F8F wip shots

[bruce448]

a little something I'm playing around with...
12537 12536

Bruce

[peter12213]

Hell yeah, can't wait for this, great job Bruce!

[Lenop]

I had the pleasure (I was completely thrilled the whole day actually) of seeing one doing amazing fly by's at this year Duxford Flying Legends airshow on Saturday. What an amazing sight and sound. And superbly flown by the pilot, who's name I cannot recall now. "Joker" was his call sign?

Anyway, fantastic airplane, huge prop, can't wait for flying it around myself in FSX!

[Thoe6969]

Can't wait ,been waiting for a native F8F for FSX forever.Screenshots look great.

[mal998]

Great paints as usual, but whose Bearcat? :-)

[bruce448]

Great paints as usual, but whose Bearcat? :-)


Cheers Guys for the Comments,

Lenop, must of been a great sight.


Mal, The Bearcat is the one in production from Vertigo Studios.

Bruce

[BOOM]

:O!!!!<-----Shocked Look,Bruce!! Are you Beta testing for Vertigo Studio's? Is it close to release?
Looks fantastic BTW! Thanks very much for sharing w/t us!
Cheers!!

[Daveroo]

beautiful airplane.....those paint look real nice...i had the plaesue of being at the last mardera cal warbird airshow several years ago..maybbe they started ago..but it was billed at the time as the last one..they had a casa He111..and a F8F we sat on some grass betwwen the ramp and the taxiway...GREAT place to sit.i was shocked they let us sit so close..but the bearcat was right behind us,and it was sorta nosed in at a wierd angle...they fired it up and it blew a flame out of the "tailpipe" ( cant spell exasghst) so long and big it burned the grass and the ensueing grass fire burned up my moms lawnchair...lol...

[Deano]

Hi, Bruce is working is hands with the paintkit to see if it measures up :)

He'll more than likely be joining the beta too.

Expected F8F release date is unknown yet as we are working on a few goodies.

Im sure Bruce will keep you updated.

[noddy]

Looking good, can't wait.

[BOOM]

Hi, Bruce is working is hands with the paintkit to see if it measures up :)

He'll more than likely be joining the beta too.

Expected F8F release date is unknown yet as we are working on a few goodies.

Im sure Bruce will keep you updated.

Cool!!!!!! Looks Great Dean,This aircraft is high on my radar!!

[crashaz]

me too! Kitty Power!!!:applause:

[stansdds]

To me, the paint appears to lack gloss. Come on, the F8F was painted in high gloss paint, not the non-specular paint of early WW II.

[MudMarine]

BearKitty!!!:jump:

[peter12213]

Can we have one of these too please Bruce...

http://i149.photobucket.com/albums/s72/Keithallott/2009%20LSP%20box%20art/FrenchBearcat.jpg
Nice and weathered too please!

[oakfloor]

I am soo wanting this, but I have never seen those giant cans on the end of the cannon, Are this for real? I hope not. Otherwise it's a great plane.

[bruce448]

To me, the paint appears to lack gloss. Come on, the F8F was painted in high gloss paint, not the non-specular paint of early WW II.

the paints are still work in progress at the moment, still trying to get my head around all the layers, yes the bearcat was painted in Gloss paint but due to the fact of the relatively short fuselage the entire back end from the exhausts back got covered in dirt and oil very quickly.

Bruce

[mal998]

1269112690

[DennyA]

Beetle Bomb! Woooot! SOLD!

Love the planes these guys are doing! Drooling over the upcoming Navy jets!

(Though I'm not sure why there's a DC-3 in the works with a decent one in the box and an Aeroplane Heaven version coming from Just Flight...)

[skyhawka4m]

I'd love to see a nice slightly used factory fresh aircraft.....just standard NAVY markings.

[skyhawka4m]

126991269812697

[skyhawka4m]

12703127021270112700

[skyhawka4m]

127061270512704

[skyhawka4m]

127091270812707

[skyhawka4m]

This one I like cause it has a bunch of white stenciling on it....

12710

[skyhawka4m]

http://aerobaticteams.net/images/F8F-Bearcat-42.jpg12711

[skyhawka4m]

12712

[skyhawka4m]

12713

[ColoKent]

...getting this one, the F9F, and the A-7D/K will be no-brainers for me!

Kent

[bruce448]

12712

this one close enough?

12722

still working on the stripes first. then the tail and then the wings

Bruce

[bruce448]

I am soo wanting this, but I have never seen those giant cans on the end of the cannon, Are this for real? I hope not. Otherwise it's a great plane.


Those Giant cans were flash eliminators for the cannons.

Bruce

[alehead]

Having seen one of these at Duxford again and again, it is one to raise your pulse. Great sounds...

This will be lovely in FSX!

One question: Is there any possibility of releasing a clean winged version, no cannon or stores pylons? Most of the current flying Bearcats I saw on airliners.net are clean-winged...

Just a thought...

An amazing eye for detail, this and the P36... beauties...

Andrew

[bruce448]

updated pics of the CO 19th air Group

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/co19th03.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/co19th02.jpg

Bruce

[Deano]

It was our intention to release a clean variant for the air-racer guys, however the Vc and lfight model will remain the same, the only slight differences are the cannons and the racks.

[SADT]

Hi,

that fuselage looks a tad tubby, doesn't it, its so high yet so short.

[peter12213]

I think it looks fine, not an expert on the Bearcat though!

[dswo]

12731

[full]

Looks good to me, but alas I'm no expert either.
12732

[skyhawka4m]

I'm curious......Will they be doing a tall tail variant?

[MDIvey]

Its difficult to tell sometimes form screenshots but it looks as though the forward fuelage side on profile has been blended with a curve into the Windscreen on the model which doesnt look quite right... there is an excellent side on photo posted on previous page (201 - S)... I think the Windscreen just wraps around the forward fuselage sectional curvature. hope you dont mind me making that observation but a great looking model and one I'm looking forward too.

Matt

[BOOM]

Looks fantastic Bruce,Thanks for the update!!:salute:

[oakfloor]

Those Giant cans were flash eliminators for the cannons.

Bruce
Thats the first time I have ever seen those on a bearcat, there ugly and spoil the nice lines IMO.

[peter12213]

I've got to admit I don't like those flash supressors either!

