March 16, 2026

Preview: A F4U-1D in 48th scale From Magic Factory

Magic Factory's 48th F4U-1D is the next Corsair from Magic Factory. We look at the original kites & the kit features in our preview....

Preview: A F4U-1D in 48th scale From Magic Factory

Vought F4U-1D Corsair
From Magic Factory
Kit No. #5006
1/48th scale
Plastic injection model kit
Photo-etch included
Two marking choices are included.
Cockpit transparencies and wheel masks included
The subject: The Vought F4U-1D Corsair
The Vought F4U-1D Corsair stands as the definitive evolution of the "Bent-Wing Bird," marking the moment the aircraft finally conquered the challenges of carrier deck operations. While earlier models were relegated to land-based Marine Corps squadrons due to visibility issues and "bouncy" landings, the 1-D introduced a raised pilot’s seat and a frameless "blown" canopy that significantly improved the view over its massive nose. Combined with revised landing gear struts, these changes allowed the U.S. Navy to fully integrate the Corsair into its carrier air groups by 1944, providing a high-performance alternative to the F6F Hellcat.

Vought F4U-1D Corsair VF-84 White 162 aboard CV 17 USS Bunker Hill Okinawa 1945-01
Technically, the F4U-1D was a powerhouse designed for the brutal "mud-moving" requirements of the late-war Pacific campaigns. It was the first Corsair variant equipped with twin pylons under the centre wing section, allowing it to carry two 1,000-pound bombs or massive drop tanks for extended range. Additionally, it introduced permanent underwing rails for eight High-Velocity Aircraft Rockets (HVARs). This heavy ordnance, paired with the Pratt & Whitney R-2800 Double Wasp engine’s new water-injection system, transformed the Corsair from a pure dogfighter into a devastating fighter-bomber capable of precision strikes against hardened Japanese positions.

Vought F4U-1D Corsair VMF-351 Yellow FF57 after hitting the barricade. USS Cape Gloucester CVE 109, 5th Jul 1945-01
Beyond its mechanical prowess, the 1-D variant cemented the Corsair's psychological legacy as the "Whistling Death". The distinctive sound produced by air rushing through the wing-root oil coolers became a terrifying hallmark of its low-level strafing runs. By the time it saw action over Iwo Jima and Okinawa, the F4U-1D was no longer just an interceptor; it was a versatile platform that could dominate the skies against the A6M Zero in the morning and provide close-air support for advancing Marines in the afternoon. Its rugged design and immense firepower ensured it remained in service long after the war, proving the timelessness of Vought’s iconic gull-wing silhouette.

Famous ace Lt Col Donald Keith Yost (MCSN 05453) shot down 8 aircraft; the second aircraft in this boxing, Yellow FF59, was his mount in 1945. 

Magic Factory's new boxing of the Corsair in 48th scale.
Magic Factory's new Corsair Mk. II is the F4U-1D (Item No. 5006) in 1/48th scale. The kit has the features of the previous two Corsairs from Magic Factory, including:

-New loadouts, including HVARs, are now included.
- "No connect" point PE-Parts are provided in this kit for easier assembly.
- The wings can be built in folded and unfolded positions.
- Detailed rivets and panel lines of the aircraft's outer skin are replicated.
- Accurate engine appearance and external details.
- Instrument panel parts with or without details for modellers to use aftermarket 3D decals easily.
- Optional positions for separated rudder control surfaces, flaps and ailerons.
- The gun bay can be built open, with gun and belt provided for your preference.
- Detailed landing gear and wheel well.
- Paint masks are included for the transparencies.
- Two interesting marking choices:
VF-84 "Wolf Gang" (part of CVG-84) aboard the USS Bunker Hill (CV-17) in early 1945 (most of F4U numbers in CVG-84 are included). White 167 (BuNo 57803) was flown by Lt Cdr Roger R. Hedrick of VF-84 aboard the USS Bunker Hill in February 1945
The second choice is from VMF-351. Yellow FF59. F4U-1D Corsair Lt Col Donald K. Yost, VMF-351, USS Cape Gloucester, 1945.
Decals are from Cartograf
That is all we know about this kit for now. Check out the Magic Factory Website & Facebook page.