Among the latest upgrade sets from Barracuda Studios are beautifully detailed replacement wheels for Airfix's 1:24 Grumman Hellcat.

Packed in zip-lock bags with a card backing, two sets are available, both featuring master patterns by Michael O'Hare. One set offers a direct alternative to the Airfix parts, while the other features a different tread-style.

Each set contains 4 beige resin parts - the wheels themselves, plus separate outer hubs - and the casting is flawless in the sample sets. The first set covers Goodyear tyres with diamond treads, while the second set has Firestone tyres with cross treads.

The detail is exquisite, with beautifully defined tread patterns, makers' logos and hub details. It's important to not that the wheels are "handed", so the casting point on each tyre forms a small flat spot that not only depicts the weight of the aircraft, but serves to set the correct angle of the wheel on the undercarriage leg.

Accompanying the sets is a neatly produced set of instructions, with a detailed written step-by-step description of the work involved, plus colour photos and a reference shot of the full-sized landing gear.

The two sets are:

BR14412 - F6F Hellcat Diamond Tread Wheels
BR14413 - F6F Hellcat Cross Tread Wheels

Both are available now from Barracuda Studios - Price: $13.95

Conclusion

Barracuda Studios's 1:24 Hellcat wheels are superbly done. While I don't have the Airfix kit to compare them against, it's clear from online photos of the styrene parts that these resin upgrades offer a dramatic improvement and are well worth considering if you're building this impressive model.

Please remember, when contacting retailers or manufacturers, to mention that you saw their products highlighted here - on AEROSCALE.