Maurice87

Great build my friend, You where faster than me in this kit :), there is some historical and factual mistakes, unfortunately but there were a diffrences in external details beetwen G and H like bendix anthena, panel riveting  and bigger nose intakes, but don't worry it is not visible details on the first glance :) 

I like Your Lightning and Your weathering style :) 

Regards from Poland my friend :)

 

Thanks. Yeah I dont generally sweat the small stuff. 

Great build my friend, You where faster than me in this kit :), there is some historical and factual mistakes, unfortunately but there were a diffrences in external details beetwen G and H like bendix anthena, panel riveting  and bigger nose intakes, but don't worry it is not visible details on the first glance :) 

I like Your Lightning and Your weathering style :) 

Regards from Poland my friend :)

M4Shermanmodeler

Just to chime in on the compressibility theme. Think I read this many moons ago in Martin Caidin’s book “Fork-Tailed Devil”. IIRC the 38 would tuck its nose down and continue to steepen its dive in the compressibility zone no matter what the pilot did. It would eventually go vertical or even inverted while continuing to accelerate until the plane disintegrated or the pilot regained control. Must have been utterly terrifying. Back before the days of computer simulations the only way to find out an aircraft’s quirks was to fly it and experience them. Wow!!

Fantastic build by the way!

 

Yep, that's pretty much exactly what happened.  There's a good documentary on Youtube about the P-38 that discusses it.  It worth a watch. 

JacknewbIII

You have really done a nice job with that kit. I love that color scheme and you have convinced me to look into this kit for sure.

 

Thanks Jack....

B777Commander

I think Greg is right. I think you're a master modeler from what I have seen. I would love to build this kit soon, maybe in a Luftwaffe scheme. Anyway, this build is special. I read "Aces High" by Bill Yenne, and was blown away by McGuire's exploits. He was an outstanding marksman, no doubt.

 

LOL....Hardly, but thank you for the kind words.  Ineed, Mcguire was talented.  I may build his J eventually too.  I've seen the Luftwaffe decals out there. That would be a cool scheme.   

Just to chime in on the compressibility theme. Think I read this many moons ago in Martin Caidin’s book “Fork-Tailed Devil”. IIRC the 38 would tuck its nose down and continue to steepen its dive in the compressibility zone no matter what the pilot did. It would eventually go vertical or even inverted while continuing to accelerate until the plane disintegrated or the pilot regained control. Must have been utterly terrifying. Back before the days of computer simulations the only way to find out an aircraft’s quirks was to fly it and experience them. Wow!!

Fantastic build by the way!

You have really done a nice job with that kit. I love that color scheme and you have convinced me to look into this kit for sure.

waikong

Gorgeous kit, gorgeous build! How did I miss this thread till now? Do I have to put my hasegawa kit on ebay too? :)

 

Thanks! Absolutely....this thing has rendered the Hasegawa kit obsolete. Mine are going on eBay. Life is too short! 

seastallion53

Very nice,i can only hope mine turns out half that good.

 

Thanks stallion 

Very nice,i can only hope mine turns out half that good.

rangerj

If I recall correctly I read in Wings or Air Power Magazine, many years ago, the Mcguire actually pulled so many Gs in a turn while in combat that he bent the wings of a P-38. Anyone else have information on this.

 

Never heard this one. I did read that this thing could come close if not hit the sound barrier in a dive. They called it "compressibility" I guess. 

Greg

Sorry I managed to miss this whilst in progress, Joe, but also surely glad I found it.

Outstanding work.

It's comforting to know that even master modelers like yourself appreciate a kit that goes together right without minor fiddling. I sure like it better that way myself.

Thanks for the great WIP and positive critique of the kit. Makes me want to build this, or something Tamiya. Oh, and those gun barrels look great indeed.

 

Hardly a master modeler, but thanks Greg. 

plasticjunkie

Beautiful work dog as usual. The overall model and base detailing are out of the park!

 

I will be switching to the AK colors as I run out of my MM enamels. 

 

Thanks PJ

damouav

Outstanding work Joe, just outstanding.

Thank you again for taking the time to post, I look forward to your next build.

 

Thanks Damian 

If I recall correctly I read in Wings or Air Power Magazine, many years ago, the Mcguire actually pulled so many Gs in a turn while in combat that he bent the wings of a P-38. Anyone else have information on this.

Sorry I managed to miss this whilst in progress, Joe, but also surely glad I found it.

Outstanding work.

It's comforting to know that even master modelers like yourself appreciate a kit that goes together right without minor fiddling. I sure like it better that way myself.

Thanks for the great WIP and positive critique of the kit. Makes me want to build this, or something Tamiya. Oh, and those gun barrels look great indeed.

Beautiful work dog as usual. The overall model and base detailing are out of the park!

I will be switching to the AK colors as I run out of my MM enamels. 

Outstanding work Joe, just outstanding.

Thank you again for taking the time to post, I look forward to your next build.

Greatmaker

Perfection achieved. Another fantastic finish Joe. Always raising the bar 

 

Thanks Robert

Perfection achieved. Another fantastic finish Joe. Always raising the bar 

Reasoned

Beautiful looking build Joe and your kit review makes me want to pick one up...especially since the Revellogram version has been sitting partially built on my bench for a couple of years.