[MudMarine]

It's going to be a blast skoot'n around in this bearkitty!! Looks great to me!!:jump:

[bruce448]

A couple of new shots

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/th_100B-02.jpg (http://s458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/?action=view&current=100B-02.jpg)

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/th_100B-01.jpg (http://s458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/?action=view&current=100B-01.jpg)



Bruce

[d0mokun]

Looks great, Bruce! :ernae:

[crashaz]

How long did the Bearcat serve on the front line carriers? Did not make it to the SCB-27 mods I am betting....

All I have in drydock is the SCB-27 Essex since Michael Davies has a straight deck version. Lets see where it goes and if not... guess I have to go back to original straight deck.

[GrinningJester]

Awesomeness!

Would you treat us to a VC shot too? :D

[stansdds]

Sweet! Now, I'm seeing the shine. :jump:

[BOOM]

Those last shots really show her off nicely Bruce,I downloaded and now they're my desktop ,Beautiful!!!

[Javis]

Great to see a Bearcat coming to FSX ! :jump:

Sure looks superb, Bruce ! :applause:

Tell the Vertigo guys not to fall into the midget pilot trap. The Bearcat is a relatively small aircraft...

RW pilot has to bend his head down to close/open the canopy.... : http://www.airliners.net/photo/Grumman-F8F-2P-Bearcat/1366914/L/

cheers,
jan

[oakfloor]

Great to see a Bearcat coming to FSX ! :jump:

Sure looks superb, Bruce ! :applause:

Tell the Vertigo guys not to fall into the midget pilot trap. The Bearcat is a relatively small aircraft...

RW pilot has to bend his head down to close/open the canopy.... : http://www.airliners.net/photo/Grumman-F8F-2P-Bearcat/1366914/L/

cheers,
jan
Your right, the pilot is too small in those screen shots.

[bruce448]

Glad your liking the shine, as I said earlier they're work in progress and can only get better, as for the pilot I'm sure Dean and the Guys with have the Airfix pilot in order by the time of release, as for shots of the VC "not yet".

Bruce

[Lenop]

Yeah, pilot seems a bit to small.
I would love this livery to recreate the fantastic fly by's as performed @ Duxford airshow.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4077/4798627908_fc69a7af20.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/53308970@N00/4798627908/)

[bruce448]

A couple more

Vietnamese
13026

French
13027

VF-151
13028

Bruce

[sparouty]

Hi Bruce,
This screenshots are beautyful!! I like this model very much.

Just one question : could the shine effect be managed through a texture map?
Times ago I had asked the same question to Dean regarding Hellcat, but Bearcat (as Hellcat) had been very used and weathered during its operational life (I'm thinking in particular about the French ones that I know better than others)... I'm not used to see such brand new F8F with French roundels...
Thanks and regards,
Sylvain

[bruce448]

Hi Bruce,
This screenshots are beautyful!! I like this model very much.

Just one question : could the shine effect be managed through a texture map?
Times ago I had asked the same question to Dean regarding Hellcat, but Bearcat (as Hellcat) had been very used and weathered during its operational life (I'm thinking in particular about the French ones that I know better than others)... I'm not used to see such brand new F8F with French roundels...
Thanks and regards,
Sylvain

Very basically yes both with the alpha on both the main texture sheets and the 2 respective spec layers aswell.

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

awesome!

[bruce448]

Cheers for the comments,

Sylvain, just to let you know on the French vresion I have removed most of the shine, and have started to remove some of the paint.

Bruce

[heywooood]

looks great - you can see Kurt Tanks influence on the design

what a beastie

[BOOM]

Fantastic!!! What are the 3 rivited holes on the side below the canopy? vents maybe?
Love the paint bruce!! Thanks,can't wait for The Big Cat!!!!

[bruce448]

Sylvain, ignore the wings, hows this looking?

13052

Bruce

[Helldiver]

It doesn't look like any F-8-F I ever worked on. The paint is too dull, the exhaust was not unpainted and the pilot was a hell of a lot bigger.

[MudMarine]

Looks great to me!:jump: I guess I realize that it's a virtual aircraft, not like the REAL ones I've worked on.

[Cleartheprop]

It seems the virtual aircraft perfectly matches the real one. (according to the pics below)
The exhaust is unpainted, the pilot doesn't look particularly bigger (only the helmet is bigger... see difference between 2nd and third shot) and the paint shiny effect depends on the lighting in FSX too.
http://www.cleartheprop.com/images/f8f1/Image2.jpg

http://www.cleartheprop.com/images/f8f1/Image3.jpg

http://www.cleartheprop.com/images/f8f1/Image4.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

I wonder since they are going to model a gunless racing variant....will it have a modern pilot?

[sparouty]

Hi Bruce,
It is exactly what I was speaking about!
You're doing a great paint job on this beautiful plane.
Thanks a lot!
S.


Sylvain, ignore the wings, hows this looking?

13052

Bruce

[gajit]

I hope that its the angle of the screen shots but to be honest - the canopy just does not look right to me- could we see a side on shot please?

[bruce448]

I hope that its the angle of the screen shots but to be honest - the canopy just does not look right to me- could we see a side on shot please?


Gajit, here ya go....13073

Bruce

[gajit]

Ah yes - tx bruce - it was an angle thing. Well done :salute:

[SADT]

Sorry Dean,

Wasn't meaning anything against your great model, just noting that the real deal looks a bit tubby (short and tall).

[stansdds]

Helldiver is certainly correct about the stainless steel exhaust port panel. From the factory and in military service, the panel was painted to match the color of the surrounding aluminum skin. It has become very popular to leave this panel unpainted and polished on modern restorations.

F8F in USN service, 1949:

http://www.ibiblio.org/hyperwar/OnlineLibrary/photos/images/g420000/g427668.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

Shine, no shine, glossy, non-glossy........bring it on VS.....I want this plane. If you supply a Bearcat with the same reflection qulaities of the Hellcat I'll be very happy.

[Helldiver]

The airplane you took as a model is not a Navy airplane. The finish is semi-gloss and not shiny. The exhaust plate is left unpainted. You can tell it's civilian aircraft from all of the scratched paint in front of the windscreen. The Navy would not let it be unpainted. The canopy slopes much too fast to be accurate. All the Bearcat pilots I knew wore good old canvas helmets and not a brain bucket. I still say your pilot is too small. He looks like a ten year old. Here’s a picture of Butch Voris sitting in the cockpit.. He pretty much used up all the space and his head is touching the top of the canopy.
13080

[GrinningJester]

Helldiver; check the previous screenshots for glossy, reflective paint.

