1/48 Monogram TBD-1 Devastator

by Mike Reeves

--------------------

 

I built this TBD-1 Devastator using Monogram's 1/48 kit, Eduard's aftermarket photoetched set, and Eagle Strike's Devastator at War decals.  I chose to model the aircraft of Lt. George Gay- the only VT-8 pilot to survive the Battle of Midway.  His plane was shot down shortly after dropping it's torpedo and he had a ringside seat as the Japanese carriers were sunk by high-flying SBD Dauntlesses.  I used Modelmaster's US Navy Blue Gray and Light Sea Gray for the scheme.  Using the photoetch set led to some fit problems when trying to close up the fuselage but the use of Squadron's Putty helped this.  Weathering was accomplished using Doc O'Brien's Weathering Powders.

Click on images below to see larger images

This was a challenging build in the sense of trying to mesh the newer photoetch details with the older molded Monogram parts, but it was satisfying to see it all come together.  I also added a scratchbuilt basswood box around the torpedo fins.  The interesting torpedo nose art was done by hand using a fine-tipped brush.

Mike

Photos and text © by Mike Reeves