerjäger or Elefant was originally built under the name Ferdinand, after its designer Ferdinand Porsche. A six man crew operated the 88mm gun mounted on this 70 ton tank. Engines were located in the middle of the hull, which allowed space for the armament at the rear. The Ferdinand's armor plate was as thick as 8 in. on the front—this helped it flatten obstacles and clear the way for lighter vehicles. The Ferdinand’s extreme firepower/protection ratio gave it an enormous advantage; in “kills per loss,” it might have been the most successful “tank destroyer” of the war.

It can be found hunting our first pick in this ambush position:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/UM-80052

Going to the air, we first feature the Corgi 1:72 scale GLOSTER SEA GLADIATOR Mk.I from Circle C Hobby for $23.52.

http://circlechobby.com/image/cor36202.jpg

She's on patrol here:

http://circlechobby.com/prodA/COR36202.HTM

Our final selection this week takes us into the modern era with a 1:72 Witty SU-27 RUSSIAN TEST PILOTS. Toy Train Heaven's usual price is a low $14.79, but if you email or call them by Monday, you can get it for $12.74.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/9025-720146S.jpg

The test strip is here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Witty%20Diecast/63531740/Witty%20Diecast%20Airplanes%20SU-27%20RUSSIAN%20TEST%20PILOTS%201%3A72%2C%20LIST%20 PRICE%20%2421.07

KG_Jag

09-22-2009, 01:19 AM

Travel and a bug have caused us to be just a bit late this week, but we hope that at least one of the selections this week will be worth the short wait.

First we start with another AFV for less than $10.00. From Great Models for $8.80, it's a 1:72 scale DRR60308 Sherman M4A4 Mk.V 'Tulip'.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR60308.JPG

Open window display, fully assembled, includes protective display case. Rockets and launcher rails on the turret sides. Painted in bronze green.

Link to this creative us of the Sherman tank:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR60308

Next we have a very good deal on a Corgi Skirmish 1:50 scaleSdkfz7/1 & Anti-Aircraft Gun & 3 German Infantry Figures - German Army. Diecast Direct has it for $17.98, but there is only one left.

http://www.corgi-usa.com/product_pix/military/CC60011_Sdkfz7_1.jpg

Grab the last one here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=C60011

For our fans of the air, we feature a 1:72 Gemini Aces clipped wing Spit that Pete's will sell you for $19.99.

GA1002 Gemini Jets $32.95 $19.99 http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/GA1002.JPG
RAF MK.IX SPITFIRE “BATTLE OF BRITAIN”, Limited To 2000 Units Worldwide. Note: Diorama Shown Is Not Included, For Display Purposes Only.

She's on patrol for Jerry here:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=GeminiJets&ItemNo=GA1002#item

We go to Corgi and The Airplane Shop for our final selection this week. Offered at $16.95, it is:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/cataloglarge/cg99415.jpg (http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1747)
Corgi Avenger FAA Squadron HMS Nabob 1/72

She's awaiting landing instructions from your carrier and is circling here:

http://www.airplaneshop.com/productdetail.html?tablename=CORGI&id=1747

KG_Jag

09-28-2009, 01:55 AM

We'll start this week with our most affordable offering--and a good deal at that price. From Dragon and Great Models for $14.00, it's a 1:72 scale DRR60368 StuG III featuring Bodo Spranzs marking. This is a DX08 Exclusive--German StuG Ace Sturmgeschutz Abteilung 237 Eastern Front.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/Dmldragon/DRR60368.JPG

Report for duty here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=DRR60368

Our second pick is a 1:32 scale Forces of Valor U.S. M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System from Monkey Depot for $29.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/FV0066-2.jpg

See the rockets red glare here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Forces_of_Valor_US_M270_MLRS_p/fv0066.htm

Our first air pick is a 1:72 Corgi classic brought to you by notatoy for $29.95. It's an:

Aviation Archive Series – Jet FIGHTER Power

LIMITED EDITION of 8,500 pcs.
AA32403 - HAWKER SIDDELEY AV-8A Harrier

U.S. Marine Corps, VMA-231 ‘Aces’

Die Cast Scale - 1/72
RELEASED IN 2001

Superbly detailed 1:72 Scale model replica aircraft - each packaged with a display stand and featuring: rubber tires, interchangeable undercarriage, removable engine covers* and clear cockpit canopies with finely sculpted pilots.

Attractive packaging, numbered COA, model comes with stand and two sets of landing gears.

The Harrier has become famous as the world’s first vertical take-off and landing strike fighter, ever since the prototype flew in 1960. The United States placed an additional order for 12 Harriers. The plane proved so successful that the order was increased to 110, including eight two-seaters.

The subject of this model was one of the first USMC Harriers delivered.
Presented in the livery of the firs Marine Corps Harrier Squadron.

*Doesn’t apply for all models.

I can't show you picture, but you can check it out here:

http://www.notatoy.com/product_info.php/cPath/320_45/products_id/1357

Our final selection is another Corgi, but in the 1:144 scale. From Showcase Toys for $29.95, it's a C-47 Dakota Diecast Model, RAF, D-Day - Corgi AA30003.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2071_13999007

Corgi Aviation Archive Diecast Model

Douglas C-47 'Dakota' - RAF, World War II, D-Day

1:144 scale. Wingspan: 8" (20.3 cm). Includes display stand

The C-47 was built by the Douglas Aircraft Company. It was a military adaptation of the DC-3. The C-47 was essentially a freight carrier with a reinforced metal floor, a large door for loading and reinforced landing gear. In the supply role, it carried up to 6000 lb (2700 Kg) of equipment. As a paratroop aircraft in WWII it was equipped with folding benches for 28 fully armed troops.

The Corgi Aviation Archive features a wide selection of high quality, ready-made, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted with meticulous attention to detail, using specifications of the original aircraft. Corgi models are built with diecast metal and some plastic components.

The models in the Corgi Aviation Archive series feature: realistic panel lines, a detailed cockpit with pilot figure, historically accurate markings and optional extended or retracted landing gear.

Prepare to hit the silk here:

http://www.showcasetoys.com/corgi-aa30003-c-47-dakota.html

KG_Jag

10-04-2009, 12:43 AM

Our first two picks for this October are AFV's that won't break the bank as the unemployment head toward 10%. The first is a 1:72 scale Hobby Master KV-2 from JT's for just $9.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_kv2_3004.jpg

Hobby Master 1/72 Ground Power Series, Russian KV-2 Tank, Kalinin Front, Russia 1942 (Winter Paint Scheme), #HG3004. LIMITED EDITION; Only 1,500 Pieces Worldwide.
• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2007

• Scale: 1:72 Scale
• Limited Edition: Only 1,500 Pieces Worldwide

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.

