Hobby Master 1:48 Air Power Series Diecast Model

Grumman F3F-1 – Section 3 Leader, VF-4 "Red Rippers", U.S. Navy, USS Ranger, late 1930s

1:48 Scale.  Length: 5.75".  Wingspan: 8"

Formed in 1927 as Bombing Squadron One, they became VF-4 in 1932 while aboard the USS Lexington. In March 1936 the squadron received the new Grumman F3F-1 and on July 1, 1936 they transferred to the USS Ranger. In 1937 they assumed the title VF-4 "Red Rippers".

The green tail signifies the USS Ranger, the color blue signifies the third section, the solid blue band around the engine cowling signifies the first aircraft in the third section, and the blue band around the fuselage signifies the unit leader of the third section. The second aircraft in a section would have the top half of the engine cowling painted and the third aircraft in the 3-plane section would have the lower half of the cowling painted.

Produced in the mid to late 1930s the F3F-1, as well as the 2 and 3 variants, belonged to what probably was the most colorful era in U.S. military aviation history. Grumman took the lessons learned from the F2F and incorporated them into the F3F. "The Flying Barrel", as it was called, had a wide fuselage to accommodate the large radial engine, spinning a three-bladed Hamilton Standard propeller. The plane also had improved retractable landing gear and a longer fuselage that improved stability. The last F3F was retired by the U.S. Navy in November 1943.


Hobby Master offers a wide selection of quality, pre-assembled, diecast model airplanes. Each model is crafted to a high level of accuracy using specifications of the original aircraft. They are constructed with precision-made diecast metal and some plastic components.

This model of an F3F-1 by Hobby Master features: