Followers

Monday, August 19, 2013

Instructions


I have been building models from a variety of companies and while the kits are actually pretty similar, but the instructions are very different.


This set is pretty good, lots of exploded views to show the different versions.


These Airfix instructions are good at the start.


The last panel is a bit busy.


The MPC instructions for the Mosquito are good too.

Sunday, August 18, 2013

ThunderboltP-47D Fighter-Bomber


This bubble top P47 is the old Frog kit.  No ordinance under the wing, I build my bubble tops as air superiority fighters, usually.


Close up of the pilot.  The bubble tops were added to increase the visibility of the pilot so he could watch out for enemy planes.  They say, keep your head on a swivel.  They wear the silk scarf so their neck does not get all worn out scraping against their wool or cotton clothing.  It's also very cold at 20,000 feet altitude.


I build my airplanes with the landing gear down, that way they can sit on airfields when the enemy attacks, but I also put a loop on the top so they can fly over the battlefield.


The Frog kit is a very old kit that is long out of production. They were good durable kits, nice for wargaming. 


There are several local model kit collector shows.  I try and visit them once in a while, they often have lots of aircraft kits, and I try and buy a few each time.  It's a good way to build up a collection of planes.  I try and focus on only a few types, but I don't restrict the brand.  That way I get some variety, even within the specific aircraft type.

Saturday, August 17, 2013

Another P47


This P47 has bombs and an extended range fuel tank in the center line.


Nice close up of the pilot.


I can bang out a plane like this in about two days.


The first day is mostly painting the pilot and maybe the cockpit, and doing some sub-assemblies.  Day two is the main assembly.  Shown here with a 1/72nd scale soldier.

Friday, August 16, 2013

Old Kit Week


A razorback P47, in 1/72nd scale by Matchbox.


I paint the interior and pilot but the rest of the plane gets painted in bulk with other planes.


Maybe in a week, a month, or five years from now.


Matchbox made good sturdy kits, great for wargaming.


Quick and easy to assemble, with decent instructions.


I plan on painting my razorbacks in OD green, and my bubble tops in silver.


Looks pretty impressive next to a 1/72nd scale soldier.