We have seen the fighter version in the flesh - now we get to see the recon longer nosed McDonnell F2H-2/2P Banshee from Kittyhawk in 48th scale. In making the Kittyhawk Banshee they have had some help from the guys at Detail and scale to get the plans just right – let’s have a look at what is in store for us...
USN F2H-2/2P "Banshee"
Code: KH 80131
1:48th scale
ETA AUGUST
Expected Price: $65
This very popular machine that has never really been adequately kitted in 48th scale has been identified by Kittyhawk and now we are going to get a new tool McDonnell F2H Banshee. A mainstay of the early 50s Navy, the aircraft saw action in Korea, although its most capable, later variants were destined to serve only in peacetime.
The two variants in this boxing:
F2H-2 - detachable wingtip fuel tanks, eight underwing weapons pylons for 1,580 lb (454 kg) stores capability, 3,250 lbf (1,475 kgf) Westinghouse J34-WE-34 turbojet engines. 308 built.
F2H-2P - Single-seat photo-reconnaissance version with lengthened nose housing six cameras, 89 built.
The new Kittyhawk Model features foldable wings, open access ports and posable flying surfaces, a posable arrestor hook and airbrakes. Frist let's look at the Banshee in number and in real life...
The McDonnell F2H-3 Banshee in numbers
First flight: 11 January 1947
Status: Phased out of service
Primary users:United States Navy + Marine Corps + Royal Canadian Navy
Number built: 895
Developed from: McDonnell FH Phantom
General characteristics
Crew: 1
Length: 48 ft 2 in (14.68 m)
Wingspan: 41 ft 9 in (12.73 m)
Height: 14 ft 6 in (4.42 m)
Wing area: 294 ft² (27.3 m²)
Empty weight: 13,183 lb (5,980 kg)
Loaded weight: 21,013 lb (9,531 kg)
Max. takeoff weight: 25,214 lb (11,437 kg)
Powerplant: 2 × Westinghouse J34-WE-34 turbojets, 3,250 lbf (14.5 kN) each
Struts are there just like on the real thing to re-enforce the folded wing.
Open cockpit is shown off in this shot with some nice detail to pick out. The access panel int he nose gives extra interest.
The banshee entered USN & USAF service in the fifties, but it was the dark blue scheme which became the well-known colouring for this aircraft.
The aircraft was also used for a very short time in all natural metal which could be an option for modellers, later their aircraft were painted in the grey/white colours we all know the navy/ marines to use in the 60's. The Canadian Naval Airforce also used the Banshee...
The latest shots from KittyHawk of their built up test kit to show the finer detail of this kit, Let's take a look at the details on show.
Wing folds are shown here to good effect - and YES there should not be missiles on the folded wings - this is just a demo
F2H-2P Camera nosed version...
Due in September - We will give you a more detailed look at this kit from Kittyhawk as soon as it lands…