 

Thanks Reasoned.  I hear you, that Monogram P-38 was one of my first kits when I returned to the hobby and I almost quit again because of it.  Thankfully my second was the Tamiya P-47. 

bvallot

Man Joe, just as soon as I pop back on what's the first thing I see?? So happy to find you tackling this already. My kit is actually in the mail. I couldn't wait either and got myself an early Xmas present with a gift card I got from work. I'll have to take my time and come back to this thread later this week. 

Very cool Joe.

Any other tricks or takeaways? something you would do different next.time..??

 

Thanks Britt.  hmmmm, other than what I mentioned, I doubt I'd do anthing different.  It's a great kit and was a pleasure to build.  If I didn't have other projects that I had to get done, I'd build another right now.  

1943Mike

Outragiously delicious Joe!

Question - Do you use gloves for installing the canopy, or others parts you chose to leave for near the end of the build? I ask because I never see smudges or any other imperfections that might be due to dirty fingers on your builds and also because I'm not the neatest model builder around. Just curious.

This will be my primary reference for the build when I get to it.

 

Thanks Mike.  No gloves, I'm just very careful.  I sometimes use Novus cleaner on a q-tip if they get dusty.  Truthfully I don't like polished glass because I think it's unrealistic.  I don't believe these were perfect on the real thing, especially plexiglass. 

JOE RIX

 

 

lawdog114

 

 

JOE RIX

Your P-38 is exceptional. You've done a remarkable job in rendering the weathering.

I'm curious Joe, is it feasible to paint the guns and nose seperately then mount everything afterwards? 

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe. You can do that if you so choose. I guess I never thought of that.

 

 

 

 

That's encouraging. I've got the Eduard Brassin gun set for this kit on the way. They appear to mount in the same way as the kit guns.

 

 

Yeah Joe, it shouldn't be an issue.  I just prefer adding guns at end.  Easier to paint then install.   

Joe another outstanding build! You certainly did it justice as always . Like I do'nt have enough kits in the stash You go and motivate me to order one !

Beautiful looking build Joe and your kit review makes me want to pick one up...especially since the Revellogram version has been sitting partially built on my bench for a couple of years.

Man Joe, just as soon as I pop back on what's the first thing I see?? So happy to find you tackling this already. My kit is actually in the mail. I couldn't wait either and got myself an early Xmas present with a gift card I got from work. I'll have to take my time and come back to this thread later this week. 

Very cool Joe.

Any other tricks or takeaways? something you would do different next.time..??

Outragiously delicious Joe!

Question - Do you use gloves for installing the canopy, or others parts you chose to leave for near the end of the build? I ask because I never see smudges or any other imperfections that might be due to dirty fingers on your builds and also because I'm not the neatest model builder around. Just curious.

This will be my primary reference for the build when I get to it.

lawdog114

 

 

JOE RIX

Your P-38 is exceptional. You've done a remarkable job in rendering the weathering.

I'm curious Joe, is it feasible to paint the guns and nose seperately then mount everything afterwards? 

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe. You can do that if you so choose. I guess I never thought of that.

 

Aggieman

Top notch work as always.  Thanks for sharing.

I just ordered this one, should be here in time for Christmas.  Your paint work is jaw dropping awesome.  AK Real Colors, I take it those are worth the cost?  I'm probably going to want to build a couple of these (but I have an old Monogram, a Monogram Pro-Modeler, and an Academy already built up and displayed, and these birds take up a lot of space for a 1/48th build - may have to find a place to farm out a couple of these older builds).

 

Thanks Aggie. AK Real Colors are wonderful. Worth every penny. 

RadMax8

Thanks for your honest thoughts on this kit. Seems like the only flaws are the gun design, and the kit wheels.

Can you touch on your technique for painting the guns? It looks like the paint is so thin, and the color looks just right to me.

I’ve got two of the early-model P-38’s from Hasegawa and one late model... at the rate I build I should sell them all and buy one Tamiya. But, deep down I’m a hoarder who likes a challenge!

 

My days with those other kits are over....lol. 

JOE RIX

Your P-38 is exceptional. You've done a remarkable job in rendering the weathering.

I'm curious Joe, is it feasible to paint the guns and nose seperately then mount everything afterwards? 

 

Thanks Joe. You can do that if you so choose. I guess I never thought of that.

tempestjohnny

Joe I have no words.

 

Thanks Johnny 

jeaton01

Gold plated, Joe!

 

Thanks Jeaton

goldhammer

Beautiful work...  Hope mine turns out half as nice, Id be happy at 1/3.

 

Side note:  According to my poking around last night, "Miss Virginia" arrived in PTO in Feb. '43, and was flown by another pilot and collected a couple of kills (supposedly with that name on her).  Was sent to Guadalcanal a little later.  Within a week or 10 days of the Yamamoto flight another pilot was in her and made a wheels up landing.  She was written off and scavenged for parts. So she was only around for about 3 months. No record of what happened to the hulk.

Just have to wonder if that was Barber's only flight in it.

 

Thanks Gold. It's my understanding this was the only time he flew Virginia. I could be wrong though. 

Hoss WA

Absolutely superb!!  Outstanding finish and agree that the Master gun barrels are very convincing. Thanks for sharing your progress photos and the build tips. Another excellent template for the rest of us! This P-38 is on my list for sure.  

 

Thanks Hoss

M. Brindos

WOW! 

That is a gorgeous model! Love those panel lines!!

 

Thanks Mike

fotofrank

Lawdog, great build. The model looks like you could touch it and feel the metal under the paint. Well done. I'd like to see a comperable P-38 in 1/72 scale sometime soon.

 

Thanks Frank

Tojo72

I would really like to do Richard Bong's Marge,hopefully we will get that version.

 

Me too!

patrick206

Joe -

Perfect kit, great build, a treat to see, thank you for the photos and details.

Since you plan on more, I hope you'll turn out a NMF at some point. Maybe Tamiya will release some additional versions, if they see such a good customer reception for this first one.

Patrick

 

Thanks Patrick. I hope a J soon. 

Mopar Madness

Beautiful LD!!  I'd love to get one of these and convert it to an RAF Mk.I evaluation plane. Yours is superb as always. 

 

Thanks Mopar. Supercharger delete......ouch!

the Baron

That's a beautiful finish, Lawdog!  Thanks for sharing your progress pics, too.  I can't wait till mine gets here.

A vendor at the Long Island show a couple weeks ago had one on his table, for sixty bucks, and I almost bought it.  But I told myself, "No-you have one on order, finish what is on your plate first." I should have, though.

Still not going to chuck my Monogram kits, or pass on building the other makers' kits, though.  I like to see how different companies tackle the same subject.

I'm following another build of this kit online, and the guy building it noted that when he assembled the tail booms, the vertical stabilizers were out of alignment.  He was able to align them, with a little pressure, attaching the horizontal stabilizer, and attaching the rudders.  Did you notice that at all?  I suspect it's not too unusual for a little warpage, on any sprue of any given kit.

 

Thanks Baron. The design of this kit makes misalignment almost impossible. Mine was almost a click fit. I guess anything is possible. The assembly is painless. 

Gamera

As usual superb, just friggin' superb!!! 

And as Mustang stated it sounds like you really enjoyed the kit as well. 

 

Thanks Gamera. Modeling bliss. 

mustang1989

Can't go wrong with that turn out Joe. I'd be really happy with that result. Sounds like you thoroughly enjoyed yourself with this kit too which is a big change from all the 1/48 scale kits that I've seen everybody else build.

 

Thanks Joe. Indeed I did my friend. 

BrandonK

This kit is definately on the want list. Waiting to see what Santa leaves me. I'll force myself through the Hase kit I have first so I have full appreciation for the Tamyia kit. Well done again, Joe. Super nice AC. I'll be changing over paints soon too.

BK

 

Thanks Brandon. You won't be disappointed. 

tomwatkins45

Beautiful, as is all of your work. I think mine is going to have to be my next project.

Tom

 

 Thanks Tom. 

Wingman_kz

Very nice! The gun barrels are a great addition and the Real Colors look great. They spray beautifully don't they. This kit is a must have. Tony

 

Thanks Tony. Indeed it is. 

Top notch work as always.  Thanks for sharing.

I just ordered this one, should be here in time for Christmas.  Your paint work is jaw dropping awesome.  AK Real Colors, I take it those are worth the cost?  I'm probably going to want to build a couple of these (but I have an old Monogram, a Monogram Pro-Modeler, and an Academy already built up and displayed, and these birds take up a lot of space for a 1/48th build - may have to find a place to farm out a couple of these older builds).

Thanks for your honest thoughts on this kit. Seems like the only flaws are the gun design, and the kit wheels.

Can you touch on your technique for painting the guns? It looks like the paint is so thin, and the color looks just right to me.

I’ve got two of the early-model P-38’s from Hasegawa and one late model... at the rate I build I should sell them all and buy one Tamiya. But, deep down I’m a hoarder who likes a challenge!

Your P-38 is exceptional. You've done a remarkable job in rendering the weathering.

I'm curious Joe, is it feasible to paint the guns and nose seperately then mount everything afterwards? 

fotofrank

I'd like to see a comperable P-38 in 1/72 scale sometime soon.

 

Gold plated, Joe!

Beautiful work...  Hope mine turns out half as nice, Id be happy at 1/3.

Side note:  According to my poking around last night, "Miss Virginia" arrived in PTO in Feb. '43, and was flown by another pilot and collected a couple of kills (supposedly with that name on her).  Was sent to Guadalcanal a little later.  Within a week or 10 days of the Yamamoto flight another pilot was in her and made a wheels up landing.  She was written off and scavenged for parts. So she was only around for about 3 months. No record of what happened to the hulk.

Just have to wonder if that was Barber's only flight in it.

Absolutely superb!!  Outstanding finish and agree that the Master gun barrels are very convincing. Thanks for sharing your progress photos and the build tips. Another excellent template for the rest of us! This P-38 is on my list for sure.  

WOW! 

That is a gorgeous model! Love those panel lines!!

Lawdog, great build. The model looks like you could touch it and feel the metal under the paint. Well done. I'd like to see a comperable P-38 in 1/72 scale sometime soon.

I would really like to do Richard Bong's Marge,hopefully we will get that version.

