Would anyone be aware of a kit for the Shrike Commander? Preferably in 1/48th (though 1/72 would be okay also) with Bob Hoover’s markings. In the same vane, I am looking for a set of 3-views, with sections if possible, for the same plane for a future scratch build. Thanks!
The only kit is the old Comet/Aurora Commander 500, which is a bit smaller than 1/72 and has the old IGSO-480 engine nacelles. I think I have some 3-views somewhere of the Commander. Hoover’s airplane was a 500U, sometimes called the Shrike Commander, the difference from a 500B (which had IO-520 Lycomings and the flat nacelles and overwing exhausts) externally is a bit more pointed nose.
Thanks jeaton01 for the quick reply. Looks like scratching will have to be the way to go. I’m collecting as much data as I can now. Could you share a copy of your 3-views with me? I did find these GA drawing just a few minutes ago:
The three view you found is a pretty good one. It needs a little refinement on the tip of the fin, looks more like the Turbo-Commander, and the point of the nose is not quite on. One thing I see missed on Commander drawings is the the fuselage in front view is not a rounded square but a rounded trapezoid, wider on the bottom. This one looks about right to me.
Righto jeaton, Thanks for the info. Guess I’m on the right track.
I’m having a senior moment right now and cannot remember who sponsored that airplane. The point is that you may be able to get pictures from the sponsors Public Relations (PR) departmment. The aircraft was white with bright green trim. The sponsor also had Bob Hoover flying a jet for a few seasons after the Commander. My personal favorite is the Rockwell Yellow P-51. Bob Hoover may have a web sight. Have you tried that? He is based in Fla. The last I heard he was badly injured in a car accident and was not flying. Anybody know if he is still doing demo’s?
The Shrike was sponsored by Evergreen Aviation when it had the green/white color scheme. Prior to that, I believe he was sponsored by North American Aviation. Saw him fly many timees at the Reno Air Races. What a pilot!!