This was completed a few years ago, and it was such an easy biplane to complete I started collecting more kits, decals, resin improvements/conversions.  

The Subject

5-B-7 was one of a few biplanes operated by VB-5 from USS Ranger (CV-4) in 1934/35 as the Air Wing worked up on the newly commissioned carrier.  By the time the Air Wing had completed its training on Ranger the squadron had converted over fully to the Grumman FF-1 two-seat fighter/scout.

The Model

Construction was quite easy and the model came together quickly.  Before gluing the upper wing on I drilled all the holes for the rigging.

I chose this scheme because it was colorful.  My other yellow wings all had red tails and I wanted this one to reflect a unit other than from Air Wing 1.  Decals are from Starfighter Decals sheet 72-102 and these went on easily and settled down in all the details of the kit.

Rigging is 5 pound test fishing line and needs to be replaced.  I’ve learned that fishing line tends to sag over time and this is no exception.

Summary

This was an enjoyable build and I my next one will include the resin upgrade set and yes, it’ll be yet another unit to show off all those colors.