The latest screenshot is just of a very weathered french indochina livery, which were in fact, quite dull.

[mal998]

I gotta' agree with Helldiver on this one, just for the sake of accuracy. Here are original Grumman factory photos of the Bearcat. Look carefully at the pictures..the angle of the front windscreen needs to be decreased (elongated), and in all my Grumman factory photos all Bearcats are fully painted except for the VNAF version. The pilot needs to be made a bit larger as does the one in the P-36. The SBD pilot might work for both planes, IMHO. Vertigo does a great job on their planes and their willingness to listen to guys like us says a great deal about their commitment to accuracy. Keep up the good work!

13085

13083

13082
13084

[peter12213]

13052


Magnifique!! Just what I was hoping for most, Love the weathering!!! The pilot is too small though I agree, was the same on the P36 too I feel but this doesn't really bother me in the slightest as the exterior and VC's are second to none!

[Helldiver]

When I was in the Navy, airplanes were not allowed to "weather" There was a crewman with a paint pot to cover up such blemishes. Corrosion at sea is a constant worry.

[Cag40Navy]

When I was in the Navy, airplanes were not allowed to "weather" There was a crewman with a paint pot to cover up such blemishes. Corrosion at sea is a constant worry.
My dad told me those kind of storys bout his Vietnam tour and the paint boy going round looking for "weathering".

[sparouty]

Hi everybody!
I agree with you Helldiver, but during the Indochina war French crewmen didn't had enough time for paint...(lol)
Here is some nice photos of the French F8F:
http://www.frenchwings.net/Indochine/gallery/thumbnails.php?album=9

Regards,
S.

[Helldiver]

How the French treated their aircraft is their business. But they were land based and corrosion may not be a problem.
I reworked the canopy, correcting the slope error.
The pilot should be bigger. This was a small aircraft like a J-3 Cub and the pilot wore the aircraft.

13087

[sparouty]

Hi,
I really don't want to argue (mainly because I agree with what it is said), but if corrosion was a serious problem, paint didn't always prevent Bearcat from some kind of "weathering"...
Here is a example of what I'm thinking about::)
http://img7.hostingpics.net/pics/79276Grumman_F8F_2_Bearcat_2.jpg

Once again, Buce, I really love your work, for me both of the "modern airshow" liveries and the "in action" ones are great paintings!:jump:

Regards
S.

[Lateral-G]

I think we may be confusing "paint chipping" with weathering. These two terms are often used interchangeably.

Navy aircraft painted with GSB (glossy sea blue) held up very well to the environment. It was a very tough paint. You rarely saw paint chipping unless it was on land based aircraft flying off coral strips as the Marines did with their corsairs.

Aircraft like the Bearcat, Hellcat, Avenger and Helldiver that flew off carriers didn't experience much, if any chipped paint, especially when painted in GSB. And if they did, Like Helldiver said, it was covered up right away. Salt air environments are very, very corrosive (as I'm sure all you Navy aviation guys can attest to) and it's not permitted to let exposed metals like aluminum, magnesium or steel be open to it for very long.

Other "weathering" such as exhaust stains, oil stains, fuel stains, etc. could be apparent but it's not likely you'll ever see bare metal.

-G-

[ndicki]

(Saw this thread in the side bar)

If it's of any interest, just look at photos of French Spitfires once they'd left the RAF and reformed the French Air Force. They are easily the roughest-looking Spits I can think of, whether based in Europe or the Far East. Maintenance does not seem to be something the French excel at...

Just my two-pennyworth!

[Helldiver]

Here the pilot is about the right size. Though an "L" on the tail for the USS Leyte, CV-32. would be nice.

13089

[Cleartheprop]

http://img7.hostingpics.net/pics/79276Grumman_F8F_2_Bearcat_2.jpg
It seems that the only F8F involved in combat were the French air force Bearcats. It explains why the French F8F were not kept as fresh as US navy maiden aircrafts. Wikipedia source. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Grumman_F8F_Bearcat)

[gajit]

Here the pilot is about the right size. Though an "L" on the tail for the USS Leyte, CV-32. would be nice.

13089

I must agree with you Helldiver re the pilot size - your image is more convincing.

[Lateral-G]

Here the pilot is about the right size.

13089

I agree as well. The Bearcat was not a big airplane. It was designed to have an airframe just big enough to hold the largest engine.

-G-

[Deano]

http://www.cleartheprop.com/images/f8f1/Image4.jpg

From the photos / elaborated photo chops

so whats the pilot to be, 6'6 and build like a brick sh@t house or a midget.

Guys please please please.. no more pilot should be this, pilot should be that.. he was addressed days ago regarding scale but isnt in the F8F beta.

no wonder less and less dev teams are hesitating to post shots of upcoming products.

[mal998]

Dean,
I understand why, as a developer, these kinds of discussions can become a real annoyance.

I think that these comments are prompted by this group's desire to see this Bearcat be the best it can be. http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon14.gif

It is more likely than not, that every one of us will buy the little darlin'! I know I will, as I have purchased all of Vertigo's models thus far.

It is in this spirit of wanting to help rather than criticising that these sugestions are given.

With that, I will now shut up and let the fine builders at Vertigo finish in Peace. http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon22.gif

BR's,
mal

[Deano]

Hi Mal, I do like discussions like this don't get me wrong, but sometimes going over the same old thing (not directed at you) is ermm repetitive.

I frequent these boards many times a day and do note everything that people are saying

[mal998]

Roger that Dean...

It's gotta' get a bit frustrating every now and then, but don't sweat the small stuff! http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon12.gif

Full speed ahead! http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/icons/icon14.gif

[Helldiver]

Now this looks like the F8-F13120 that I know and love.

[bruce448]

13121

contemplating doing this one though

13122


Bruce

[MudMarine]

When are people ever going to get the idea that pilots come in diffrent sizes?

I like it I'm going to buy it.

[Rezabrya]

Dean, I too would get sick of all the people who think they know best. I think it looks great!

[noddy]

Another great paint Bruce, well done.