The monster can be found lurking here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-russian-tank-hg3004-p-188.html

Next up is a 1:43, Lancia Lince Italy 1944, from EDG DieCast from The Toy Headquarters for $13.99.

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/images/IXE01621_166_EDG_Lancia.jpg

Fully assembled and ready to display die-cast model. Italian-built armored/scout car in tan/brown/green camouflage, includes plastic display case. Length about 4 inches.

She's on patrol here:

http://www.jjshobby.com/Shoppingcart/product_info.php?cPath=68_58_134&products_id=2715&osCsid=177c24b2413c879d03fe8e4fb4ca34c6

We continue to say good-bye to those great 1:48 scale Carousel 1 birds. But as we do so, we might as well save some money. Our third selection this week is a Messerschmitt 109E 1/48 Die Cast Model--JG 26, Adolf Galland, Battle of Britain. Historic Aviation has it for $34.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0093300&size=large

Replicating the Bf 109E-4 "Emil" flown by 103-victory ace Adolf Galland during the Battle of Britain in 1940, this limited edition, 1/48 scale die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with glazed instruments and a removable figure of Galland, optional-position landing gear, a rotating propeller, authentic III./JG 26 group commander markings and Mickey Mouse fuselage art, and more. 9¼" wingspan; arrives ready to display on the included decorative base.

Lite your cigar here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=13140&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Luftwaffe Aircraft

Last this week is a 1:48 scale F-117 Nighthawk USAF from the Franklin Mint by way of Squadron for $57.99.

http://www.squadron.com/images/large/FM11B675.jpg

F-117 Nighthawk USAF, "Patriotic Fighter" Limited Edition

Designed at Lockheed's "Skunkworks" to meet a DARPA requirement for a stealth warplane, the F117 was first flown on June 18th, 1981. Length: 16.5", Width: 10.75"

Not as hard to find as most of her type, she's here:

http://www.squadron.com/ItemDetails.asp?item=FM11B675

KG_Jag

10-11-2009, 11:54 PM

For our armor fans this week we have two Dragon 1:72 scale Tigers for less than $10.00. The first is a "White A" (Mid Production), s.Pz.Abt.507 "Blacksmith", Ukraine 1944 from On Mark for $9.68.

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/images/6/60063/60063.jpg

She reports for duty in the second row here:

http://onmarkint.netfirms.com/onmarkint.com/static/dragon/dragon_mil_veh.php

Pete's is running a little Dragon armor sale and this Sd.Kfz. 181 Tiger-I Mid Production, sPzAbt 509, 1944 can be had for $9.71 with the 25% discount code.

http://www.petescollectibles.com/images/DRR60019.JPG

Here's where she can be found:

http://www.petescollectibles.com/display.asp?cat=Dragon&ItemNo=DRR60019#item

For those who crave aircraft we have two good buys in different scales from BBI by way of Historical Aviation.

The first is a 1:32 scale F4F-4 Wildcat "White 77," Lt. James E. Swett, VMF-221 for $24.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0099116&size=large

Replicating "White 77," the F4F-4 Wildcat flown by 15½-victory ace Lt. James E. Swett (who, sadly, passed away on January 18, 2009) of VMF-221, the "Fighting Falcons," when he shot down seven Japanese Aichi D3A dive bombers during his first combat mission on April 7, 1943, over Tulagi harbor - an action for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor - this amazingly detailed, 1/32 scale, plastic model features engraved panel lines and simulated rivets, a fully outfitted cockpit with an opening canopy and a figure of Swett, wing-mounted machine guns, removable fuel tanks, a rotating propeller, retractable landing gear, authentic markings (including the caveman tail art that Swett was asked to remove after only a few days) and realistic weathering, and more. 14 ¼" wingspan.

She' s performing the Thach Weave here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=15027&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=U.S. Naval Fighters

This is the next fighter that the U.S. Navy flew. It's the $29.95 1:18 scale Gadget, the F6F Hellcat flown by 19-victory ace Lt. Alexander Vraciu - the U.S. Navy's #4 all-time ace - with VF-6 in the Pacific Theater of World War II, this wonderfully detailed, 1/18 scale, plastic model of the "Zero killer" features engraved panel lines, a fully outfitted cockpit with a sliding canopy, folding wings with movable control surfaces, a rotating propeller, retractable landing gear, removable armament and a removable fuel tank, an articulated figure of Vraciu, authentic markings, and more. 28 ½" wingspan.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0099111&size=large

She's doing her part in achieving an 18:1 kill ratio here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=13139&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=U.S. Naval Fighters

KG_Jag

10-19-2009, 12:55 AM

Our first selection this week is from Tamiya by way of HobbyLink Japan. In the 1:35 scale and for $31.48 (more or less), it's the JGSDF Light Armored Vehicle--Finished Model. The Vehicle is mounted on a display plate and finished in the markings of the JGSDF as they deployed to Iraq in early 2004. Die-cast lower chassis part adds weight and "feel" to what would otherwise be a very light model.

They won't let me show it to you, but you can view it here:

http://www.hlj.com/product/TAM21025

Our second AFV pick is the US Marine Corp M3 Half-Track - Bouganville 1943 in 1:50 scale for $22.99 from Corgi by way of Airplanes and More.

http://airplanesandmore.com/prodimages/largeHC60409%20M3%20Halftrack%20USMC.jpg

This early-model M3 Half-Track with .30-caliber water-cooled machine gun was one of the first used by the Marines in the Pacific. The M3 did not lend itself well to jungle warfare or beach landings, so was not widely used. Corgi Collection #HC60409

If you don't live on a tropical beach, get yours here:

http://airplanesandmore.com/proddetail.php?prod=HC60409

Our first flying pick is a 1:72 offering from Hobby Master by way of Aikens for $32.95. It's the USAF 917TH TFW "PEANUT" A-10A THUNDERBOLT.

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/hobby%20master/HA1303-A10-Peanut-Low.jpg

This 1/72 scale die cast model of the Thunderbolt II - affectionately known as the Warthog - sets a new standard in attention to detail. From the intricate cockpit with its opening canopy to the finely replicated turbofan blades, optional-position landing gear, and experimental three-tone "Peanut" paint scheme developed for possible use in 1990's Operation Desert Storm, top-of-the-line manufacturer Hobby Master has outdone itself. You even get enough removable armament - Sidewinder missiles, laser-guided bombs, mine dispensing munitions and much more - to take on a small air force! So don't miss this one - order yours today. 9½" wingspan; includes a display stand.

