Tootsietoy B-17 - 1989

[Tone]

Though Tootsietoy did not make a B-17 during its heyday - instead it painted up a DC-4E Super Mainliner in camouflage and sold it as a heavy bomber - it made up for this lack in 1989, when it issued this small model blister-packed with a Spitfire, Stuka and Zero. Though the plane looks attractive from the top, its wheels look clumsy because of safety standards.

[MichaelB]

It's a nice little B17, Tony. Whack off the wheels, plastic parts and toy paint and then refinish it properly on a stand, props running, and you'd be amazed how nice it looks!
These little things were so common about 10 years ago...absolutely everywhere in every store along with the larger Hard Body helicopters....all gone now for years. I guess they do a big run and when stock is gone...they are gone...
1/320 scale if memory holds...
They also had a group of fighters...not in this scale but sized to be companions. Again, whack off the wheels and they looked much better.
Michael

[Tone]

They also had a group of fighters...not in this scale but sized to be companions

"Eagle Squad" boxed set of miniatures, removed from the packaging for these photos.

[MichaelB]

Sniff...now I miss these things...although I must have a box of them back there...

[Tone]

Here is a close-up of the P-40. Tootsietoy made three different P-40s over the years: the rare vintage one, the large-scale one with plastic parts, and this itty bitty one.



Large scale P-40 with plastic parts.

[MichaelB]

Yeah, notice that it says "Die Cast Metal" down in the corner...metal fuselage but plastic wings and etc! This was a really sorry line of toys and did a real disservice to the legendary name.
That said...they look very nice compared to the current crop of airplane toys - which is close to none! Lots of expensive models (I have the very nice 1/18 scale issue but nothing like this for kids.
The P-40 is one of the most modeled subjects of all time - or toyed with - take your pick!