Well this model is on my shopping list for sure.

[BOOM]

No Doubt this will be another Huge hit for VertigoStudios,I can't wait to see the VC!!!

[gajit]

Dean, I too would get sick of all the people who think they know best. I think it looks great!

Us "people" are at least thinking and responding honestly.

If developers dont want feedback before they launch a product then they should also think about posting in advance.

I have every confidence in Vertigo Studios products but no one is perfect (for proof look at my repaints!! LOL)

[skyhawka4m]

When I was in the Navy, airplanes were not allowed to "weather" There was a crewman with a paint pot to cover up such blemishes. Corrosion at sea is a constant worry.


coming out of the "new" NAVY...this no longer holds true. You need an act of congress to get somethign painted at squaron level now....and the includes corrosion control.

[MudMarine]

Us "people" are at least thinking and responding honestly.

If developers dont want feedback before they launch a product then they should also think about posting in advance.

I have every confidence in Vertigo Studios products but no one is perfect (for proof look at my repaints!! LOL)

It's not about giving feed back, it's about HOW the feed back is given.

[BOOM]

Really nice vid of some F8F'S@ Planes of fame airshow 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bY6KRKHbk8

[gajit]

It's not about giving feed back, it's about HOW the feed back is given.

OK then Mud - who above would you say has been rude on this thread? I read it that everyone has just tried to be helpful.

[MudMarine]

OK then Mud - who above would you say has been rude on this thread? I read it that everyone has just tried to be helpful.

Did I use the word "rude"? No. I read it as being "critical", get the diffrence? There is a thing we have here called a PM, use it if you want to be "helpful". This thread my not be that bad but you know as well as I do that other treads, at other times have been more hurtful than helpful.

To anyone in general: Are you an artist? Have you ever created anything? Then have someone stand there and say something or write something that picks it apart. Do you know what it feels like? What these guys do is art. Most artists develope a thick skin but that still doesn't mean they don't have feelings and passion about what they have created. A PM saying, hey I love what you are doing but I noticed such and such, what do you think? Isn't that more helpful? It is to me!

[gajit]

I face critics every day - "everyone is an expert" Im sure most of us do in our professional life - and from the wife!

[Cleartheprop]

Really nice vid of some F8F'S@ Planes of fame airshow 2009
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7bY6KRKHbk8

Very nice video, thanks! :ernae:

[dswo]

Anticipation is building...:jump:

[bruce448]

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/VF-151.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/Thai.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/French.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/COAG19.jpg

Bruce

[gajit]

Great work Bruce. :ernae:

[bruce448]

One more not so weathered Frenchie,

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/Limousin.jpg

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

Outstanding work Bruce!

Do you by chance know if there will be any weapons options? Some of the foreign birds carried wings tanks and was kinda hoping we'd see that option.

[bruce448]

Outstanding work Bruce!

Do you by chance know if there will be any weapons options? Some of the foreign birds carried wings tanks and was kinda hoping we'd see that option.


skyhawka4m,
Thank-you, as for your question Deans the man to ask about that, I'm sure he'll answer it when he pops his head in.

Bruce

[stansdds]

Oooooh, shiny. :jump:

[Deano]

yes with a load editor, ie release/remove bombs, release/remove fuselage tank will effect the weight of the aircraft in realtime.


Outstanding work Bruce!

Do you by chance know if there will be any weapons options? Some of the foreign birds carried wings tanks and was kinda hoping we'd see that option.

[MudMarine]

BOING, DOUBLE BOING!! I'm very excited!!:jump:

[BOOM]

yes with a load editor, ie release/remove bombs, release/remove fuselage tank will effect the weight of the aircraft in realtime.

Ohhh it only get's better!!!!!!!!!!!:jump:
Outstanding!!!

[Bone]

Now this looks like the F8-F13120 that I know and love.

OK, but it's so damn blurry how could you tell??.....LOL. Hey, just kidding around and having a laugh about it all......

[delta_lima]

Outstanding WIP of both the model and paints. Bravo on the excruciating accuracy effort - I love what I see.

Bruce - I love the weathered paints - can't paint the oil stains while you're flying, and flying is what we do here, so some grime is good by me. Yours and Morton's paints really bring FS planes to life, so two huge thumbs up.

Deano - thanks for this model - will put the shekels out for this one, to be sure. Was looking to get FSX soon, and this model is going to push me off the fence - at least as an alternative to my FS1955 install. BTW - I'm all for hard shell helmets - they were standard by around 1950, and certainly at least as an accurate reflection of the headgearn worn by it's USN, RTAF, and FAF pilots time-wise over the entire length of it's operational career - never mind what's most common in today's airshow circuit.

http://www.456fis.org/THE%20HISTORY%20OF%20SURVIVAL%20EQUIPMENT/HELMET-4.jpg

USN H-2 Helmet, 1949. Anyway, if it's a leather/cotton only helmet option, I certainly won't be sweating it.

Looking forward to the progress - this will be a fantastic release.

cheers,

dl

[Helldiver]

1328713286The following shows what a real man looks like sitting in a Bearcat's Cockpit and not the ten year old girl.
Plus as can be seen the canopy slopes too fast.
The canopy on the FS9 French version was more accurate.

[MudMarine]

It appears to me he has the seat raised, he's sitting on something. Because if he's not, he's going to have a sore neck and a bruise on his head when he closes the canopy.

Wish we could get past this, it's been said over and over..........I'm sure Deano gets it at this point. It's like kicking a dead horse and yelling at it to get up!

[Bone]

It appears to me he has the seat raised, he's sitting on something. Because if he's not, he's going to have a sore neck and a bruise on his head when he closes the canopy.

Wish we could get past this, it's been said over and over..........I'm sure Deano gets it at this point. It's like kicking a dead horse and yelling at it to get up!

It does look like these pilots are sitting higher than they normally would be when flying. Maybe it was posturing for the camera shot. If you look at the pic with the French guy in it, you can plainly see that the top of his head is actually higher than the top of the canopy bubble at it's highest point. He would have to lower himself a good 2-3 inches to be able to fly without constantly hitting his head on the canopy.

[Helldiver]

They elevate the seats as high as possible to look over the nose. They have to duck their heads when the canopy closes.

[Bone]

They elevate the seats as high as possible to look over the nose. They have to duck their heads when the canopy closes.