Joe -

Perfect kit, great build, a treat to see, thank you for the photos and details.

Since you plan on more, I hope you'll turn out a NMF at some point. Maybe Tamiya will release some additional versions, if they see such a good customer reception for this first one.

Patrick

Beautiful LD!!  I'd love to get one of these and convert it to an RAF Mk.I evaluation plane. Yours is superb as always. 

That's a beautiful finish, Lawdog!  Thanks for sharing your progress pics, too.  I can't wait till mine gets here.

A vendor at the Long Island show a couple weeks ago had one on his table, for sixty bucks, and I almost bought it.  But I told myself, "No-you have one on order, finish what is on your plate first." I should have, though.

Still not going to chuck my Monogram kits, or pass on building the other makers' kits, though.  I like to see how different companies tackle the same subject.

I'm following another build of this kit online, and the guy building it noted that when he assembled the tail booms, the vertical stabilizers were out of alignment.  He was able to align them, with a little pressure, attaching the horizontal stabilizer, and attaching the rudders.  Did you notice that at all?  I suspect it's not too unusual for a little warpage, on any sprue of any given kit.

As usual superb, just friggin' superb!!! 

And as Mustang stated it sounds like you really enjoyed the kit as well. 

Can't go wrong with that turn out Joe. I'd be really happy with that result. Sounds like you thoroughly enjoyed yourself with this kit too which is a big change from all the 1/48 scale kits that I've seen everybody else build.

This kit is definately on the want list. Waiting to see what Santa leaves me. I'll force myself through the Hase kit I have first so I have full appreciation for the Tamyia kit. Well done again, Joe. Super nice AC. I'll be changing over paints soon too.

BK

Beautiful, as is all of your work. I think mine is going to have to be my next project.

Tom

Tojo72

Beautiful work,this one is definitely on my list.Maybe I missed it,how did you prevent it from sitting on its tail,does Tamiya address it like in their ME 262 or did you add weight,or the fact its on a base prevent that ?

Again great job,love all of your work.

 

Thanks Tojo. Tamiya provides 3 large ball bearings, one for the nose and one for each boom. It's just enough weight to keep it on its gears. Again, genius design. I can't wait to build another. Thinking Barber's Miss Virginia next time. 

Beautiful work,this one is definitely on my list.Maybe I missed it,how did you prevent it from sitting on its tail,does Tamiya address it like in their ME 262 or did you add weight,or the fact its on a base prevent that ?

Again great job,love all of your work.

I'm going with done. To recap, it's in Tommy McGuire's 475th FG "#131 Pudgy".  I added some PE belts, Eduard resin wheels, and Master gun barrels.  I couldn't find Montex masks for the P-38 (I'm sure they are in the works now), so I used an old Superscale sheet.  No issues there. 

What can I say, Tamiya can now print money.....behold the perfect kit.  As previously mentioned, the only issue I had was the design of the machine guns, which need to be installEd before attaching the nose.  I hacked off the kit barrels and substituted the Master ones, which are way better anyways.  You could used Quickboost too, but they are more fragile.  The other issue I had was the installation of the fragile boom gear door actuator rods (they look like a V with a square box in the middle). The instructions have you put them in way too early and I broke two off (one I lost and had to fabricate a new one).  I recommend installation of these when you add the doors.       

With this said, I will be most likely be putting all my Hasegawa kits on ebay.  Life is too short to subject myself to that misery again when this kit now exists.

Here's how she turned out. 

Those Master Barrels, quite worth it....

AGREED.... But purchased another not that long ago, darn it.

goldhammer

 

 

lawdog114

 

 

goldhammer

After seeing your build of this, and reading the rewiew in FSM, had to order one out this morning.  But will stay with the "Miss Virginia" marking, since it's driver was close to home.

Another of your great works of art

 

damouav-  ordered mine from scalehobbiest, in stock and today was $59 US + freight

 

 

 

 

Thanks Hammer.  Nothing wrong with Barber's ride. It's on my short list too. 

 

 

 

 

 

He grew up and eventually returned to Culver, OR.  About 120 miles from me.  What kind of surprises me, is that the Erickson Collection hasn't repainted their P38 in that scheme.  Located about 10 miles from Culver.  Was some talk of it awhile back, but still done up as"Tangerine"  later model though. (L)

Side note:  The new highway bridge over the Crooked River Gorge is named for him, with a nice display of his history.  He also flew a Shooting Star under the old highway and railroad bridges back in the day.

 

I remember reading about that years ago.  Brave soul... 

lawdog114

 

 

goldhammer

After seeing your build of this, and reading the rewiew in FSM, had to order one out this morning.  But will stay with the "Miss Virginia" marking, since it's driver was close to home.

Another of your great works of art

 

damouav-  ordered mine from scalehobbiest, in stock and today was $59 US + freight

 

 

 

 

Thanks Hammer.  Nothing wrong with Barber's ride. It's on my short list too. 

 

He grew up and eventually returned to Culver, OR.  About 120 miles from me.  What kind of surprises me, is that the Erickson Collection hasn't repainted their P38 in that scheme.  Located about 10 miles from Culver.  Was some talk of it awhile back, but still done up as"Tangerine"  later model though. (L)

Side note:  The new highway bridge over the Crooked River Gorge is named for him, with a nice display of his history.  He also flew a Shooting Star under the old highway and railroad bridges back in the day.

damouav

Thanks - Convert $59 USD + Shipping to AUD and its about $5,000,000... 

 

It's worth $5000.00 if it means never having to build that Hasegawa abomination again.....  My humble opinion

goldhammer

After seeing your build of this, and reading the rewiew in FSM, had to order one out this morning.  But will stay with the "Miss Virginia" marking, since it's driver was close to home.

Another of your great works of art

 

damouav-  ordered mine from scalehobbiest, in stock and today was $59 US + freight

 

Thanks Hammer.  Nothing wrong with Barber's ride. It's on my short list too. 

damouav

As always, enjoying the build. Trying to get my hands on one for the stash.

Interesting comment regarding AK paint, have way too many Tamiya to consider changing momentarily.

Thanks for posting.

 

Glad to have ya Damian.  I have mostly Tamiya too. 

mustang1989

I've been reading on the quality of this kit and from what I see it's an all out winner. Then gun install from the rear of the nose cone is a bit surprising but  I'm wondering what the fit of the nose cone to the fuselage is like. Seems like almost all of the glue joins on this kit are along real panel lines which is a MAJOR plus in filling and all. Paint work is lookin' great Joe. Reverse black basing seems to be paying off for you.

 

Thanks Joe.  Definitely one of their best kits, if not the best.  The nose fits perfectly.  Almost all seams are on panel lines.  There are seams at the wingroot on the pod, but the fit is fine.  Minor sanding. 

damouav

Thanks - Convert $59 USD + Shipping to AUD and its about $5,000,000... 

 

It all adds or subtracts from our respective national debts.  Forgot your location.

Thanks - Convert $59 USD + Shipping to AUD and its about $5,000,000... 

After seeing your build of this, and reading the rewiew in FSM, had to order one out this morning.  But will stay with the "Miss Virginia" marking, since it's driver was close to home.

Another of your great works of art

damouav-  ordered mine from scalehobbiest, in stock and today was $59 US + freight

As always, enjoying the build. Trying to get my hands on one for the stash.

Interesting comment regarding AK paint, have way too many Tamiya to consider changing momentarily.

Thanks for posting.

I've been reading on the quality of this kit and from what I see it's an all out winner. Then gun install from the rear of the nose cone is a bit surprising but  I'm wondering what the fit of the nose cone to the fuselage is like. Seems like almost all of the glue joins on this kit are along real panel lines which is a MAJOR plus in filling and all. Paint work is lookin' great Joe. Reverse black basing seems to be paying off for you.

JohnnyK

Great looking paint job.

 

Thanks Johnny

TREYZX10R

Looking great Joe! I like the scheme You decided on. Thats a shame about the gun mounting design but I'm sure the metal barrels will look awesome! Mcguire was killed coming to the rescue of 2 new pilots that were about to be bounced by enemy fighters . He was flying while suffering from Dysentary and lack of rest which may have contributed to his forgetting to jettison his wing tanks before attempting the high G turn to intercept the fighters. His P-38 was last seen stalled out and spinning into the jungle too low for Him to recover or bail out.

 

Thanks Trey. Indeed, fantastic pilot. I read that if would have remembered to jettison the tanks, he likely would have pulled of that maneuver.  

Hoss WA

Really looks spectacular so far! I think I'll need to add this lightning to my list. Thanks for sharing your technique. 

 

Thanks Hoss...and your welcome. 

rooster513

Looking really good Joe! Do you have to thin the AK Real Colors or are they good out of the bottles?

 

Thanks bud. Yes, it needs thinned. They sell their own thinner which works great. 

BrandonK

The work looks great and I agree that the AK paints look incredible. I too am planning on slowly switching over as I run out of other brands. I agree that black basing is far too time consuming and a good post shade works just as well for modulation. Very nice work, Joe, as always.

Bk

 

Tyanks Brandon. AK real did a nice job with these. 

Mopar Madness

Nice finish LD!

 

Thanks Mopar

Gamera

That looks sooooooooo good!!!!! 

 

I have to pick up one of these- you've convinced me. 

And I still have a couple of Hasegawa and Academy P-38s to build- maybe I should just stick my head in a door and slam it a few times to get in the mood... 

 

Thanks Gamera. Don't hurt yourself...

tomwatkins45

It's really looking great. The Reverse black basing works very well. I'm glad to know the infamous P-38 fit problems in the past have been resolved. Looks like there will be a lot of earlier P-38 kits available on e-bay.

Tom

 

Thanks Tom. All of my Hasegawa kits are slated for eBay. 

Tojo72

Now I don't want to get one,what's the point,it won't look that good.

 

Your very kind Tojo..thanks 

tempestjohnny

Oh man. You've definitely hit this one out of the park.

 

Thanks Johnny 

keavdog

Looks great.  Really happy to hear about the fit. 

 

Thanks Keav

Glorious work Joe. Your reverse basing along with the painted markings are making for one stunning P-38.

Yup, I do believe my Eduard (Academy) P-38 will soon be hitting the market.

Great looking paint job.

