EagleCals Decals
P-40 Tomahawk IIB
EC#71
by Mark Proulx

This is a review of the first of two new decal sheets from Eagle Editions. It is designed for use with the Trumpeter P-40 in 1/32nd scale. Modelers wishing to read a review about the second release can find EagleCals #73 reviewed here.

Two sharkmouth P-40's from No. 112 Squadron are represented with this new sheet. The squadron is known for creating the original sharkmouth design on the P-40 that was copied and brought to fame by the AVG in China.P/O Neville Duke flew the first aircraft coded GA-F displaying the serial number AK402. Duke would eventually become the leading RAF ace in the MTO. This Tomahawk, flown from Sidi Haneish in November 1941 was finished in a pattern of Dark Earth/Mid Stone and Azure Blue.

P/O Jack Bartle flew the second P-40 in October 1941. Carrying the simple code "K", the aircraft was decorated with some unusual artwork under the sliding canopy indicative of the pilot's Australian roots. It is painted in a similar pattern to the above aircraft and identifies the serial number as AN413.

The instructions identify all references used in the creation of these markings. Color profiles portray left and upper views of each aircraft giving proper locations for each marking. Photos indicate that some of these P-40's had the wing roots applied over top of the fuselage roundels. Though this isn't depicted on the profiles or detailed in the instructions, it is a simple modification to trim the fuselage roundel around the wing root. Stencils are limited to prop locations only as the items on the airframe were likely painted over.

The decals are printed over a single page of paper with a minimum of visible carrier film. Registration is very good with good color density. The markings are thin and I expect no difficulty in applying them. Different sharkmouth and eye patterns and are included for both schemes reflecting some of the differences found on each aircraft. Unfortunately there are national insignias for a single aircraft only.

Overall, this is another welcome release from Eagle Editions. These aircraft are very colorful and will give modelers the opportunity to represent groups that are arguably less known than The Flying Tigers. I recommend this decal sheet to anyone with an interest in the P-40 and its sharkmouth heritage.

Review Sample Compliments of Eagle Editions

© Mark Proulx 2004