More WIP pics...
I've started on the best part of the build now, ay least my favorite segment, The finish and weathering. I've seen so many beautiful builds over the years that are of "pristine" aircraft which is great if that's your taste, but I have always been in awe of the ones that age and weather their builds. I by no means have all the answers and always strive for a more realistic look. I'm trying something different this time, where I used to use oil or sludge washes, I've been experimenting with pastel pigments (powdered chalks) this time, having seen an absolutely stunning example of this type of weathering in a magazine recently. This is my second attempt and I've already learned a lot from the first but still have much room for improvement.
Decals being complete and well dried now, 
Like I usually do, I'll start on the underside if the aircraft since they get far dirtier then the top side usually does. What I'm doing is taking artist pastel chalks and grinding them down on a 1000 to 1200 grit sand paper, then dusting off the sand paper with a stiff bristle brush to create a small mound of chalk dust. I apply with a semi stiff wedge tipped brush, I know these pigments are available from AK and Mig along with other and would likely do better, but I can buy and sand a whole lot of chalk for the price of a container of the AK. If you have the money... Why not use the best? For me this will work just fine.
Starting on the upper surfaces. I'm starting from the back and moving forward hoping to avoid unwanted contact with the surfaces already applied. Until sealed the chalks will smudge and come off if accidently touched before being sealed. That's just another reason I like building on a "Lazy Susan". I can turn and position build without having to touch.
Here the port wing has been done and the starboard is still un treated, to show the difference. One thing about doing this type weathering, It takes way more time to do then a wash does, being the pigment must be brushed ( I use a daubing to apply then a light brushing to blend in) into every single panel and recessed area one at a time. However, I think I like the subtle effect it produces better.
OK, shes all done here, Now it needs to be sealed with a "Fixant" sold on Amazon of at most good artist supply stores, The fixant applied in a light spray (WARNING, use in well ventilated area or out of doors! VERY strong odor till dried) this will preserve the pigment from being smudged during handling. I found out by trial and error that unless a very rapid drying thinner is used, the pigment will be absorbed by the top coat and either blend in to the finish or greatly lighten the effect, A fixant will protect the pigment even during a top coat application.
Just one more, I even applied some pigment to the flame dampners to make then look a bit more discolored and rusty. The smudging and paint above the dampners isn't sloppy painting ( 
) I was trting to maybe show some last minute pre flight inspection where panels were opened by dirty oily hands and hastily closed and wiped off. time and time again.
Well guys, that's all for now , and Please forgive if I got a bit long winded. As always I appreciate any tips hints or comments passed along and that is what I was trying to do. Thanks all...Shes nearing completion now, and after another commitment, I'd like to do another Night Hunter if you'll have me and as time allows.
Thanks
Doug