If your not allergic, get one here:

http://www.aikensairplanes.com/hobby%20master/hm-ha1303.htm

Our last pick is a war ender from Corgi and Spirit of '76. With the 30% discount announced on the home page, you can grab the 1:144 scale Boeing B-29 Super Fortress Enola Gay for just $18.89.

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/aircraft/corgi/AA31803.jpg

She can be found at the top of this page:

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/aircraft/corgi/index.htm

KG_Jag

10-26-2009, 01:26 AM

This week we draw from the sales of two vendors currently offering some excellent deals on their sales, even after being picked over a bit by earlier bird deal hunters.

First from the sale at The Flying Mule, we feature an early Word War II heavy tank than was far to heavy to fly. The Mule has the Forces of Valor 1:32 scale Soviet KV-1 for $35.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/UM-80056_01_lrg.jpg

Unimax Forces of Valor 80056, KV-1 Heavy Tank Diecast Model
Russian Army, Eastern Front

1:32 Scale Length: 8.25"; Width: 4.25"

The Kliment Voroshilov (KV) tanks were a series of Soviet heavy tanks, named after the Soviet defense commissar and politician Kliment Voroshilov. The KV series were known for their extremely heavy armour protection, which was capable of resisting all German anti-tank weapons up to 75 mm and 88 mm calibre, both of which were comparatively rare at the time of the initial German invasion of the Soviet Union in World War II. Prior to the invasion, about 500 of the over 22,000 tanks in Soviet service at the time were of the KV-1 type.

The Unimax "Forces of Valor" range presents affordable, ready-made diecast models of military vehicles. Unimax "Forces of Valor" diecast vehicles feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Rotating turret, elevating cannon and accurate hull.
Painted, fitted, non-moving tracks on detailed non-rotating wheels.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Load your logs on this one:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/UM-80056

The second featured item from the Mule's sale is the Corgi 1:72 scale Junkers Ju 87R Stuka Diecast Model, Luftwaffe 6./StG 2, Tmimi, Libya, July 1941--Limited Edition--Corgi Aviation Archive Collector Series AA32502 for $26.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CG-AA32502_06_lrg.jpg

1:72 Scale Length: 6.25" Width: 7.5"

Although often taking prominence, camouflage was of secondary importance when this striking and unique paint job was undertaken. Resulting in one of the most memorable desert Stuka liveries the snake motif was known to decorate at least two different aircraft, which may or may not have been flown by the same pilot, Hubert Polz. Flying the aircraft here for 6.Staffel of 2 Stukageschwader in 1941, Polz's individualism stood him in good steed as he went on to win the Knight's Cross and Oakleaves on the Eastern Front. Polz finished the was as Kommandeur of 1./sg 151.

Junkers Ju 87R Stuka (http://www.flyingmule.com/powersearch/?Search=CAT_TYP_PRP_BMR_JU87)
Designed as a close support aircraft, the Ju 87 was first flown in 1935. Armed with twin 37mm cannons, the Ju 87 series was crewed by a pilot and a rear-gunner. An elongated U-shaped crutch located under the fuselage was designed to swing the bomb out of the way of the propeller. The design included several innovative features such as automatic dive brakes under both wings that ensured recovery from an attack dive even if the pilot blacked out during the 6 g pullout. The shape of the inverted gull wings improved pilot-to-ground visibility and also provided shorter undercarriage height.

Corgi's 1:72 scale Stukas faithfully replicate the gull-wing or “cranked” wing pattern, which with the spatted main gear was one of the most notable and unusual features of this aircraft. Delicately assembled dive-brakes can be seen be seen beneath each wing. A 250kg bomb is mounted to the U-shaped crutch below the fuselage. The top engine cover can be removed to reveal the inverted Junkers Jumo 211D engine with the correct main engine support frames. Additional features include all-metal braced elevators, engine radiator detail, slotted ailerons and flaps and a rearward-facing machine gunner manning the M15 machine gun. © Copyright 2003-2009 The Flying Mule, Inc.

The Corgi "Aviation Archive" presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military and civilian aircraft. The vast Aviation Archive range has become the standard by which all other diecast airplane ranges are judged. Each Corgi model is based on a specific aircraft from an important historical or modern era of flight, and has been authentically detailed from original documents and archival library material. Famous airplanes and aviators from both military and commercial airline aviation are all honored.

Corgi "Aviation Archive" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted landing gear with rotating wheels.
Poseable presentation stand to display the aircraft "in flight".
Many limited editions with numbered certificate of authenticity.
Detailed pilot and crew member figures.
Authentic detachable ordnance loads complete with placards.
Selected interchangeable features such as airbrakes, opened canopies and access panels.
Selected moving parts such as gun turrets, control surfaces and swing-wings.
Move in you high boots to this snake den:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CG-AA32502

JT's still has some excellent deals on some Hobby Master pieces and we feature two of them this week.

For you fans of 1:72 scale modern armor, we cast our spotlight on the Hobby Master T-55 Tank Iraqi Army HG3303, which can be snapped up for just $9.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_t55one_3303.jpg

Hobby Master 1/72 Ground Power Series, T-55A Medium Tank, 5th Mechanized Division, 26th Armoured Brigade, Iraqi Ground Forces, “The Gulf War”, #HG3303.• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2008

• Scale: 1:72 Scale

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Diecast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Appliqued Turret Armor, It Has A Realistic Tracks & Wheels, and Most Importantly To Collectors, A Very Well Authentically Detailed Body, The Body Professionally Painted In Accurate Colors, and includes Weathering, Cables, Tools And Insignia and The Turret Can Turn and The Main Gun Can Elevate.

• Type of Display Base: Diecast Model Mounted to a Black Display Base with Clear Acrylic Cover.
About the Russian T-55 Tank:

The T-54 and T-55 tank series was the Soviet Union's front-line non-amphibious main battle tank from 1947 until 1962. It remains in service throughout the world to this day, particularly in the armies of former client states of the Soviet Union. Over 95,000 tanks were produced, making it the most-produced tank series in history.

The T-55 was also significantly superior to the IS-2 Heavy Tank in all respects, included the rate of fire of the gun (at least four compared to less than three rounds per minute). Despite somewhat thinner frontal turret armor (200 mm rather than 250 mm), it also compared favorably with the IS-3, thanks to its improved antitank gun and better mobility. Heavy tanks soon fell from favor, with only 350 IS-3s produced and future Soviet heavy tank designs remaining prototypes. The old model of highly mobile medium tanks and heavily armored heavy tanks was replaced with a new paradigm: the "main battle tank". Parallel developments in the West would produce similar results.

