1:32 Grumman TBM-3 Avenger

Grumman TBM-3 Avenger 1:32 — Techmod decals

This sheet of wet, water-release decals from the Polish manufacturer Techmod brings markings for the carrier torpedo bomber TBM-3 Avenger in 1:32 scale. It is not a kit or a model, but an accessory to a model that has already been built — you use it if you want a different finish from the one the original sheet in the kit offers, or if the original decals have yellowed or cracked.

The real subject

The Avenger was a three-seat carrier torpedo bomber of the US Navy from the period of the Second World War. Grumman designed the airframe, but it was the Eastern Aircraft division of the General Motors corporation that built it in quantity — hence the designation TBM instead of TBF. The TBM-3 version was given a more powerful radial engine and was the most numerously built variant of the type. The machine had an internal bomb bay for a torpedo or a bomb load, a defensive gun turret and a folding wing for operating from aircraft carriers. It was deployed above all in the Pacific, not only for attacks on shipping targets but also for bombing ground targets and for anti-submarine patrols.

Application tips

Apply the decals onto a gloss, perfectly dry varnish. Cut the marking out as close as you can, dip it in lukewarm water for a few seconds, let it stand and slide it onto a moistened place. You can adjust the position with a brush, and blot the excess water away. Over rivets, engraved lines and the ripples of the skin a decal softener will help. At the end, give the whole model a coat of matte varnish — carrier machines usually had a surface with little gloss.

Who the sheet is for

• builders of US Navy carrier aircraft in 1:32 scale
• modelers who want a finish outside the contents of the box
• those who need a replacement for damaged decals
• collectors of models of the equipment of the Pacific theater

This is a separate accessory. The model, paints and glue are not included in the package.