Looking great Joe! I like the scheme You decided on. Thats a shame about the gun mounting design but I'm sure the metal barrels will look awesome! Mcguire was killed coming to the rescue of 2 new pilots that were about to be bounced by enemy fighters . He was flying while suffering from Dysentary and lack of rest which may have contributed to his forgetting to jettison his wing tanks before attempting the high G turn to intercept the fighters. His P-38 was last seen stalled out and spinning into the jungle too low for Him to recover or bail out.

Really looks spectacular so far! I think I'll need to add this lightning to my list. Thanks for sharing your technique. 

Looking really good Joe! Do you have to thin the AK Real Colors or are they good out of the bottles?

The work looks great and I agree that the AK paints look incredible. I too am planning on slowly switching over as I run out of other brands. I agree that black basing is far too time consuming and a good post shade works just as well for modulation. Very nice work, Joe, as always.

Bk

Nice finish LD!

That looks sooooooooo good!!!!! 

I have to pick up one of these- you've convinced me. 

And I still have a couple of Hasegawa and Academy P-38s to build- maybe I should just stick my head in a door and slam it a few times to get in the mood... 

It's really looking great. The Reverse black basing works very well. I'm glad to know the infamous P-38 fit problems in the past have been resolved. Looks like there will be a lot of earlier P-38 kits available on e-bay.

Tom

Looks great.  Really happy to hear about the fit. 

I have been plugging away but not posting.  This will be long unfortunately.  Where was I?  Oh yeah....I glued the pit tub in place sans the seat and head armor as they can be added later.  This way I can seal the pit with tape easily and not worry about breaking them.  I switched to the gear bays.  The detail in here is amazing and everything fit quite well.  My research showed that early Lightnings had neutral grey bays, inner doors, and legs. In hindsight, I should have added the door arms at the end as I managed to break two off (and lost one of them). 

I then assembled the pod and added the nose cone.  I should mention the guns are a one piece assembly that goes in behind the nose piece. This has to be inserted before attaching the nose, so it's challenging for painting the guns.  Sort of a dumb design.  I sliced the barrels off and will supplement Master metal barrels later. 

Underside perfect fit...

The booms went together without issue and before I knew it I was here.  Not a single drop of putty, just normal seamwork.  Like a glove.

On a side note, I had Alclad aluminum loaded in my airbrush (for when I painted the inside radiators and such) and I used it to check my seams.  It worked great. Seams stuck out like a sore thumb. It worked way better than my silver Sharpie.

Unlike the Hasegawa kit, there is perfect fit at the wingroots....

Time for some paint.  I decided on Thomas McGuire's 475th FG "#131 Pudgy".  McGuire had 38 kills and was hot on the tail of Bong before being killed in a low level accident during a combat mission.  

After a panel line preshade.  I painted in the red with white stripes on the booms and tail.  These were then taped off.  

I wanted to do some minor upper wing chipping which is common on these, particularly on the port side where the pilot would walk.  I sprayed this area Alclad aluminum then added AK Interactive chipping fluid. 

Next I started on the Neutral Grey.  I used AK Real Colors.  After a coat of NG straight from the bottle, I added XF-2 White and marbled it. I call it reverse black basing (to mock the people who actually do the ever time consuming black basing...pure torture ).  Once sufficiently marbled. I went back with the straight NG color and feathered it in panel-by-panel.  I like the uneven patchwork effect.

I added blue tac for demarcation masks. 

Ready for some OD....

I've been dying to try the reverse black basing technique with Olive Drab. I used AK Real Colors Olive Drab 41 and Faded Olive Drab.  I started with straight OD 41. I think they did a nice job on this color. 

Next I marbled in the faded OD.  I even added some XF-57 Buff to lighten it up more in some places.  I then went back with straight OD and feathered that in panel-by-panel.  This took me 3 hours but I'm pleased with the results. To my eye it offers the same results as the black basing.   

I used a toothpick on the upper port wing and scraped up some of the paint of to reveal the aluminum.  I thought this was about right and I didn't want to overdo it.  I may do a little bit more.  

Overall effect.  I'm very pleased.  

We don't need stinkin' decals...

I must say, after this paint exercise, the AK Real Colors line is the best I've ever used.  It goes down smooth and dries quick.  I will probably switch to it exclusively eventually, at least for exterior paint schemes. I could not find P-38 Montex masks, so I will have to use decals. 

JOE RIX

 

 

lawdog114

 

 

JOE RIX

I am absolutely thrilled to see you jump into the P-38 build Joe. I acquired one of these shortly after they became available. I'm definitely going to follow along and enjoy you putting your remarkable talents into this gorgeous kit. You've already done your usual magic to the cockpit. Regrettable about the instrument panel but, you did a nice job on it regardless. I'm certain to pick up some helpful hints from you. I might wait and hope someone punches out a resin seat w/ molded on harnesses (You got me Ultracast?).

Looking forward to further progress soon.

 Cheers, Joe

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe. The current Ultracast P-38 seat should work in this kit. 

https://www.ultracast.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ULT48223

 

 

 

 

Sheesh. It would help if I looked first before spouting off. Thanks Joe. It's been awhile since I've had my share of humble pie.

 

 

Ain't no thang.  