Tens of thousands of T-55 tanks were manufactured in the Soviet Union between 1958 and 1979. The tank was also produced in Poland, Czechoslovakia, and in China (as the Type 59, a copy of the T-54A), and Romania. In China, it was further developed as the Type 69, which is still manufactured for export today, and the Type 79, a version equipped with a 105 mm main gun.

A wide array of upgrades in different price ranges are provided by many manufacturers in different countries, intended to bring the T-54/55 up to the capabilities of newer tanks such as T-72s, at a lower cost. Upgrades include new engines, explosive reactive armor, new main armament such as 120 mm or 125 mm guns, active protection systems, and fire control systems with range-finders or thermal sights. These improvements make it a potent main battle tank (MBT) for the low-end budget, even to this day.

About the T-55A Tank, the Iraqi Army and The Gulf War:

On August 2, 1990 as part of the 4th largest military in the world, the Iraqi 5th Mechanized Division with approximately 200 T-55As invaded Kuwait. On January 29, 1991 as part of a larger group, the 5th MD attacked Coalition Forces and captured the Saudi town of Al-Khafji. After 2 days, the Iraqi forces were driven back to Kuwait and on February 26, 1991 began a retreat to Iraq. When it was over, Iraq’s forces were significantly reduced from 70 army divisions to 23 with the loss of over 400 aircraft.

Make the Iraqis an offer here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-tank-iraqi-army-hg3303-scale-p-342.html

Our last item this week is the 1:72 scale Hobby Master Junkers Ju-87 D3 Stuka Captured LTD HA0135 for just $14.99.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/hobbymaster_ju87stuka_0135.jpg

Hobby Master 1/72 Air Power Series (Propeller Powered Junkers Ju-87 D3, Sidi Haneish LG13, Nov. 1942, "Captured Stuka", #HA0135. LIMITED EDITION WITH ONLY 1,200 PIECES WORLDWIDE.• Type of Model: Pre-Assembled Diecast Model

• Year of Release: 2007

• Scale: 1:72 Scale
• Limited Edition with Certificate: Only 1,200 Pieces Worldwide with Certificate

• Product Attributes: Authentic Detailing, Pre-Painted and Markings Pre-Applied, Fully Assembled, Die-Cast Model, True to Scale (1:72), Many Optional Armament Accessories Included, and Display Stand Included.

• Type of Display Base: Black Plastic Base with Black Plastic Stand.

• Display Options: The diecast airplane model can be displayed in either the "In Flight" position or in a "Landing" position since this type of airplane has a fixed landing gear design.

About the Junkers Ju-87 Stuka Dive Bomber:

The Junkers Ju 87 or Stuka was the best known Sturzkampfflugzeug (German: dive bomber) in World War II, instantly recognizable by its inverted gull wings, fixed undercarriage and infamous wailing siren (though these were only fitted to a few aircraft, the extra drag being unwelcome on an already obsolete aircraft).The Stuka's design featured some innovative features, including an automatic pull-up system to ensure that the plane recovered from its attack dive even if the pilot blacked out from the high acceleration, and wind-powered sirens on the wheel covers that wailed during dives to frighten its victims. These were named "Trumpets of Jericho" by Junkers and were a form of psychological warfare.Its rugged fixed undercarriage allowed it to land and take-off from improvised airstrips close to the battlefront, giving close support to the advancing German forces.Although sturdy, accurate, and very effective, the Stuka suffered from low speed and maneuverability, with little defensive armament, making it highly vulnerable to enemy fighters. The Germans learned in the Battle of Britain that air superiority must be obtained before ground attack aircraft could be effectively used. After the Battle of Britain, the Stuka was little used in western Europe, but it remained effective further south where Allied fighters were in short supply (notably in the attacks on Crete and Malta), and was used in vast numbers on the Eastern Front, although the steady rise in Soviet airpower as the war progressed meant that Stuka squadrons suffered very heavy losses.More than six thousand Ju 87 were built between 1936 and August 1944.It was a Ju 87 that achieved the first Axis air victory during World War II.Hans-Ulrich Rudel was the most notable Stuka ace, and in fact the most highly decorated German soldier of the war..

About this Particular Aircraft and the 601 Squadron:

In late July 1942, eighteen Jeeps with SAS members began their initial attacks on LGs ( British term -Landing Grounds) landing strips. There were a string of these strips around Sidi Haneish 70 miles from El Alamein. During these attacks, hundreds of German planes were destroyed, but some were captured with little or no damage. The 601 Squadron became the owners of an Italian Air Force Stuka “D” from LG 13 and added RAF markings as well as the squadron code “UF”. They used it from November 1942 until February 1943.

This flip-flopper was last spotted here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/hobby-master-junkers-ju87-stuka-captured-ha0135-p-158.html

KG_Jag

11-02-2009, 02:28 AM

We have made it to November. So before long the holidays will be upon us, and more than likely a bit of shopping for gifts. Some of our picks this week may be of help.

Our first pick is on topic for the clearance by distributor and many dealers of the outstanding 1:48 scale Eagles International line. From Crossroads for $49.99, we feature the P-51B-5-NA (NA-104) 43-6315 "Ding Hao!", Maj. James Howard.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-94511236631939_2074_23949674 (http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/yhst-94511236631939_2079_28633799)

CO, 356th F.S., 354th F.G., 9th A.F. Only Ace with AVG in CBI and 9th A.F. in Europe. Only fighter pilot in Europe to win the Congressional Medal of Honor winner. 12.3 aerial victories. 10006 has all of the detail features of "Shangri-La" but with the bulged "Malcolm Canopy".

Includes Stand, 108 Gal. and 75 Gallon drop tanks.1/48 scale, 8.5" wingspan.

Get yours hear at a great price:

http://store.crossroadsdiecast.com/e3.html

Another great line of planes that is no more is that of GMP in the 1:35 scale. Our next feature item is also a P-51, but this is the D model with the bubble canopy and six .50 cal. machine guns. The P-51 Mustang 'Duchess Arlene' is all but impossible to find, but First Hobby still has them for $97.05.

http://www.firsthobby.com/images3/GMP51004.jpg

Pilot: Robert Williams.

The Tuskegee Airmen were formed In 1941. The Army Air Force began training black Americans as military pilots in Alabama at Tuskegee's Moton Field and Tuskegee Army Air Field. There assignments were to fly escort and conduct combat missions throughout the Mediterranean and were collectively known as the Tuskegee Airmen. Flying over 200 missions as heavy bomber escorts, they never lost a fighter to an enemy fighter.

