Hobby Master 1:72 Air Power Series HA2206
Curtiss SB2C Helldiver Diecast Model
USN VS-31 Topcats, "Black 47", NAS Atlantic City, NJ
| 1:72 Scale | | Length | | Width |
|---|
| Curtiss SB2C Helldiver | | 6.25" | | 8.25" |
The SB2C Helldiver was commonly referred to as “The Beast” because of its size and rather poor handling characteristics. Even with new variants and upgrades the Helldiver never received the credit and respect it deserved. The most produced variant was the “4” with the SB2C-4E equipped with an AN/APS-4 radar pod mounted under the starboard wing for air search. It flew faster and further than the Avenger, except for range it beat the SBD in every category. Its cruising speed was only 2 mph slower than the famous Hellcat.
Originally designated Scouting Squadron 31 they served meritoriously in the North Atlantic from 1942 until the end of WWII in 1945. Then the squadron was decommissioned until April 1948 they were re-established at NAS Atlantic City, New Jersey as Composite Squadron, VC-31. In 1949 they were re-designated the Atlantic Fleet’s first VS Squadron, VS-31. VS-31 was an Air Anti-Submarine Squadron and took the name “Topcats”. Shortly after this they were moved to NAS Quonset Point, Rhode Island.
Designed to replace the US Navy’s Douglas SBD Dauntless, the SB2C Helldiver was first flown on December 18, 1940. The Helldiver was larger and faster than the Dauntless and was capable of operating from the most advanced aircraft carriers of its time. It carried an impressive armament but was underpowered and had a reputation for difficult handling characteristics, which earned it the nickname “Son-of-a-Bitch 2nd Class.” Most of its problems were resolved with the SB2C-4 variant, which changed many pilots’ minds about the Helldiver; in their eyes, its ability to sortie over long distances and carry a heavier bomb load redeemed many of its remaining faults.© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
The Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power Series" presents detailed, ready-made diecast models of military aircraft. Hobby Master offer the more price-sensitive collector a cheaper alternative to models from leading manufacturers like Corgi and Century Wings. Hobby Master "1:72 Air Power 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.
- 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.
© Copyright 2003-2010 The Flying Mule, Inc.
