Just arrived from Jumblies in the U.K.
The Douglas F4D Skyray (later redesignated F-6 Skyray) was an American carrier-based supersonic Fighter/Interceptor built by Douglas. Although it was in service for a relatively short time and never entered combat, it was notable for being the first carrier-launched aircraft to hold the world's absolute speed record, at 752.943 mph, and was the first United States Navy and United States Marine Corps fighter that could exceed Mach 1 in level flight.
The Altaya 1/72 Scale model of the Skyray is surprising in quality given the price (in the low $20.00 range). Not much diecast metal content here as the model is mainly plastic. The packaging is sub par however. Mine arrived with the stand support bouncing around the package and caused a few superficial scratches on the paint. Also once the package is opened it can never be sealed up again.
Overall the shape is accurate and the paint quality is acceptable if not up to the usual diecast standard (quite thin in places). There are also a few quality control issues (My version came with a bent Sidewinder missile which come pre-mounted under the wing and there are a few glue marks on the airframe as well). The Canopy can be removed with some prying and a Hobby Master Pilot fits just fine. The model may be displayed gear up or gear down and a simple display stand is included.
Since the Skyray is unlikely to be done by a major diecast company any time soon I would say that this makes it a must buy for anyone who collects U.S. Naval aircraft.
Overall a good value but quality issues in my opinion mean that these "Magazine Diecast Models" will not be a threat to Mainstream Diecast Manufacturers anytime soon.
Dan
P.S. Here is the link to the French Magazine (Journaux) that sponsors these models:
http://www.journaux.fr/avions-de-com..._1_457949.html
Review: Altaya USN Douglas F4D1 Skyray VF-162 "The Hunters"
Steve 