Lt. Robert Williams flew 50 combat missions during the war. Williams flew from Italy with the 100th Fighter Squadron, 332nd Fighter Group of the 15th Air Force destroying two enemy aircraft between 1944-1945. He was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with six Oak Leaf Clusters and the Presidential Distinguished Unit Citation. After the war he wrote the original manuscript for the award winning 1995 HBO film "The Tuskegee Airmen." His character was portrayed by actor Laurence Fishburne.

Now you can own a piece of the Tuskegee history with this 1:35 replica. Features include fully functional landing gear, flaps, rudder, a sliding canopy, and removable engine cowling. Each replica is serialized, with a limited production run. Bonus 96-page book included: "Mustang Aces of the Ninth & Fifteenth Air Forces & the RAF" by Jerry Scutts. This book features numerous stories on the men and their mustangs during the war with rare photos.

Scramble to yours here:

http://www.firsthobby.com/store1/Product.asp?ProductID=GMP51004&SN=2009102814350101

We start our ground vehicle fans with a big offering. It's a 21st Century 1:18 scale M16 Multiple-Gun Motor Carriage from Military Issue for just $17.45.

http://www.militaryissue.com/Image.po?pn=0099237&size=large

This 1/18 scale, plastic model replicates the anti-aircraft variant of the United States' famous M3 half-track of World War II. Loaded with factory-applied details such as gas cans and tools, it also features moving parts such as rotating guns, opening doors and rolling wheels; a hood that opens to reveal a detailed engine; a simulated front-end winch; an authentic U.S. Army paint scheme; and more. Look out Luftwaffe fighters!

Measures 13½" long and arrives ready to display.

Keep an eye to sky and here:

http://www.militaryissue.com/product_info.po?ID=6571&product=Models&category=air&subcategory=Non-Aviation

Our final pick this week is a 1:50 scale Corgi Tiger I Tank, Ausf H, Michael Wittmann, Russian Front, LAH, German Army from Troy's Toys for $24.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=US60509&image=0

The German tank ace can still be found on the Eastern Front and here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=US60509

KG_Jag

11-09-2009, 02:58 AM

As we prepare to celebrate Veterans' Day and honor those who have and so serve in our military, a (very) small part of that celebration might include one or more of our picks for this week.

First up from JP Hobbies and Dragon is the 1:35 scale Tiger I Initial Production, s.PzAbt.502 "100" for $52.95. Notice the stowage bin on the side of the turret.

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/prodimages/dml_61028.jpg

Get this first of its kind bad boy here--second from the last listing:

http://www.j-p-hobbies.com/products.asp?cat=163

Our next pick will be familiar to those currently serving all the way back to those serving 20 + years ago, such as the Gulf War I vets. From Forces of Valor and Trinkets to Treasures it's a $39.95 1:32 scale U.S. M1A1 Abrams-- Operation Iraqi Freedom.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/80205x.jpg

Forces of Valor bring amazing military vehicles to life! These true to life die-cast vehicles feature precision engineering, with steel and plastic construction. This is a highly detailed 1:32 scale replica of the U.S. M1A1 Abrams. The M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank is the most advanced battle tank in the world. The firepower and mobility are unsurpassed. The Abrams is continuously updated with the latest communication gear, improved armament and better IFF recognition. This wonderful model features the M1A1 Abrams and honors the men who used this war machine in true action form. The model measures approximately 12 inches long. Realistic battle accessories in realistic detail! Abrams treads roll along the suspension. Includes scale model driver. It comes fully painted, detailed and assembled. Number 80205.

Yours is here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/tanks-vehicles_military_tanks_forces-of-valor-u-s-m1a1-abrams-operation-iraqi-freedom.html

Our first flying selection is also from Trinkets to Treasures and Forces of Valor, but this time in the 1:72 scale. Offered for $38.95, it's the B-26 B Marauder USAAF 'Itsy Bitsy'.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/85046.jpg

From Unimax Forces of Valor, this is a highly detailed 1:72 replica of the B-26B Marauder USAAF 387th BG, 556th BS, 'Itsy Bitsy',Germany. Wingspan measures approx 11 3/4 inches in length. Unimax Forces of Valor model number 85046.
The B-26 Marauder was an American World War II twin-engine medium bomber built by the Glenn L. Martin Company. The first bomber in the Pacific theater and Aleutian Islands in 1942. The Marauder was also used in the European Theater of Operations and in the North African Campaign. It was known as 'The chief bombardment weapon on the Western Front' according to an Army Air Forces dispatch from 1946. The B-26B maintained the lowest loss record of any combat aircraft during World War II and was dubbed 'The Widowmaker' because of its high rate of accidental crashes during takeoff for the B-26A variant.

Begin your two engined flight training here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/aircraft_military_bombers_forces-of-valor-b-26-b-marauder-usaaf-itsy-bitsy.html

Our final selection is an American bird flying for the Rising Sun. From Witty and Toy Train Heaven, it's the 1:72 scale Witty Diecast Airplanes F-15J EAGLE JASDF 305th Sq. for only $13.82.

http://images.toytrainheaven.com/www.toytrainheaven.com/9025-7200511S.jpg

No need to be on special watch on December 7th, they're on our side now and are patrolling here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Witty%20Diecast/66628325/Witty%20Diecast%20Airplanes%20F-15J%20EAGLE%20JASDF%20305th%20Sq%20%3A72%2C%20LIST %20PRICE%20%2419.69

KG_Jag

11-16-2009, 01:28 AM

We start out this week with something for the budget minded. From Dragon in the 1:72 scale by way of Burbank's House of Hobbies, it's the Super Heavy Tank Maus with Testbed at Böblingen "Ready to Test" for just $5.00.

http://www.dragonmodelsusa.com/dmlusa/propics/DIR_DRR/l/l_DRR60323.jpg (http://www.kampfgruppe.us/#)

Features:
- True to 1/72 scale
- Diorama Base Included
- Detailed markings
- Fully assembled
- Highly collectible

At 188 tons, the Maus was the heaviest tank design to reach the prototype stage in WWII. Designed by Ferdinand Porsche, it was suitable classified as a super-heavy tank. It’s ironic that the name Maus means “mouse” in German! The first V1 turretless prototype was completed by Alkett in December 1943, with testing commencing the same month with a mock turret. A production run of 150 tanks was envisaged, but when the war ended a total of only nine Maus tanks were found in various stages of completion. Dragon has produced a scale model of the mighty Maus as it appeared in its prototypical stage. The original V1 prototype featured a weighted mock-up to replicate the actual weight of the turret.