That would make perfect sense when taxiing a taildragger, but once you're airborne the seat would most likely be lowered.

As an example, when we do CAT II approach's we have to move our seats forward and up to align with the CAT II guide bars that are built into the center post between the two windshields. This is for the sole purpose of looking over the nose in extreme low-vis conditions...you couldn't fly like this normally because it's such an awkward position.

[MudMarine]

That's my point. Makes the pilot "appear" larger than he actually maybe. The one photo, no matter if he ducks, it looks like his head would still be banging off the canopy. I can't imagine that would be comfortable. The pilots head must have felt like a ping pong ball!

[Lateral-G]

As an example, when we do CAT II approach's we have to move our seats forward and up to align with the CAT II guide bars that are built into the center post between the two windshields. This is for the sole purpose of looking over the nose in extreme low-vis conditions...you couldn't fly like this normally because it's such an awkward position.

The C-17 has a 'crystal ball' mounted on the center pillar to align the pilot's eyes with the HUD. Nothing more than a clear, plexi globe with a ring on one side and a dot on the other. Center the dot in the ring and you're golden....

[Helldiver]

I haven't the foggiest idea what a "CAT II" is but I do know that in Navy aircraft in WWII they kept the seat high just so they could spot the Japs. No hiding under the instrument panel for Navy pilots.

13297

[skyhawka4m]

ahhhhh...the good ole days........

13300


I know I love this one and the new one will be awesome additon to a great freeware. Even if the pilot is small.

[MenendezDiego]

CAT-II is a Category-II (2) ILS Approach

[Helldiver]

Menendezdiego - You do and you'll clean it up.

[Bone]

Menendezdiego - You do and you'll clean it up.

LMAO. OK, that made slogging through the issue about the size of the pilot worth it. Too funny.

[heywooood]

seat jacks where common on all Grumman fighters...for carrier approaches and taxiing....

the pilot could quickly raise the seat a few inches by use of a lever - my understanding is that it had 2 positions - 'raised' - and 'lowered'

All Grumman fighters where known for 2 things primarily - strength (iron works) and ergonomics.

a word Roy Grumman didn't use or even know about - but at his direction - his planes all had roomy cockpits with easy controls that were laid to hand in the most coordinated and comfortable way by design.

should the pilot appear to be rattling around in the 'pit like a bean in a coffee can? No

but neither should he be crammed into the pit - touching the glass simultaneously with his face, shoulders and back.

Photo's are helpful if you know the exact dimensions of the pilot maybe...but pilots in the WWII came in all sizes and if you have a picture of a 6'4 250lb pilot in one Bearcat and another with a picture of Barney Fife in the cockpit...well you get the picture

[heywooood]

may I now say that I love the look of this Bearcat model!

Grumman built a Navy Gunfighter to burn the barn down with this aircraft.

Salute to the modeling team and the beautiful subject they are recreating for FSX

[MenendezDiego]

LMAO. OK, that made slogging through the issue about the size of the pilot worth it. Too funny.

I don't get it

[crashaz]

look up facecious

[delta_lima]

Just an observation from seeing Bruce's latest shot (paint rocks, btw!!!)

I don't know if it's a texture mapping issue or what ... but compared to Mirage's great real world shots, the bare metal exhaust plate seems a bit out of proportion. The length seems bang on, but the height of the real one looks greater than the the one as seen in Bruce's last side-view. The height seems to be good as far as aligning with the exhaust stacks, so the only thing I can think of is that the exhaust stacks are a bit small? Don't know. I'm just observing the exhaust plate seems to come up higher up the forward fuselage.

Again, could be angles on the real photo, don't know. Just a tiny observation - looking great, though!!

dl

[Helldiver]

No U.S. Navy aircraft ever sported a stainless steel exhaust plate. That's something that civilian operators put on. They apparently don't have the crew to clean off the exhaust soot or to clean the oil off the belly.

[peter12213]

And most importantly it looks better buffed up to a brilliant shine!

[Deano]

we have some screen updates inbound on our forums tonight for those that are interested.

and a couple of specials :)

[BOOM]

Sweet!!!! I'll be tuned in!!!!:jump:

[Deano]

a teaser will be shown here and the others will be directly on our forums.

I see your all (4) are waiting patiently.. shes a coming..

[skyhawka4m]

I'nm waiting too sir!

[bruce448]

I'nm waiting too sir!


So am I

Bruce

[MudMarine]

I'm in!!:jump::jump::jump:

[bruce448]

the next incarnation Gulfhawk IV (still got a bit to go on this one)

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/Gh00.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/Gh01.jpg

and a vc shot

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/Gh02.jpg

Sorry I know it's not what you were all waiting for......


Bruce

[gajit]

Wow - just superb :ernae:

[skyhawka4m]

nice!!!!! :salute:

[modelr]

I'nm waiting too sir!


Count me in! :jump:

And I have to have that Gulfhawk IV paint.

[Quicksand]

Lookin better all the time, Dean! Count me in!

[d0mokun]

Hi chaps,

Wait no longer and instead enjoy these shots.

Many things have been revised, most notably the pilot's stature, canopy (both parts) and tail.

Best
Dan.

[BOOM]

WOW!!!!!!!!!! Beautiful!!!!!!
Thank You!!!!:jump:

[skyhawka4m]

simply amazing.....outstanding!!

:applause:

[heywooood]

I loved the old F3F-3 Gulf Hawk...I remember building the big 1/32 scale monogram kit when I was a wee grommet..you could pull the prop out about 1/8" and engage the gears that raised and lowered the main landing gear.

I hope to one day see all of Roy Grummans famous planes in FSX

[MDIvey]

Thanks for going to the trouble of the rework on the F8F... It looked good before but now... a must have for the hangar.

Matt

[stansdds]

That's really looking good.

Will there be complex engine and systems management?

Will there be a sound set made from an actual F8F Bearcat?

I won't ask when it will be released as the standard answer, at least in the Il2 sim world, is "two weeks, be sure". :icon_lol:

[peter12213]

The pilot's now too big .... Naaa not really it looks superb lol!
Can't wait to buy her now!:salute:

[noddy]

Oustanding job. Welldone.

[Helldiver]

Examine the two photos and pick out what canopy looks real.


13410

[MudMarine]

Examine the two photos and pick out what canopy looks real.


