Fightertown Decals

1/48 VX-30 Bloodhounds
Sheet Number: FTD48-019
Reviewed by  James Kelley, IPMS# 42106

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MSRP: $16.00
Website: www.fightertowndecals.com

Navy Test and Evaluation Squadron 30 (VX-30, the "Bloodhounds") has been represented sporadically… until now. Sharing a sheet of decals with VMFA-225 on TwoBobs’ sheet #48-163. and a Superscale sheet (#48-1197) with VFA-83, this squadron has been under represented in the scale modeling world. With one of the most intimidating squadron logos, and some of the most eye-catching paint schemes, modelers of modern naval aviation subjects have been left out in the cold when it comes to having a Bloodhound or three in their kennel.

Enter up-and-coming decal manufacturer Fightertown Decals. Unafraid of making sheets that others either overlooked or shied away from they’ve stepped up to answer the needs of modelers wanting to add the Bloodhounds to their collection.

Like several other decal manufacturers, Fightertown has numerous contacts in the community their products focus on -- in this case, Naval Aviation (like, there’s any other kind?...OK, those Air Force guys are pretty tight, too!) My point is this: their subjects are painstakingly researched and every detail is reproduced.

Included with this package are decals for the following jets:
  • Bloodhound 100 F/A-18A BuNo. 163122
  • Bloodhound 101 F/A-18A BuNo. 162455
  • Bloodhound 102 F/A-18A BuNo. 163130
  • Bloodhound 200 F/A-18B BuNo. 163115
  • Bloodhound 203 F/A-18B BuNo. 161740
A separate sheet of "slime" formation lights.

Two-view color profile references for each of the above-mentioned jets, as well as top/bottom views.

Numerous reference points for each aircraft.

Federal Standard paint color references for each aircraft.

One set of walkway decals.

One set of data plate decals.

Mission-specific loadout information.

Landing gear data plate reference photos.

Aftermarket accessory list.

A brief history/mission-specific profile of VX-30.

The decals, printed by Microscale, are in perfect register throughout. Fightertown Decals have continued their commitment to excellence with this release. By introducing this sheet, they have provided the modeler with several options for building an important aviation subject. Highly recommended without reservation.

My thanks to Brian Plescia of Fightertown Decals for the review sample.

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