This started as a side project from a trickle-down effect of other LVT/AAV kits starting with the Goffy Models 1/72 AAV interior. I could not toss out what was nearly a whole kit, even after picking the sprues apart for the aforementioned LVT/AAV projects and it managed to become the focus of effort on the hobby desk. This particular hull is from Dragon’s AAVR7A1 kit, which is horrendously inaccurate and even included the UGWS. I am using it to mark all the inaccuracies in the moldings, some I corrected but most annotated for correction on the LVT/AAV projects that will follow.
Instead of starting with light colors I actually sprayed the black first. It required more coats of primer for subsequent colors but made masking the camouflage pattern easier, especially on a kit that measures less than five-inches from forward edge of the bowplane to stern. The tac marks required many attempts with Archer transfers and although I am not completely satisfied they will do for this build.
I am in the final phases of the AAV, needing to apply some touch painting here and there. Most noticeable is the handrails that run along the port & starboard aft. I had filled the holes for the plastic pieces and did not realize there was no PE pieces – the PE set is for an EAAK tractor which are not even visible under the EAAK, until it was time to attach all the PE. I have opted not to apply the SINCGAR antenna posts, mostly from laziness given the amount the kit parts require and not wanting to deal with the gypsy racks and handrails for which the posts would have to be wedged into/over. The next kits will have the antenna posts! I like the forward PE plenum screen, the rear screen is missing the weld beads visible on the forward one but, unfortunately the grilles are hidden by the screens.
The next big step will be adding the water and creating the waves and froth. This will be my first experiment with water to boot. I have also ordered microfiber to create a smoke plum billowing from the exhaust which typically used for obscuration in the assault – mostly for show as real landings are done in the dark anyway.
The efforts thus far:
Roughly what I am building toward:
WIP:
Trying to get my hobby stuff sorted - just moved and still unpacking.
"Gator, Green Catskill....Charlie On Time"