13410

I pick the option that says "Give it a rest"!

[bruce448]

Examine the two photos and pick out what canopy looks real.


13410


you must remember that I am using a first production test model (which has neither sound or gauges)that hasn't even seen a beta tester let alone finished being modeled yet. I am sure that Deano and his bunch of merry men have taken all sugestions in, for the final build.

Bruce

[d0mokun]

Hi chaps,

Bruce is correct- please do not keep bringing up the old model. As seen in the last screenshots, the issues are now fixed.

Best
Dan.

[Helldiver]

MudMarine, I worked on these aircraft and flew with them and as long as I live, I want to make sure that they are potrayed correctly. It's important to me.
As a Marine, I would never criticise how you clean your gun or lace up your boots.

[d0mokun]

I don't think anyone is questioning your intent, Helldiver.

As a result of your input the issues have been rectified, as per above.

All the best..
Dan.

[Deano]

ok time for me to step in here.

The old canopy has been corrected, the one you've edited is the old canopy.

The new canopy has been built around photos that have been interlaced onto the new canopy within 3d studio max. No more alterations will be made to the canopy Im afraid end of story, we was working till 0300 hrs gmt this morning on the new alterations.

unfortunately we're not able to work to .5 of a mm, please state a studio that does...

on a personal note all of vstudios team are now restricted from posting on SOH regarding the F8F. We're working from photos on all angles, we've ditched the Grumman drawings and some people are simply not happy.

Regards

[gajit]

Fairly put.

I for one am have my credit card no waiting to be associated with this product now :salute:

[mal998]

This thread illustrates why most developers keep their work to themselves until they are ready for release.

[BOOM]

Bummer!!! :(

[MudMarine]

MudMarine, I worked on these aircraft and flew with them and as long as I live, I want to make sure that they are potrayed correctly. It's important to me.
As a Marine, I would never criticise how you clean your gun or lace up your boots.

Got you point a long time ago, everyone has. That doesn't mean I don't respect it!

[MudMarine]

ok time for me to step in here.

The old canopy has been corrected, the one you've edited is the old canopy.

The new canopy has been built around photos that have been interlaced onto the new canopy within 3d studio max. No more alterations will be made to the canopy Im afraid end of story, we was working till 0300 hrs gmt this morning on the new alterations.

unfortunately we're not able to work to .5 of a mm, please state a studio that does...

on a personal note all of vstudios team are now restricted from posting on SOH regarding the F8F. We're working from photos on all angles, we've ditched the Grumman drawings and some people are simply not happy.

Regards

I don't blame you! Makes me sad to see that but I understand.

[clmooring]

I really appreciate developers sharing their work in progress. I very much enjoy seeing what is in the works and consider it a real treat. It would be a real loss if developers did stop post WIP shots.

[gajit]

This thread illustrates why most developers keep their work to themselves until they are ready for release.


True and that is OK so long as they have a good strong team of beta testers who are not just "wow, super, lovely" yes men who are not honest and diligent in their approach to the task.

[stansdds]

This thread illustrates why most developers keep their work to themselves until they are ready for release.
Yeah, but by not sharing developmental stage shots an aircraft can be released with glaring errors and omissions. I'm really happy that the shots were posted here and corrections made before the release. I would think a developer would prefer it that way.

[roger-wilco-66]

This thread illustrates why most developers keep their work to themselves until they are ready for release.

I think we as users or potential buyers have a serious responsibility here. I appreciate that developers step out and listen to us, and I think that therefore the evolving issues of a devolpment should be solved in a more professional manner, on both sides.
VS took Helldivers (ond others) suggestions seriously, and I think that is great and it will add to the quality of the product. If they had kept their work to themselves there might have been a flaw in the outcome.
I just think for us "professional users" that this is could be a future platform to influence the work of "professional developers" without being dedicated beta testers. We, on both sides, should keep that in mind.

My 2 ct
Mark

[MudMarine]

I think we as users or potential buyers have a serious responsibility here. I appreciate that developers step out and listen to us, and I think that therefore the evolving issues of a devolpment should be solved in a more professional manner, on both sides.
VS took Helldivers (ond others) suggestions seriously, and I think that is great and it will add to the quality of the product. If they had kept their work to themselves there might have been a flaw in the outcome.
I just think for us "professional users" that this is could be a future platform to influence the work of "professional developers" without being dedicated beta testers. We, on both sides, should keep that in mind.

My 2 ct
Mark

Agreed! Like I've said over and over again, there are ways of dealing with questions; example, send a PM to the developer. Tearing someone's work a part in a public forum is just down right rude to me! JMO!!!!

PS If anyone cares, I'm done kicking this dead horse! Give me a Bearkitty to fly!! :-)

[delta_lima]

Sad to hear of the banning progress shots here.

I hope my post regarding the exhaust plate didn't break the camel's back - I truly meant only to make an observation. If I offended, please accept my apologies. In truth, I'm sure no one here at SOH has anything but pure intentions - that of helping further the work. That said, internet posts are pretty mono-dimensional, and can often obscure true intent - so I can certainly appreciate if the modelling team got frustrated.

Regardless, best of luck with the model - and from where I'm standing, had it been released as it was at the start of this thread, I would already have been impressed. I guess I'm a "glass half full" type of person. I can only imagine how good the final project will be - all the best, and thanks for giving us this brief window into the beauty of what's coming!.

dl

[heywooood]

Deano - I hope you will consider an alternative.

I can see not wanting your crew to respond directly to criticism of your work in progress screenshots as it can waste valuable time

but please - do not stop posting the screenshots!

I understand that criticism can come in all forms - from well informed and supported points of concern posted with regard to the developers....all the way down to unsupported and ill mannered rants. I further understand that it can be difficult to refrain from replying to some of the latter...

But - if you work in a bubble with no objective viewpoint you might create something that has provable inaccuracies built in, where on the other hand - if you can post your WIPS, and then stand back while the tempest rages - you can ultimately sift through the useful posts and utterly disregard the waste product...and glean some useful information.

Pacific aircraft of WWII - no matter which nation they were built by - seem to have the most visceral fans and self proclaimed aficionados of all the flying machine genres extant

Good luck sir - and my condolences on your campaign to satisfy this group

we mean well - we just know not what a pita we can be sometimes.

