The Modelling News: Hobbyboss' new items of February 2024

Two unsung workhorses of WWII in 48th scale are the subjects of Hobbyboss' February items. We look at the sprues, colours, decals & build up kits in our preview...

Hobbyboss' new items of February 2024 - in plastic, art, colours & built up...

TBD-1 Devastator

by Hobby Boss

Model no: #81783

1/48th scale

Price: $86 USD on the HLJ Website

The Douglas TBD Devastator was a torpedo bomber of the United States Navy, ordered in 1934, it first flew in 1935 and entered service in 1937. At that point, it was the most advanced aircraft flying for the USN and possibly for any navy in the world. However, the fast pace of aircraft development caught up with it, and by the time of the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor the TBD was already outdated.

The colour schemes presented in this kit

The decals in the box

Paint mass for the aircraft are included

It performed well in some early battles, but in the Battle of Midway the Devastators launched against the Japanese fleet were almost totally wiped out. The type was immediately withdrawn from front line service, replaced by the Grumman TBF Avenger. Crew: Three: Pilot, Torpedo Officer/Navigator, Radioman/Gunner

Model Length: 221.8mm / Wingspan: 314mm

Total of 17 sprues

The kit consists of over 140 parts

-Detailed fuselage & wing w/accurate design

-Engine with fine detail

-Detailed cockpit

-Photo etched parts included

The kit built by Hobbyboss modelers

B-24J Liberator

by Hobby Boss

Model: #81774

1/48th scale

Price $187 USD on the HLJ Website

Developed by Consolidated Aircraft, The B-24 Liberator entered service in 1941. With longer range and larger internal volume compared to the more famous B-17, it exhibited high versatility and played a significant role in various World War II missions such as bombing, transport, and naval patrol worldwide.

The decals in the box

Paint mass for the aircraft are included

This new kit from Hobby Boss accurately models the later main variant, the J type, with over 490 parts. It has precise detailing and dimensions, measuring 43 cm in length and 69.5 cm in wingspan. The tires are made of soft resin, and the kit includes photo-etched parts.

Model Length: 430.3mm / Wingspan: 694.6mm

Total of 20 sprues and tires

- Detailed fuselage & wing w/accurate design

- Finely detailed cockpit, gear & cockpit,

- Grooved rubber tires

- PE parts included

The kit built by Hobbyboss modelers