I've been after this one for a long time now -- and I finally tracked it down! I just really like the checkered cowl scheme and this model just
looks great in 1:48. It looks so good, in fact, I sold off
my Corgi version as soon as it landed. The main difference between the two,
other than scale, is that Corgi uses black for the anti-glare coating around the canopy, and FM uses olive drab. Now, it's natural to
assume FM got it wrong -- particularly as the restored (flying) version of this aircraft also has black. However, I have not been able to
ascertain this either way. I actually think FM may be right as the birds tended to arrive in the theater painted OD all over, and as the war
went on they were field stripped to bare metal and the OD was left as the anti-glare shield. Take Bud Anderson's
Old Crow Mustang, for
instance, where this is the case.
       This particular model is entirely pad-printed, and is a FM release -- not a CDC Armour Collection original. (Early CDC prop
releases tend to have water-slide decals.) It is very well made, with excellent fit/finish overall. There are a few visible gaps, and visible
screw heads on the belly (as always). However, there's really nothing for me to grouse about, aside from the usual FM caveats (no
moving parts, up/down gear options, etc.) I still believe the Jug is one of FM's best efforts, and this one is no exception.

                                             Highly Recommended!
Franklin Mint, 1:48
#98311/B11B562:         P-47D "No Guts, No Glory"
Score: 4.5           (out of 5)

Collectibility:                   Medium

Price (MSRP):                       $
70

Production:                    Unlimited
                                      
Catalog Number:          B11B5
62
Pluses
Minuses
Excellent "heft" factor
No moving parts, display stand, or
retractable gear. No pilot figures.
Paint is very well-applied, no "sticker"
decals, all are  pad-printed
Paint detail on the smaller parts is a bit
rough, visible screw heads on the bottom
Gorgeous paint scheme
Small decals are pad printed but are not as
crisp as they could be -- very hard to read