This item has been carefully reproduced on the model, and the whole vehicle is finished in a monotone sand color. The 1/72 scale model is presented in a fully completed mini-diorama, with the Maus ready to begin testing in water at the Böblingen testing facility. The concrete texture on this diorama is superbly rendered in a resin cold casting. This Maus is ready for its driving test!

Grab one for you own tests here:

http://www.houseofhobbies.com/dr1suhetamaw.html

Staying with World War II German AFV's but going up in scale to 1:32, we feature the Forces of Valor Panther Ausf. G Eastern Front from Trinkets to Treasures for $39.95.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/80226.jpg

Unimax Forces of Valor brings this is a wonderful 1:32 scale model of the German Panther Ausf. G - Eastern Front, 1945. Model measures approximately 10 1/2 inches in length. Forces of Valor model number 80226.

The Panther was used by Germany in World War II and served from 1943 until the end of the war in Europe in 1945. It was designed to counter to the Russian T-34, and ultimately replace the Panzer IV and III. The Panther was known for it's excellent combination of firepower, mobility and protection and it is frequently regarded as one of the best tank designs of World War II. Until 1944 it was designated as the Panzerkampfwagen V Panther and had the Ordnance inventory designation of Sd.Kfz. 171. On 27 February 1944, Hitler ordered that the tank only be known as Panther. Forces of Valor models are second to none in detail and realism! These true to life die-cast vehicles feature precision engineering. Forces of Valor models have have working treads and suspension, turrets, elevating cannons, opening hatches and removable accessories. Most Forces of Valor vehicles include scale model figures. They come fully painted, detailed and assembled.

Turn east and click here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/tanks-vehicles_military_tanks_forces-of-valor-panther-ausf-g-eastern-front.html

For our flying favorites this week return to the the USA, but stay in the World War II era for the first. It is a a very colorful Corgi 1:72 scale P-40F Warhawk from Historical Aviation for just $14.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0091892&size=large

Flown by 325th Fighter Group ace Lt. Col. Robert Baseler, this specially modified Warhawk had its outboard guns and other non-essential items removed to it would be lighter and better able to reach high-altitude German photo-reconnaissance aircraft. This 1/72 scale, limited edition, die cast model features engraved panel lines, a detailed cockpit with a pilot figure, a rotating propeller, optional-position landing gear with real rubber tires, authentic markings, a display stand and more. 6" wingspan.

Gain altitude and click here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12306&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=USAAF%20Bombers

Our final pick brings up well into the jet age for a plane that has only recently left front line service, but not the one of the movies you can still catch frequently on TV. From Witty and the Monkey Depot in 1:72 scale, it's the F-14 VF-124 N.A.S. Miramar Bien Scheme for $22.95.

http://www.monkeydepot.com/v/vspfiles/photos/WY0111-2.jpg

Report to Top Gun here:

http://www.monkeydepot.com/Witty_Wings_F_14_VF_124_NAS_Miramar_Bien_Scheme_p/wy0111.htm

KG_Jag

11-23-2009, 02:11 AM

Thanksgiving week is upon us, so a turkey will be easy to find. We'll try to avoid any here.

We'll start the now tough to fine Hobby Master 1:48 scale King Tiger. For your $25.20 Great Models has the King Tiger (Henschel) sPzAbt 511, Germany, April 1945.

http://images.kitlink.com/Products/images/HobbyMaster/HMHG0107.JPG

You can get one here:

http://www.greatmodels.com/~smartcart/cgi/display.cgi?item_num=HMHG0107

Minichamps 1:35 scale AFV's are also difficult to find. Yet we feature one of the not so recent releases this week. From Toys for Collectors for $89.95, we feature the M60A1 tank--Kuwait City 1991.

http://www.tfcusa.com/catalog/images/350041100_N.jpg

Grab one of the last ones from the Marines here:

http://www.tfcusa.com/catalog/product_info.php?cPath=1_17&products_id=2356&osCsid=7c67355d3c6d535b69fc1fc537e4a22f

We go right to source for the Eagles International 1:48 scale aircraft closeout. You can select from a couple of P-51's for $49.99, one of which is the Mustang Mk III, flown by Sqb. leader Eugeniusz Horbaczewski OC No. 315 Polish Deblinski Squadron Royal Air Force 16.5 aerial victories.

http://www.eaglesinternational.com/images/10007/10007108b.jpg

You'll find it here about half way down the page:

http://www.eaglesinternational.com/

Our final selection of the week is an excellent deal from JT's on a 1:72 scale P-51B from Gemini Aces. For just $16.99, you can pick up the ‘Berlin Express’, USAAF 357th Fighter Group, Lt. William Overstreet, #GAUSA2004.

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/product_thumb.php?img=images/geminiaces_p51_2004.jpg&w=170&h=111 (http://www.jtscollectibles.com/images/geminiaces_p51_2004.jpg)

She's on CAP here:

http://www.jtscollectibles.com/gemini-aces-p51b-mustang-berlin-express-p-177.html

KG_Jag

11-30-2009, 04:42 AM

We hope that everyone had a great Thanksgiving.

Unfortunately one of things for which we cannot give thanks about is the loss of die cast companies. This seems to be especially problematic with regard to 1:48 scale planes. Having recently lost both Carousel 1 and Eagles International to the economic wrecking boom, it looks like that old stalwart, Franklin Mint/Armour will be added to the list.

On to something a bit more cheery for the holiday season--our picks for this week. We open with the 1:32 scale Forces of Valor German Jagdpanther on sale at Trinkets to Treasures for $39.95.

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/images/80312.jpg

Unimax Forces of Valor bring amazing military vehicles to life! This is a highly detailed 1:32 scale replica of the German Jagdpanther. The model measures approximately 10 1/4 inches in length. Forces of Valor model number 80312.

The German Jagdpanther was arguably the best tank destroyer design of WWII. The Panther chassis was chosen and it was armed with a powerful 88mm Pak 43 L/71 gun. Although conceptualized and designed in 1942, by the time the tanks were manufactured and shipped to the troops in 1944, Germany was in full retreat across multiple fronts.

Forces of Valor models are second to none in detail and realism! These true to life die-cast vehicles feature precision engineering. Forces of Valor models have have working treads and suspension, turrets, elevating cannons, opening hatches and removable accessories. Most Forces of Valor vehicles include scale model figures. They come fully painted, detailed and assembled.

