Aircraft Pictorial 7: F4U-1 Corsair Vol. 1
By Matt Bittner
Author: Dana Bell
Publisher: Classic Warships Publishing
ISBN: 978-0-9857149-7-0
Binding: Softcover
Pages: 72
Once it was announced the next book in their Aircraft Pictorial line from Classic Warships Publishing was Volume 1 on the Vought F4U Corsair, and knowing the author was Dana Bell I knew this would be a book needed to be tracked down. And I was right! This is a treasure trove of information on the early Corsairs including the ones that became known as the "Birdcage Corsairs" due to the canopy's framing.
There is such a wealth of information in this book that it's not surprising Classic is planning a multi-volume series. There is information on the type not yet seen in any publication and Mr. Bell dispels many myths about the aircraft.
There are color profiles in this publication this time but they deal with generic colors and marking locations. In addition, there are some period-color photographs that are also a must-see. Not only is there information about the US versions, naturally, but also those flown by the UK.
I feel this book is a must for any student of the F4U Corsair, whether you like the early or late versions. The wealth of information packed within 72 pages is astounding.
Plenty of thanks are given to Classic Warships Publishing for sending the review copy.