1943Mike

Well Joe I ordered and received this kit a short time ago. Now that I see I have a thread from which I can take advantage of your expertise, I'll put it up in the queue for this coming winter/spring - I put off more flying lessons until the spring so I should have time for building models for a few months.

Each time I see one of your completed cockpits and instrument panels I'm amazed at the quality of your work.

I seem to have fallen below VS for modeling lately, hopefully that'll change shortly.

 

Thanks Mike.  You won't be disappointed.   

7474

I’ve been gone awhile and am glad to see you tackling this, I’ve been salivating to this myself.

 

Good to have you back....

lawdog114

 

 

JOE RIX

I am absolutely thrilled to see you jump into the P-38 build Joe. I acquired one of these shortly after they became available. I'm definitely going to follow along and enjoy you putting your remarkable talents into this gorgeous kit. You've already done your usual magic to the cockpit. Regrettable about the instrument panel but, you did a nice job on it regardless. I'm certain to pick up some helpful hints from you. I might wait and hope someone punches out a resin seat w/ molded on harnesses (You got me Ultracast?).

Looking forward to further progress soon.

 Cheers, Joe

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe. The current Ultracast P-38 seat should work in this kit. 

https://www.ultracast.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ULT48223

 

Well Joe I ordered and received this kit a short time ago. Now that I see I have a thread from which I can take advantage of your expertise, I'll put it up in the queue for this coming winter/spring - I put off more flying lessons until the spring so I should have time for building models for a few months.

Each time I see one of your completed cockpits and instrument panels I'm amazed at the quality of your work.

I seem to have fallen below VS for modeling lately, hopefully that'll change shortly.

sanderson_91

Looking really nice!  Just picked up one of these - maybe I’ll start it next.

 

 

Thanks Sanderson. 

JOE RIX

I am absolutely thrilled to see you jump into the P-38 build Joe. I acquired one of these shortly after they became available. I'm definitely going to follow along and enjoy you putting your remarkable talents into this gorgeous kit. You've already done your usual magic to the cockpit. Regrettable about the instrument panel but, you did a nice job on it regardless. I'm certain to pick up some helpful hints from you. I might wait and hope someone punches out a resin seat w/ molded on harnesses (You got me Ultracast?).

Looking forward to further progress soon.

 Cheers, Joe

 

Thanks Joe. The current Ultracast P-38 seat should work in this kit. 

https://www.ultracast.ca/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=ULT48223

M. Brindos

 

 

lawdog114

 

 

M. Brindos

Looks like it's just as fabulous as the Hien.

Gorgeous pit! Does the kit provide a pilot?

 

 

 

 

Thanks Mike. Indeed it does. The Ki-61 is on my short list too. 

 

 

 

 

The Hien practically built itself. I've yet to get serious with it since I got most of the major assemblies done.

I've got an old 1/32 Revell kit I've got in the works and it's gone together fairly okay so far. Still need to get to the twin booms. That always seems to be the tricky part.

Any idea on how well they fit on this kit yet?

 

Fit is outstanding.  It's the perfect model so far. I'll post some update pictures soon. I may sell all my other kits and just build Tamiya Lightnings for the rest of this life. 

Looking really nice!  Just picked up one of these - maybe I’ll start it next.

I am absolutely thrilled to see you jump into the P-38 build Joe. I acquired one of these shortly after they became available. I'm definitely going to follow along and enjoy you putting your remarkable talents into this gorgeous kit. You've already done your usual magic to the cockpit. Regrettable about the instrument panel but, you did a nice job on it regardless. I'm certain to pick up some helpful hints from you. I might wait and hope someone punches out a resin seat w/ molded on harnesses (You got me Ultracast?).

Looking forward to further progress soon.

 Cheers, Joe

lawdog114

 

 

M. Brindos

Looks like it's just as fabulous as the Hien.

Gorgeous pit! Does the kit provide a pilot?

 

 

 

 

Thanks Mike. Indeed it does. The Ki-61 is on my short list too. 

 

The Hien practically built itself. I've yet to get serious with it since I got most of the major assemblies done.

I've got an old 1/32 Revell kit I've got in the works and it's gone together fairly okay so far. Still need to get to the twin booms. That always seems to be the tricky part.

Any idea on how well they fit on this kit yet?

[quote user="keavdog"]

Looking great as usual lawdog.   Hoping to get one of these for Christmas. 

[/quote

Keavdog,

If you are a good boy you will get the kit for Christmas, because:

He sees you when you're sleeping
And he knows when you're awake
He knows if you've been bad or good
So be good for goodness sake!

keavdog

Looking great as usual lawdog.   Hoping to get one of these for Christmas. 

 

Thanks Keav. 

RadMax8

It’s so beautiful! Is this the top new kit that everyone has been waiting for? Honestly I feel like Tamiya are basically printing money with this one. And the later models, should they choose to produce them (they’d be insane to not...)

I’ve got two of the Hasegawa early models in the stash, as well as one of the J’s. I might as well just get rid of them, plus all the accumulated aftermarket. 

Anyway, looks like you’re off to an excellent start, buddy. Can’t wait to see it as you progress.

 

Yes it is Max. Guaranteed they come out with a J too. My Hasegawa kits will all be on eBay soon. Thanks for dropping by bud. 