This best in class World War II AFV can be found here:

http://www.trinketstotreasures.com/tanks-vehicles_military_tanks_forces-of-valor-german-jagdpanther.html

Same side, same war and almost the same scale are featured in our second selection. For your $49.99 from Troy's Toys you can pick up the Dragon 1:35 scale Tiger I Early Production "Michael Wittmann", 13./Pz.Rgt.1, Operation "Zitadelle" July 1943.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=61006&image=0

In a fully built-up 1/35 scale model, Dragon presents a Tiger I Early Production variant as used by Wittmann during Operation Zitadelle in July 1943. The tank is expertly painted in a two-color camouflage scheme that perfectly mimics the original vehicle. It carries the markings of 13./Pz.Rgt.1, of which Wittmann was a platoon commander.

Main Features:
- True to 1/35 scale
- Fully assembled
- Historically accurate
- Hatches can be opened and closed
- Front machine gun can rotate and point in different directions
- Sturdy die cast hull
- Barrel can recoil, just like the real thing
- Includes a display base

About this Armor:
This Battle of Kursk is itself legendary, as 2700 German tanks slugged it out against 3600 Soviet tanks in the world’s largest armored conflagration. New tanks such as the Panther and Elefant made their combat debut at Kursk, but it was the experienced Tiger that provided the advantage over the Soviet military force.

See him a year before he heads for action in France here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=61006

Our first flying pick this week is also from Troy's and is an almost impossible to find in stores Corgi 1:32 scale Spitfire. This is the working range in The Aviation Archive Deluxe--Supermarine Spitfire Mk.I-ZP-A, No.74 Sqn. RAF, Flt Lt. Adolph Sailer Malan fully working model for $89.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=AA33907&image=0

Grab one here with batteries included:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=AA33907

Our final selection this week is a 1:18 scale 21st Century MIG-15bis--Col. Yevgeni Pepelyayev from Historic Aviation for a low flying $19.95.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0099228&size=large

Not only is this - the MIG-15 - the iconic adversary aircraft of the Korean War from which "MIG Alley" received its name, this particular model is painted with the markings of its most successful pilot: Col. Yevgeni Pepelyayev, whose 19 claimed victories make him the top-scoring ace of the war. And the goods don't stop there! This first-ever 1/18 scale plastic model of the famous Soviet fighter also features scribed surface details including simulated rivets; a detailed cockpit with a sliding canopy; movable flight control surfaces including working airbrakes; an accessible gun tray; retractable landing gear; an open air intake in the nose; and a specially sculpted, articulated figure of Pepelyayev. 22" wingspan; minimal assembly required.

Clear some display space and get yours here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12107

KG_Jag

12-06-2009, 11:40 PM

The day before the anniversary of the Japanese at of Pearl Harbor, we will jump past the number of vendors we featured last year. Given the economy, that's more than worth noting.

Our first selection is a Forces of Valor D-Day U.S. M3A1 Half-Track 1:32 Scale from OB's for only $26.95.

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/uploads/81314.jpg

Jump on one here:

http://www.obsdiecastplanes.com/Qstore/Qstore.cgi?CMD=011&PROD=1237671149

Our second armor pick is the Corgi 1:50 scale T34/85 Tank, North Korean 109th Tank Regiment from Asheville Diecast for $31.17.

http://www.pthinc.com/userImages/productImages/t34%20tank.jpg;jsessionid=8CFA81EAFDBAEEC34DC37A44 A5D5CE5B

Aim your super bazooka here:

http://ashevillediecast.com/cart.php?target=product&product_id=19529&category_id=273

First up for our aircraft selections this week is a CORGI 1:72 scale JU 88 AA36704 . Collectable Jets has it for $75.95 with free shipping.

http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/showcasetoys_2084_11853733

Searchlights here:

http://www.collectablejets.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=CJETS&Product_Code=CG-AA36704&Category_Code=MMCORGI

Our final pick this week is a 1:48 scale Hobby Master U.S. F9F-2 Panther - 'Jolly Rogers' from WarToyz for $45.99.

http://www.wartoyz.com/Merchant2/graphics/00000001/ha7205-f9f-panther-450.jpg

The U.S. F9F Panther was the first jet fighter manufactured by Grumman and was the most widely used U.S. Navy jet fighter during the Korean War. It was also responsible for the first air kill by the U.S. Navy during the Korean War.

This highly detailed 1:48 scale version of the U.S. F9F-2 Panther depicts the aircraft flown by Lt. Lawrence Cauble of VF-61 ('Jolly Rogers') of the USS Franklin Roosevelt as is it was seen in 1951.

This U.S. F9F-2 Panther is part of Hobby Master's Air Power Series. The 1:48 scale die cast metal aircraft is approximately 9.5 inches long with an 9 inch wingspan, and includes detailed features such as foldable wings, slide open canopy, retractable undercarriage, and detachable fuel tanks. The aircraft also includes a pilot figure.

All hands on deck here:

http://www.wartoyz.com/page/WT/PROD/HOLIDAY/HM-HA7205

KG_Jag

12-13-2009, 11:05 PM

Hanukkah is here and Christmas is just 11 days away, if you celebrate it in the traditional German way on Christmas Eve. So here's a few deals that just might make a late shopping Santa smile.

First up is a great stocking stuffer from Dragon and Troy's Toys. It's the 1:72 scale Early Production Tiger I with Zimmerit--Germany 1945 for $9.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=60108&image=0

While you might be able to drive this into the woods, this link has nothing do do with a golfer's "girlfriends":

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=60108

For those who prefer them larger, we next feature the Unimax Force of Valor 1:32 scale US M3 Lee, Tunisia '42 from Toy Train Heaven for $35.75.

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41vsNoW1tEL.jpg

North Africa awaits Sanda Clause here:

http://www.toytrainheaven.com/.sc/ms/dd/Military--Unimax%20Toys/67816278/Unimax%20Toys%20Inc%5E2Fpanache%20Place%201%5E2F32 %20US%20M3%20Lee%2C%20Tunisia%20%2742%2C%20LIST%20 PRICE%20%2449.99

We now take the air with reindeer, with the Hobby Master 1:72 scale MIG-21 MF JG-1, Dec. 1990 from Asheville Diecast for $23.30.

http://www.1999.co.jp/itbig08/10084022.jpg

Here's the link with more pictures, including gear down:

http://ashevillediecast.com/cart.php?target=product&product_id=23039&category_id=515

Our final selection of this snowy week for many of you is a great deal on a bird from another line biting the dust in these hard times (and maybe in part because its MAP policies). From Franklin Mint/Armour through Historic Aviation, it's a great deal at $60.00 on the 1:48 scale F-22 Raptor "Spirit of America," which was flown by the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base in 1998.

http://www.historicaviation.com/Image.po?pn=0094237&size=large

Now, for the first time, the U.S. Air Force's next-generation fighter is available in a 1/48 scale, die cast model! Featuring engraved panel lines; a detailed, hand-painted cockpit; wing-mounted missiles; realistic exhaust nozzles; extended landing gear with rubber tires; and the markings of "Spirit of America," which was flown by the 412th Test Wing at Edwards Air Force Base in 1998, this model measures 15½" long and arrives ready to display.

