F9F-2 Panther, 1/72 - Hobby Boss 87248

The F9F-2 Panther Hobby Boss 87248 is a plastic model kit to be assembled at 1/72, depicting the Grumman F9F-2 Panther jet-powered carrier-based fighter. This reference lets you recreate an iconic aircraft from the early generations of US Navy jets, in a compact format suited to naval aviation collections and flight-deck dioramas.

The Grumman F9F-2 Panther

The F9F Panther is an American carrier-based fighter aircraft designed by Grumman. Used by the US Navy and the US Marine Corps, it notably saw service during the Korean War. The F9F-2 belongs to the early production versions of this right-wing fighter family, recognizable by its compact silhouette, its lateral air intakes, and its conventional tailplane.

The Hobby Boss 87248 model kit

This 1/72 kit includes more than 90 parts. Once assembled, the model measures 159.8 mm in length with a 161 mm wingspan. The 1/72 scale reduces each dimension of the real aircraft by a factor of 72, making it easy to display multiple aircraft from the same period.

The reference includes markings to build an aircraft from the US Navy or Argentine naval aviation. The decals provide the essential markings for finishing the model and complete the chosen paint scheme.

Assembly and finishing

As with any plastic model kit to be assembled, preparing the parts before gluing helps achieve a clean result: careful removing of flash, checking fitment, and lightly sanding the mating lines if necessary. Applying a suitable primer then helps ensure paint uniformity and lets you check the condition of the surfaces.

Decals are best applied to a smooth, glossy surface to reduce the risk of silvering under the markings. A satin or matte finish can then be chosen depending on the desired look. Subtle weathering also helps highlight panel lines, walkways, and the characteristic signs of use of a carrier-based aircraft.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Hobby Boss
• Reference: 87248
• Type: assembled airplane model kit
• Subject: Grumman F9F-2 Panther
• Scale: 1/72
• Material: plastic
• Number of parts: more than 90
• Assembled length: 159.8 mm
• Wingspan: 161 mm
• Markings: US Navy and Argentine naval aviation

Complementary products

Assembly generally requires plastic model glue, cutting and deburring tools, fine abrasive paper, and suitable paints. A primer, products for applying decals, and brushes or an airbrush can complete your finishing supplies.