JohnnyK

I am looking forward to comparing this kit to my Hobby Boss kit. It should be interesting.

 

That is supposed to be pretty good too. 

damouav

Hot Giggity...

Been looking forward to a build log on this bird, and what better person to show it!

 

Thanks Damian. 

M. Brindos

Looks like it's just as fabulous as the Hien.

Gorgeous pit! Does the kit provide a pilot?

 

Thanks Mike. Indeed it does. The Ki-61 is on my short list too. 

Greatmaker

Looking forward to your take on this kit. You seem to just get better and better. And with your speed I wonder if you ever sleep

 

Thanks Robert

mustang1989

 

 

lawdog114

 

 

mustang1989

You're right about that pit. Amazing detail in there and yeah.....I'll bet that the AM guys and gals aint happy. Tamiya sure didn't miss much in there. Sorry bout the decal on the IP. I dunno about calling it good though.....with as much detail as this thing has and with the efforts you've done on the interior I'd give 'er another go.

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe.  I'm gonna leave it be I think. It gets buried in there pretty deep anyways. 

 

 

 

 

I hear ya Joe! I've been known to be persistent with stuff like that. lol. I do hear you though.....at some point a line has to be drawn. I've got a General Lee build that I'm having to throttle back on the details somewhat because I'll get friggin lost in 'em.

 

 

Indeed, if it was readily visible I'd redo it. It would be kinda like detailing the inside of a bomber. There's no purpose.

Gamera

Big thanks! Was looking forward to someone starting this kit- you've done your usual bang-up job on the cockpit!

 

Thanks Gamera

JohnnyK

Looking really nice so far. I love the cockpit details.

 

Thanks Johnny

Tojo72

Excellent work,can't wait to grab my own.Thanks for giving us a blog.

 

Your welcome....and thanks Tojo. 

Hoss WA

Front office looks awesome. Looking forward to the rest...

 

Thanks Hoss

BrandonK

Well, it certainly looks like a very nice kit. And in your hands it will be a masterpiece. Thanks for taking us for the ride.

BK

 

Thanks...Good to have you Brandon. 

Mopar Madness

I knew you would be hot on the tail of this release! I sure do love that front office.

 

Thanks Mopar

TREYZX10R

Great looking office as always , eagerly awaiting the next update!

 

Thanks Trey

Looking great as usual lawdog.   Hoping to get one of these for Christmas. 

It’s so beautiful! Is this the top new kit that everyone has been waiting for? Honestly I feel like Tamiya are basically printing money with this one. And the later models, should they choose to produce them (they’d be insane to not...)

I’ve got two of the Hasegawa early models in the stash, as well as one of the J’s. I might as well just get rid of them, plus all the accumulated aftermarket. 

Anyway, looks like you’re off to an excellent start, buddy. Can’t wait to see it as you progress.

I am looking forward to comparing this kit to my Hobby Boss kit. It should be interesting.

Hot Giggity...

Been looking forward to a build log on this bird, and what better person to show it!

Looks like it's just as fabulous as the Hien.

Gorgeous pit! Does the kit provide a pilot?

Looking forward to your take on this kit. You seem to just get better and better. And with your speed I wonder if you ever sleep

Great looking office as always , eagerly awaiting the next update!

lawdog114

 

 

mustang1989

You're right about that pit. Amazing detail in there and yeah.....I'll bet that the AM guys and gals aint happy. Tamiya sure didn't miss much in there. Sorry bout the decal on the IP. I dunno about calling it good though.....with as much detail as this thing has and with the efforts you've done on the interior I'd give 'er another go.

 

 

 

 

Thanks Joe.  I'm gonna leave it be I think. It gets buried in there pretty deep anyways. 

 

Big thanks! Was looking forward to someone starting this kit- you've done your usual bang-up job on the cockpit!

Looking really nice so far. I love the cockpit details.

Front office looks awesome. Looking forward to the rest...

Well, it certainly looks like a very nice kit. And in your hands it will be a masterpiece. Thanks for taking us for the ride.

BK

I knew you would be hot on the tail of this release! I sure do love that front office.

Tickmagnet

I've been waiting for someone to get this going. Can't wait to see the finished product.

 

Glad to have you Tick

mustang1989

You're right about that pit. Amazing detail in there and yeah.....I'll bet that the AM guys and gals aint happy. Tamiya sure didn't miss much in there. Sorry bout the decal on the IP. I dunno about calling it good though.....with as much detail as this thing has and with the efforts you've done on the interior I'd give 'er another go.

 

Thanks Joe.  I'm gonna leave it be I think. It gets buried in there pretty deep anyways. 

tempestjohnny

Oh boy. You know this may be the start of you building a lot of Lightnings. Looks like a beauty.

 

Thanks Johnny...if they come out with a J  variant I may only build Tamiya Lightnings until judgement day. 

I've been waiting for someone to get this going. Can't wait to see the finished product.

You're right about that pit. Amazing detail in there and yeah.....I'll bet that the AM guys and gals aint happy. Tamiya sure didn't miss much in there. Sorry bout the decal on the IP. I dunno about calling it good though.....with as much detail as this thing has and with the efforts you've done on the interior I'd give 'er another go.