2 to 1 she'll beat the reindeer to your house--see for yourself here:

http://www.historicaviation.com/product_info.po?ID=12467&product=Models+and+Kits&category=ww&subcategory=Allied%20Fighters

KG_Jag

12-21-2009, 12:54 AM

It's Christmas week! Merry Christmas and happy holidays to all.

This week we feature four very good deals that are also at a low price. Almost all are perfect for a stocking stuff, however some might require a larger than average stocking.

Our first pick this week is (by a hair) our lowest in price. It is a Dragon 1:72 scale German Super Heavy Tank E-100 from Diecast Direct for just $9.98.

http://www.hobbybunker.com/images/products/60138.jpg

Get this big boy in a small package here:

http://www.diecastdirect.com/asp_modules/add_item.asp?ProductCode=DW60138

Our second pick is probably the best deal of some very good deals this week. From Corgi by way of Spirit of '76, it is a 1:50 scale M4 Sherman Tank Diecast Model US Army, Sicily, 1943 LIMITED EDITION 4.5" L x 2.25" W--for just $11.90.

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/CC51006.jpg

Find it fifth from the top on this page:

http://www.spirit-of-76.com/aircraftvehicles/vehicles/corgi/index.htm

The lowest price plane this week is a special from Troy's Toys. It is a Dragon 1:72 scale Spitfire Mk. Vb for only $9.99.

http://www.troystoysinc.com/showimage.php?stockid=50253&image=0

Grab one before Christmas here:

http://www.troystoysinc.com/display_product.php?stockid=50253

Our final selection this week is from the Fly Mule, which has a number of great 1:48 Carousel 1 birds at closeout prices. From these, I have selected the Focke-Wulf Fw 190 D-11 Luftwaffe JV 44 Papagie Staffel, "Red 4", Karl-Heinz Hofmann, May 1945 for $29.99.

http://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_01_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_02_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_03_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_04_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_05_thm.jpghttp://www.flyingmule.com/img/prd/CA-7142_06_thm.jpg

Length 8.25" Width 8.5"

In July 1944 Germany introduced the Messerschmitt Me 262, the first jet aircraft in combat. Allied pilots were astonished by its speed – 100mph faster than the best Allied fighters- and quick to find its weakness-it was vulnerable at take-off and particularly at landing. So the Luftwaffe arranged for conventional fighters to cover the jets over their air bases, and Soviet Aircraft. Adolf Galland was dismissed from his position as General of Fighters because Germany was overwhelmed by Allied air attacks and Reichsmarchall Hermann Goring needed a scapegoat. In February 1945, Goring authorized Galland to form a Jagdverband (Special Fighter Squadron) of experienced pilots to fly the Me 262. Retraining took time, and they did not become operational until 5 April, 1945. Galland recruited Leutnant Heinz Sachsenberg (104 victories) from Jagd Geschwader (Hunting Wing0 26, to lead a Platzschutzstaffel (Airfield Defense Flight). Four Fw190D’s were acquired: three D-9’s and one D-11. They painted these airplanes red underneath with white stripes on the undersides of the wings, horizontal tail planes and forward fuselage to prevent German flak from confusing their ‘Doras’ with American Mustangs. When jets took off and landed, the 190D’s were to circle the vicinity of the Munich-Reim airfield at an altitude of 500 meters and never to pursue Allied fighters. They used the radio call signal Pagagei (Parrot), but this was not a name for their unit. Sachsenberg flew “Red 1”, Hptm. Waldemar Wubke flew “Red 3” and Oblt. Klaus Faber flew “Red 13” , (all D-9s). Lt. Karl-Heinz Hofmann flew “Red 4’ a D-11. Previously this Dora-11 aircraft was thought a prototype, but the latest information confirms that it was a production aircraft with standard two-tone green camouflage. Hofmann was one of the few members of JV 44 Doras bore slogans, and Hofmann’s was “ Der Nachste Herr deiselbe Dame!” ( The next Guy same Dame!) His rare Dora-11 had 30mm cannons mounted outboard of the landing gear instead of the cannons in the wing roots). Although the D-11 had much greater firepower, outboard cannons were prone to jam, and many pilots preferred the D-9’s concentrated firing pattern. Limited Edition of 1200 pieces worldwide.

Designed by Kurt Tank, the Fw-190A was first flown on June 1st, 1939. This small, yet ferociously-powered aircraft was fast and maneuverable and packed a fierce armament package earning it the nickname "Butcher Bird". The wide landing gear, excellent visibility and high-altitude paddle-bladed propeller endeared it to pilots familiar with the shortcomings of its predecessor - the Messerschmitt Bf 109. Some of the Luftwaffe's most famous fighter aces flew the Fw 190. Many variants were produced during the war, with the most notable being the inline-engine equipped and longer-nosed 190D, known as the "Dora."

Carousel's 1:48 scale Fw 190Ds include a solid diecast paddle-blade propeller that spins with almost no friction, and radiator detail can be observed inside the cowling. The landing gear and center fuel tank (optional fuel tank available with most releases) slip in place and are secured with magnets. The diecast exhaust stacks are amazingly detailed, with each port rising through the cowling to represent all 12 cylinders. The sliding canopy opens for easy viewing of the cockpit and closes with no gap to disturb the lines of the fuselage. Additional detail includes hand-painted control surface trim tabs and simulated protective leather boots surrounding the main cannons inside the wheel wells.
The Carousel 1 "AirCraft" range presents highly-detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. Carousel 1 have an excellent reputation for producing superbly accurate diecast models of racing cars and their "AirCraft" range is worthy of the same praise. Aircraft in the Carousel 1 AirCraft range are carefully researched and reproduced with a level of detail that is unmatched by most other manufacturers in this scale.

Carousel 1 "AirCraft" diecast airplanes feature:

Diecast metal construction with some plastic components.
Realistic panel lines, antennas, access panels and surface details.
Pad printed markings and placards that won't fade or peel like decals.
Optional extended/retracted metal landing gear with rotating wheels and rubber tires.
Extremely detailed cockpit interiors with glazed instruments.
Detailed removable pilot figures.
Spinning metal propellers.
Accurately detailed underside with concealed screwheads.
© Copyright 2003-2009 The Flying Mule, Inc.

Get yours here before they are all gone:

http://www.flyingmule.com/products/CA-7142