Thanks guys. 

I'm finally done with this guy.  To recap, it's Tamiya's 1/32 scale P-51 in the markings of George Preddy's Cripes A Mighty 3rd.  This was the plane he scored most of his 26.83 kills in.  After market goodies were PE belts an Eduard Brassin wheels.

This was an extremely detailed kit but dare I say somewhat over-engineered. The nose was a pain to get closed up and it still isn't perfect.  I wish they would realize not everyone wants to see the engine, so make it easier to build closed up.  I also don't like the seam down the middle of the sliding canopy.  For a $100.00 plus kit this is unacceptable to me.  I certainly wasn't going to try to sand that out.  Aside from these nit-picks, It was a great build and I see more in my future.     

I used AK Interactive Xtreme Metals for the first time.  I have mixed feelings about these too.  They spray nice but take a long time to cure and they scratch easily.  I think I'll stick with Alclad.  I used Maketar masks for the insignias.  Weathering was a mix of Flory and AK Streaking Fluid.  I was going for well used. 

Thanks for following...

Well done.

Like a nice wine, enjoyed regulary!

Excellent work, Joe!

I agree they should have alternate parts for a solidly closed cowling. As for the canopy seam, I'm guessing you know it's a byproduct of the slide molding process to get the detail on the frame and get the shape right, but yeah, that's super annoying.

I had that on my Meng P-51D, and I used the Dallas canopy as a test bed. Sanding it isn't actually too difficult. To preserve the shape, I used the Flex-I-File U-shaped sanding tool that takes a piece of sandpaper on the open ends of the U. That lets it flex so you don't get flat spots. I polished it with micro mesh, and it was like it was never there.

http://store.spruebrothers.com/product_p/flx0123.htm

Anyway, great build, and I can't wait to see your next project.

-BD-

As always Joe- friggin' perfect!!! 

I swear with a little Photoshopping on the background I'd think she was the real 1/1th scale thing! 

She's a real beauty, Joe. Thanks for the WIP. (and for the mini-review of the AK Interactive metal paints too)

BrandonD

As for the canopy seam, I'm guessing you know it's a byproduct of the slide molding process to get the detail on the frame and get the shape right, but yeah, that's super annoying. I had that on my Meng P-51D, and I used the Dallas canopy as a test bed. Sanding it isn't actually too difficult. To preserve the shape, I used the Flex-I-File U-shaped sanding tool that takes a piece of sandpaper on the open ends of the U. That lets it flex so you don't get flat spots. I polished it with micro mesh, and it was like it was never there.

http://store.spruebrothers.com/product_p/flx0123.htm

Thanks Brandon. Yeah I'm aware of that and remember the Meng being the same way. I don't recall Airfix havig this issue though, so obviously it can be done. Tamiya should be able to figure this out.  Thanks for the link to the files and I may try your technique.  Where do you get Micro Mesh?    

Thanks for all the kind words all.  

lawdog114

 

 

BrandonD

As for the canopy seam, I'm guessing you know it's a byproduct of the slide molding process to get the detail on the frame and get the shape right, but yeah, that's super annoying. I had that on my Meng P-51D, and I used the Dallas canopy as a test bed. Sanding it isn't actually too difficult. To preserve the shape, I used the Flex-I-File U-shaped sanding tool that takes a piece of sandpaper on the open ends of the U. That lets it flex so you don't get flat spots. I polished it with micro mesh, and it was like it was never there.

http://store.spruebrothers.com/product_p/flx0123.htm

 

 

Thanks Brandon. Yeah I'm aware of that and remember the Meng being the same way. I don't recall Airfix havig this issue though, so obviously it can be done. Tamiya should be able to figure this out.  Thanks for the link to the files and I may try your technique.  Where do you get Micro Mesh?    

 

I agree they shouldbe able to figure it out. I can only guess it has to do with detail on the sides or something.

As for Micro Mesh, I get it on eBay or Amazon, and the local hobby shop carries it, too, and I've bought it fromthem in the past.

-BD-

Absolutely beautiful Mustang.

She's a real stunner Joe! Thanks for sharing

Sorry guys, I had taken a break from the forum and did not see your comments.  Thanks for the kind words.   

Merciful heavens! I don't understand how I missed this one of Joe's.

Another beauty!

Thanks guys...

Britt, I don't remember. I think I paid a shade over 100 bones for the kit on ebay and with the extras, it was probably close to 150. It's definitely worth the money, but I still would't mind trying the new Revell version next. I hear it's quite good too.

A hundred to a hundred and fifty bones!  Oh no.  The human body only has 206 bones total.  You must be flopping around like a Jelly Fish 

PFJN

A hundred to a hundred and fifty bones!  Oh no.  The human body only has 206 bones total.  You must be flopping around like a Jelly Fish 

 

Yep........only 56 bones left!

Awesome finish!

Your friend, Toshi

Lawdog, your work is always stunning.  

This Mustang is no exception.  

lawdog114

 

PFJN

A hundred to a hundred and fifty bones!  Oh no.  The human body only has 206 bones total.  You must be flopping around like a Jelly Fish 

 

 

 

 

Yep........only 56 bones left!

 

With the work that went into this one, take a couple of those leftover bones and grab a couple of the favorite beverage......and well deserved at that.  Beautiful!!