Hobby Master Archive

Hobby Master 1/48 Air Power Series HA7002 Brewster B339-E “Buffalo” NF-O, W8138 RNZAF 488 Squadron, Singapore, late 1941

The Brewster B339-E Buffalo is a special plane with many unique features. This little plane had a rather dismal history and part of it could have been because there were too many improvements but the two or three necessary improvements weren’t. Hobby Master has recreated this airplane in great 1/48 scale detail and accuracy. It is definitely an important part of aviation history regardless of its less than stellar performance and history. The B339-E is one plane that will stand out in any collection, its unusual shape and profile are sure to attract attention.

Accurate 1/48 scale Professionally painted Pad applied markings Opening canopy Movable rudder For the first time Retractable Landing Gear The Brewster F2A-2 was modified for export with the RAF ordering over 200. The RAF designated the plane the B339 Mk. I “Buffalo” and “Buffalo” became associated with this Brewster aircraft. 167 land based “E” versions were shipped to Singapore and Northern Malaya to equip RAF and Commonwealth squadrons. B339-Es were quite adequate until they encountered the vastly superior Japanese Zero. The pilot of the RNZAF NF-O was Flight Officer Noel C. Sharp who downed 3 aircraft and damaged 2 bombers. F/O Sharp was killed in 1942 flying a Hurricane.

You will find a white piece of plastic with your model that looks like a fork. This is included to help you press the main strut of the landing gear into its position. Personally I just used my fingers THESE ARE PRE-PRODUCTION

Power plant: One Wright R-1820-G105A Cyclone nine-cylinder, single-row air-cooled radial, rated at 1100 hp for takeoff.

Performance: Maximum speed - 324 mph at 21,000 ft, 313 mph at 13,000 ft. Cruising speed - 256 mph. Initial climb rate - 2600 ft/min. an altitude of 15,000 ft could be reached in 6.3 minutes.

Service ceiling: 30,675 ft.

Weights: 4479 lbs empty, 6500 lbs gross, 6840 lbs maximum takeoff.

Dimensions: Wingspan 35 ft, length 26 ft, height 12 ft 1 in., wing area 209 sq. ft.

Armament: Two 0.50 in. Machine Guns in the wings, two 0.30-in. Machine Guns in the upper fuselage.