[Cag40Navy]

Please reconsider Deano.

[Helldiver]

I want to apologize for any problems I caused Vertigo or for any wrong I may have done to anyone at SOH, I am heartily sorry.
In my zealous effort to make sure that the aircraft I was involved in is done accurately. There is too much about WWII that is distorted and it's a shame. So I try to correct things I feel strongly about and for that I apologize.

[stansdds]

Same with me, my criticism is meant to be constructive, not hurtful. I apologize to anyone who was offended by my posts.

[ColoKent]

....at the ready!

[bruce448]

13604


13605

Bruce

[Bone]

13604


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Bruce

Bravo. Those are spectacular.

[gajit]

Exceptional Bruce - great work :jump:

[OleBoy]

13604


13605

Bruce

Superb repaints!! At the rate you're going on the paints, the sale is almost a done deal :salute:

[crashaz]

Holy cow!!! Love that formation shot!! :salute:

[BOOM]

I really love how VStudios pays close attention to detail like the wing structure that you can see when the wings are folded,Nice job!

[OleBoy]

Not meaning to spam this thread, I can't resist coming back here to see the latest. Bruce, those last pictures just well, make my jaw drop!! Is there any chance to see them in higher resolution? I would love to have them as my desktop back ground.

[jankees]

oh man, those last shots are great!
well done, Bruce!!

[bruce448]

Not meaning to spam this thread, I can't resist coming back here to see the latest. Bruce, those last pictures just well, make my jaw drop!! Is there any chance to see them in higher resolution? I would love to have them as my desktop back ground.

OleBoy, pm sent.


http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/2010-7-25_15-38-4-865.jpg

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/2010-7-25_2-12-8-55.jpg

[OleBoy]

Set as my desktop. The higher rez shots really bring out all your efforts.
...To Dean and Crew. Great job on the model!!

[stansdds]

Credit card standing by!

[MudMarine]

Any closer to touch down?

[Pips]

So did Corky Meyer, test pilot for Grumman. He put his thoughts down on paper in the August 1998 issue of Flight Journal. Read them here:
http://findarticles.com/p/articles/mi_qa3897/is_199808/ai_n8826530/

To say that he was mightly impressed in an understatement. :)

[skyhawka4m]

Well I think we've shot our selves in the foot here as it has gotten very quiet from VS. Its sad but....I look forward to this plane in a big way.

[crashaz]

Not sure on that... they are posting in other threads... they just are probably busy with other projects. Lets not make nothing into something.

Everybody rejoice.... flying Bearcat!! :jump:

[Deano]

We're currently working on the load outs for the F8F..

as an added bonus we're...

enabling you to remove the gun ports and also racks from the wings for the air-racer kind of guy.

Allowing you to choose, rockets / bombs / fuel tanks.

Increase / decrease munitions which in turn will also increase / decrease weight.

Removal of the pilot.

Deployable weapons pack (which should allow for ground pounding missions, as a seperate addon)

In addition to that we're completing the C47 then onto the DC3, completing the F9F and FJ Fury and F9F Cougar.

Theres also a few additional aircraft that I havent mentioned.. these will be announced with a screen-shots.

[mal998]

(Fellas, this is not meant to be a thread hijack! if I need to take it to a new thread please let me know)

Dean, an FJ Fury? ...Oh tell me it's gonna' be the the FJ-4B...pulleeze! The FJ-4B was the definitive and sexiest one of the lot. Man that thing looks like it's moving when it's standing still

14125

[Deano]

good guess that indeed is correct Mal


(Fellas, this is not meant to be a thread hijack! if I need to take it to a new thread please let me know)

Dean, an FJ Fury? ...Oh tell me it's gonna' be the the FJ-4B...pulleeze! The FJ-4B was the definitive and sexiest one of the lot. Man that thing looks like it's moving when it's standing still

14125

[stansdds]

We're currently working on the load outs for the F8F..

as an added bonus we're...

enabling you to remove the gun ports and also racks from the wings for the air-racer kind of guy.

Allowing you to choose, rockets / bombs / fuel tanks.

Increase / decrease munitions which in turn will also increase / decrease weight.

Removal of the pilot.

Deployable weapons pack (which should allow for ground pounding missions, as a seperate addon)

In addition to that we're completing the C47 then onto the DC3, completing the F9F and FJ Fury and F9F Cougar.

Theres also a few additional aircraft that I havent mentioned.. these will be announced with a screen-shots.
:applause::applause::applause:

[mal998]

good guess that indeed is correct Mal

You 'da man! Superb choice!

[MudMarine]

OK, BEARCAT THREAD!!!:engel016::icon_lol::icon_lol:

I'm getting to the point I can't sleep at night thinking about flying this plane.........!!!:jump:

[Deano]

sorry Mud she shouldn't be to much longer now..





"2 weeks for sure"

[MudMarine]

Oh God two more weeks of sleepless nights and bearkitty dreams!

[Deano]

Oh God two more weeks of sleepless nights and bearkitty dreams!

I'll upload you some additional screenshots tonight Mud with a couple of bombs and rockets, gimme a couple of hours.

[MudMarine]

I'll upload you some additional screenshots tonight Mud with a couple of bombs and rockets, gimme a couple of hours.

TEASE!!

[Deano]

haha :salute:

[skyhawka4m]

Deano....outstanding choice on the FJ4 variant. When my father was on the Forrestal for its commissioning he had VF-84 onboard and have always wanted to do the paint schem from that unit. This is gonna be awesome!

[Deano]

If you can get me some colour photos of it I'll make sure it gets sent out to you.


Deano....outstanding choice on the FJ4 variant. When my father was on the Forrestal for its commissioning he had VF-84 onboard and have always wanted to do the paint schem from that unit. This is gonna be awesome!

[bruce448]

If you can get me some colour photos of it I'll make sure it gets sent out to you.



14143


Bruce

[Bone]

Where the heck am I going to find time to fly all of the planes that are coming out?! Something has to go! I can't quit the job, cuz I need the money to buy more planes...hmmm, I better call my girlfriend and give her the bad news. *sigh*.

[noddy]

Don't know which causes more trouble FSX or the misses????

[SADT]

Hi, I know this is OT,

But what was the fastest variant of the FJ Fury, and will you be modeling it?

