Trumpeter 1/48 Supermarine Seafang F.Mk.32 First Look Kit First Look

By Dave Manter

First Look

The Seafang was essentially a Spiteful redesigned for Royal Navy carrier use. Two prototype Seafang MK.32s were ordered on March 12th, 1945 followed by an order for 150 Seafang MK.31s on May 7th, 1945. To expedite entry into service, the interim MK. 31 was ordered which was a navalised Spiteful, basically a Spiteful with an arrester hook. This would allow the MK. 32 to be developed. It would be the definitive naval variant, with the addition of an arrester hook and with a contra-rotating propeller to eliminate engine torque effects and power folding outer wing panels.

The Trumpeter kit of the Supermarine Seafang consists of 89 plastic parts and 5 photo etch detail parts. The molding and the details are first rate. The panel lines are fine and the recessed rivet detail is some of the best that I have seen. Decals are included for three aircraft. They are:

• Royal Navy, aircraft Dark Sea Gray over Light Gray Green, yellow and black stripes around wings and fuselage
• Royal Navy, aircraft Dark Sea Gray over Sky
• Spanish Air Force, aircraft Silver over Intermediate Blue

The decals are very well printed and should lay down without any problems. The Instructions are laid out well and following each step will be easy. The cockpit has 17 parts, including the very well detailed camera and will look great once assembled. The instrument panel has great detail and Trumpeter has also supplied a decal for the gauges. The contra-rotating propellers have a gear box included and with careful assembly, the props can spin once constructed. Trumpeter has also included the parts to allow you to fold the outer wings up, but you will have to cut the panels off at the fold line. The flaps and the tail hook can be assembled up or down.

Another great kit in Trumpeters line of 1/48th scale aircraft!

My sincere thanks to Squadron Mail Order for this review sample!