This next project, keeping with the MTO theme, is Tamiya's Fieseler Fi 156C Storch. The subject is SF+RL, which is on the box cover. However, rather than a RLM78 wave mirror pattern over RLM79, I decided to depict an RLM79 wave mirror pattern over a RLM70/71 splinter scheme.
There's some interesting research that suggests this scheme, and the photos, although it's difficult to tell, support this pattern.
The build for this kit is unique in that Tamiya molded the clear side windows into the gray plastic fuselage side panels. In addition, the kit uses a metal wing spar and metal support struts for the landing gear for strength.
I decided to build and paint the fuselage, wings and stabilizers separately for ease of painting and decaling.
The build was straightforward but required a little extra TLC to get the alignment right.
The RLM65/70/71 splinter pattern was painted using Mr. Color lacquers. The wave mirror pattern in RLM79 was painted using Mission Models acrylics with my H&S airbrush with 0.15 nozzle.
The Tamiya kit profile was used as the primary guide for painting the splinter and wave mirror patterns.
The gloss coat and decals were straightforward. An oil wash was applied to highlight the panel lines.
A flat coat was followed by some light overspray of sand color on the undersides and streaks on top to tone down the stark white and black markings. AK weathering pencils were used for various highlights, chips and scratches.
Cleaning up the canopy interior took quite a bit of time due to poor masking on my part -- the open door is a complex shape and I could have done a better job sealing the edges.
Overall, it was a nice kit that went together well and I'm happy with how the camo scheme came out.
Thanks for looking. Comments and critiques always welcome.