Grumman F9F Panther - USMC VMF-311 Tomcats - 1/72 Scale Diecast Metal Model by Amercom

1:72 Scale  Diecast Metal  - Grumman F9F Panther - USMC VMF-311 Tomcats – Length: 5"  Wingspan: 5.5”

This Panther model is a single seat plane, the cockpit is glue shut and it includes one pilot figure. The landing gear is fixed in the extended position. A display stand is included.

This is really a "no-play" model or a "display-only" model. It is mostly metal and very heavy. It also has a number of antennas which look great but are very fragile. If you have small kids that like to play with your models, save yourself some frustration (and money) and wait till later to get a model like this one. The package is labeled as not suitable for children under 14.

The maker of this model did a good job with this model, specifically the color scheme and the markings are very crisp and clear. The panel lines and hatches are very nicely done (engraved).

The packaging of these models is very minimal, nothing more than a simple blister pack with the model sandwiched between two transparent plastic shells. The packaging is really best described as "disposable"; although this is done in part to keep costs down, it nevertheless keeps the model safe and secure.The packaging might be low cost, but it is quite sturdy and serves its purpose well.

The pack measures 7 inches by 7 inches by 3.25 inches.

The Grumman F9F Panther is one of the United States Navy's first successful carrier-based jet fighters, as well as Grumman’s first jet fighter. A single-engined, straight-winged day fighter, it was armed with four 20 mm (0.79 in) cannons and could carry a wide assortment of air-to-ground munitions.

The Panther was used extensively by the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps in the Korean War. It was also the first jet aircraft used by the Blue Angels aerobatics demonstration team, from 1949 through late 1954. The aircraft was exported to Argentina and was the first jet used by the Argentine Naval Aviation.

Total F9F production was 1,382. The design evolved into the swept wing Grumman F-9 Cougar.