F8F-1B Bearcat “Blue Angels” Die-Cast Model

Developed with feedback from pilots of the 1940s, the Grumman F8F Bearcat was intended to have both the lightest airframe possible and the most powerful engine available.

Selecting the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp as their heart and soul, engineers adapted the F6F Hellcat to be both shorter and wider, increasing maneuverability and decreasing excess weight. Relying on the concept pioneered from early-war F2A Brewsters, it was produced to the tune of 1,200 units, which would serve between 1945 and 1963 for several nations across the globe.

• Features an authentic Blue Angels livery with engraved panel lines, printed decals, antennas, and surface details
• Includes deployed or retracted landing gear and display stand to show the aircraft in flight configuration
• Measures 4.75”l with a 6” wingspan at 1:72 scale
• Highly collectible and officially licensed model

With over 2000hp and 20% lighter airframe than the F6F Hellcat, it was no question why the new Bearcat had attained a significant performance jump. It now climbed 30% better and had a top speed of 455mph, compared to the Hellcat’s 400mph limit. Supplementing the airframe weight reduction was the weaponry configuration, with just four 0.50 calibre machine guns or 20mm cannons, instead of six MGs and two cannons. This shouldn’t have dissuaded pilots though, as the 20mm cannons were highly effective against both ground based and aerial targets. Further increasing its capability, the F8F also had three bomb pylons with capacity for 1000 lbs each, and up to four HVAR rockets.

Replacing the original F6F-5 Hellcat in 1946, the Blue Angel’s new F8F-1Bs were both faster and more maneuverable on display. The Bearcat was also the first aircraft to receive the Blue Angels name painted on it, and was used to introduce the iconic “diamond” formation. The F8F would become the final propellor driven aircraft that the Angels would pilot, replaced by the F9F-2 Panther in 1949. Die-Cast version features an authentic Blue Angels livery, pad printed details, engraved panel lines, and surface detailing. Includes retracted or deployed landing gear and display stand to show the model in flight. Measures 4.75”l with a 6” wingspan at 1:72 scale.