[skyhawka4m]

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Bruce


Exactly and they also have a fuselage band. I'll try to get a scan or something done for you.

[bruce448]

VNAF

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/VNAF.jpg

[bruce448]

VF-61

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/VF-61.jpg

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

wow!!! I think I've noticed something very interesting in these two shots.......short and tall tails? If I'm correct that is awesome!!!

[stansdds]

F8F-1 and F8F-2. :jump:

Might want to double check the orientation of the aircraft codes on the starboard wing of VF-61.

[bruce448]

wow!!! I think I've noticed something very interesting in these two shots.......short and tall tails? If I'm correct that is awesome!!!

Correct



F8F-1 and F8F-2. :jump:

Might want to double check the orientation of the aircraft codes on the starboard wing of VF-61.

The C is wrong well spotted.

Bruce

[Deano]

http://www.vertigostudios.co.uk/files/F8F_pics/f8f_ingame5.jpg

[skyhawka4m]

wow......I am loving this more and more with each and every shot.


Are the pylons removable?

[bruce448]

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/VF-61-02.jpg

revised wing textures (with Non-slip added).

Bruce

[skyhawka4m]

awesome and the gun barrel shape look much better also.

[gajit]

This is gonna be the best yet by VS - well done :ernae:

[stansdds]

:applause:

[bruce448]

USNR Glenview 1951

http://i458.photobucket.com/albums/qq305/WAFU448/USNR_Glenview.jpg

[noddy]

Just wonderful.

[d0mokun]

Are the pylons removable?

In a word, yes.

IN more than one word: a full load editor is included, as you see in the screenshot. Everything can be mixed up and loaded individually. Weights affect the aircraft as they are loaded. Even things such as ammo weight differences (M3 versus M2) have been factored in, as has the exact amount of ammo each aircraft can carry.

For the repainters, a very simple system means that the aircraft will be automatically configured with the correct weapons and outfit based on what is written in the CFG.

The tug can also be driven around if you fancy a bit of 'towing simulator' time.

Dan.

[skyhawka4m]

hint hint....

14952

[hammer353]

Nice, is there a release date yet and how is the panther coming along?

[Deano]

The Panther is coming along at a good pace, regarding release date for the F8F is yet to be decided - simply because the new framework will power our other products so we need to get things right with it. This is not to say it will be fool proof :wavey:




Nice, is there a release date yet and how is the panther coming along?

[delta_lima]

The shots really show off what an outstanding product this is shaping up to become.

Question: with the Hellcat, I've noticed it's markedly heavier on frames than other FS models - how will the Bearcat likely compare? I know it could be my machine is a bit slow, but all things being equal, I'm curious about how this one will be perform fps wise ...

Again - great job, and many thanks!!

dl

[d0mokun]

Hi DL,

The F8F will likely run far better on any system compared to the F6F.

Best
Dan.

[roger-wilco-66]

Hi DL,

The F8F will likely run far better on any system compared to the F6F.

Best
Dan.


Why?

(that's a technical question, not the beginning of rant)

Greets,
Mark

[Deano]

The F8F has been built with FPS in mind so everything should be just fine, our P36 should be a good testament to that.

[delta_lima]

The F8F has been built with FPS in mind so everything should be just fine, our P36 should be a good testament to that.


That (and DoMokun's) answers my question perfectly. I'm not complaining about the F6F, it was my first FSX addon, so initially I thought "oh no, what I done - I don't have the PC to run this sim" - but since the other addons run better, I've just chalked it up to that one being a bit heavier to run - at least on my wee box. And I accept that, since most pc's will be stronger than mine.

That the F8F will run smoother just makes my day!!!

thanks to all,

dl

[bruce448]

VMF-12

15092 15093

Bruce

[Cleartheprop]

Fan-tas-tic! :ernae:

[gajit]

Lovely plumeage :ernae: Im hoping that i wont get the stutters with this one like wot I had with the dauntless. The Hellcat and P-36 are super smooth :salute:

[Deano]

Hi Guys, just a little something to keep your interests up :

From you know who Mr Mirage, excellent work in which im a big fan.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uOZcXEMJx6E

[MudMarine]

Didn't need that to peak my interest! It's always been high! That pit is sweeeeet!:jump:

[stiz]

looks fantastic!! :jump:

If i may, not sure if its just the vid or my eyes, but the big metal thing with a dail to the right of the gunsight looks a little blurry compared to everything else :engel016:

[Deano]

thats the blower so we don't mist up the canopy in flight

[MudMarine]

So when I'm panting and drooling in the pit, the blower will help un-fog the windscreen?

[Deano]

lol yeah :-)


So when I'm panting and drooling in the pit, the blower will help un-fog the windscreen?

[skyhawka4m]

wow!!! I also noticed the UD tailcoded aircraft I suggested...thank you!

WHEN?!?!?!?

[Deano]

We're soon to test out the firing capabilities ie rockets and droppables (if theres such a word)

[Helldiver]

Not to make a big deal out of it but all the Navy's Flight Exhibition Team (later called the Blue Angels) and all the F-8s we had on the carrier never had the second brace on the back of the canopy. The only one I ever saw was when Grumman pilot flew the prototype down to Jacksonville. Will it be available sans brace for us purists?

[skyhawka4m]

Not to make a big deal out of it but all the Navy's Flight Exhibition Team (later called the Blue Angels) and all the F-8s we had on the carrier never had the second brace on the back of the canopy. The only one I ever saw was when Grumman pilot flew the prototype down to Jacksonville. Will it be available sans brace for us purists?


Here's a Blue with the second brace....and this is a late Blues shot since it carries the unit badge.


15586
http://www.sim-outhouse.com/sohforums/images/misc/pencil.png

[VCN-1]

The one at the National Museum of Naval Aviation seems to have the second brace.

http://www.airliners.net/photo/USA---Navy/Grumman-F8F-2-Bearcat/1492467/L/

VCN-1

[gajit]

The latest video at the VS website is superb for showing how excellent the cockpit looks - well done deano and team :salute:

[mal998]

It appears the earlier models did not have the brace and the later models did have the brace...observe the Grumman factory photos (first pic'44) second pic a dash 2

Judging from a few of Bruce's screenies over at VS's website, looks like they're spot on with their dash-1 w/o brace and dash-2 with brace...well done.
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