Harrier / SHAR / AV-8B
1/48 Scale Decals

Sky Models Decals

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Reviewed by Brett Green

Sky Models Decals' latest release is a 1/48 scale sheet for Harrier, Sea Harriers and AV-8Bs. 

Sky Models seem determined to squeeze the maximum number of modelling subjects onto a single decal sheet. This is achieved with absolutely no compromise in production quality. These decals are beautifully printed by Cartograf of Italy. 

41 choices can be found on this decal sheet.

If that does not sound like enough choice, other options will be possible by mixing and matching decals. The emphasis is decidedly British. Variants covered include British GR.1, GR.3, GR.5, GR.7. FRS.1, FA.2, T.4, T.4N and T.10; two US Marines' AV-8Bs and a Spanish Armada VAE.1.

Colour schemes are quite varied. These range from overall grey or green, to combinations of grey and green, plus a number of Arctic options with large areas of white overspray.

A selection of roundels and fin flashes are supplied in British red and blue. Surprisingly, however, national markings are not included for the Spanish or American aircraft. Even more surprising, the instructions suggest that the "toned down" markings for recent SHARs should be achieved by overspraying the high-viz decals with Barley Grey! I do not recommend this course - take a trip to the spares box instead.

Instructions are provided over twelve pages. In common with Sky Models earlier releases, the artwork and placement instructions are half-hearted. This is partially compensated by clearly marked decal numbers that correspond to the number on the decal sheet. Some of the colour calls are questionable, such as the suggestion of Barley Grey for the FA.2 Harriers. Other references suggest that these aircraft should be finished in either Medium Sea Grey or Extra Dark Sea Grey. A good reference will be advisable to check the details of specific subject aircraft. The instructions also include a helpful table listing general colour descriptions and their associated FS numbers and model paint counterparts. The list does not offer suggestions for the last two colours - Camouflage Grey and Gris Gaviota.

You will be able to build most of the exotic subjects on the Sky Models Harrier sheet. AMRAAM Line has released a series of 1/48 scale resin conversions and ordnance for the Harrier GR.5, GR.7, AV-8b+ and Night Attack Harrier (click here to see these conversions on AMRAAM line's website) and Heritage Aviation has a detail set for the Airfix Harrier/Sea Harrier kits (click hear to see the review).

With these new accessories and conversions now available for the 1/48 scale Harrier, and with the recent re-release of the Monogram AV-8B kit, there has never been a better time to build a Harrier. Now, with the release of Sky Models decal sheet, there has never been more choice!

Combined with a good reference, this decal sheet will be a wonderful way to customise your Harrier.

Recommended.

Thanks to Pacific Coast Models for the review sample.

Sky Models Decals are available from Pacific Coast Models Website

Review Copyright © 2001 by Brett Green
This Page Created on 27 November, 2001
Last updated 22 July, 2003

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