At the request of a large group of scale modelers, who like to recreate the remarkable journey of the Bones in the favored scales of 1/32nd, 1/48th and 1/72nd, I have decided to start a resource page were advice and information can be found regarding models, aftermarket products, and serious research. My partner in this venture is HobbyLinkJapan. They will be more than glad to place these products fast and at fair prices at your door. I do not intend to review every single Jolly Rogers model on the market, but only to advice on what  other researchers and I think are the best replicas. Being a modeler myself, and a self-confessed rivet counter, what you can find here is a passion for accuracy and a true desire to spread the word on modeling the birds of the greatest squadron ever.

Hasegawa Grumman F-14B Tomcat "Jolly Rogers Last Flight"

	Model by Hasegawa F-14B Tomcat 1/72 Scale

This April 2005 release is based on the Hasegawa F-14B Tomcat in 1/72 scale. It is a well known model, and to me it is the best on this popular scale. A very detailed plastic model, with interesting options and features. The swing Wings can be assembled full forward of full back, and for the first case separate flaps and slats are provided. These, together with separate speedbrakes and the option of kneeling front gear leg allow for many variation, from a parked bird on land or at the carrier, to full dioramas depicting cat launches and traps. This model comes with the LANTIRN pod, and has a very nice photo etch fret with canopy sill and engine details.

The decals are very nice, and quite a surprise for me. Up until now I wouldn't consider Hasegawa decals for a Jolly Rogers project - they had a long history of getting the pure white of the Bones depicted as a creamy color. Exceptions were few, and always entailed the inclusion of Cartograf decals. Many modelers that I know had standing orders for Jolly Rogers releases - send it in if the decals are by Cartograf, forget it if they are not. Well, Hasegawa decided to listen to us, and I am pleased with the whites on this model's decals. Kudos for them. Decals are provided for two high-viz aircraft, modex numbers 100 and 103.

This altogether pleasant model portraying the last Tomcats to fly with the Bones is available at HobbyLinkJapan: http://www.hlj.com/product/HSG00382

Hasegawa Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet

 

	Model by Hasegawa F/A-18F Hornet 1/48 Scale

Click the picture to access the review of this model, that is available at HobbyLinkJapan: http://www.hlj.com/product/HSGPT38