Item: 1/32 U.S. Air Force Vietnam Combat Jet Pilot

Manufacturer: Master Details
Stock Number: 32014
MSRP: Pilot $14.95 plus shipping
Ordering Information: http://www.masterdetailsfromusa.com

Advantages: Multiple poses, excellent sculpting, accurate proportions, minimal casting blocks.

Disadvantages: None noted.

Master Details latest release honors one of America’s great heroes. Brig. Gen. Robin Olds was one of the few pilots to see action in both World War II and Vietnam. A brilliant tactician, he orchestrated “Operation Bolo” in Vietnam in which F-4s masquerading as F-105s surprised and routed the force of North Vietnamese MiGs sent up to intercept the flight. Sadly, Gen. Olds passed away not long ago.

Master Details’ first figure was a USAF Jet Pilot, so one might wonder what can be new about this new release. Well, in short, everything. Beyond the tribute likeness of one of the heads to Gen. Olds (accurate right down to the trademark handlebar mustache), close inspection reveals that this is a completely new sculpting. However, the attention to detail and proportion that have come to characterize this manufacturer are reflected here in full force. Details include zipper pulls and pens in the sleeve pocket, G-suit with hose, laced flight boots and a survival vest with all fittings and a K0Bar survival knife. In addition, the value factor is also extremely high with 4 separate arms and three helmet/visor combinations in addition to the likeness of Gen. Olds.

If you have any of the 1/32 scale Vietnam era jets in your collection, this figure provides the opportunity to really set them apart. If you have one of the Tamiya F-4s, then you’ll need at least 2. You can mix and match from the earlier USAF pilot release (#32001) to provide variety in your “front office” crew. Last but not least, you can pay tribute to a true American hero.

Highly recommended.

Thanks to Master Details for the review sample.