RBaer

Thanks! I really enjoy scratch work, makes my models have a little more uniqueness. I've seen some stuff both in print and on contest tables that really stand out because the modeler created something truly different, and I admire that. 

Warning: On the soap box here....  I'm a little tired of modeling "articles" that are nothing but advertisements for paint and weathering products, many showing only one or two pics of the in-progress model, or even beginning with the model in primer, with the note on construction something like "no problems were encountered during the build". Boring. I know advertising makes the magazine or web page possible, but gee whiz Wally. Am I weird?

 

Im with ya there. I do enjoy the occasional OOB project, but I also like to dress up or personalize a kit as well. If it's within my skill set, or not too great a leap, I like to create from scratch. But adding a bit of AM here or there an be a time saver too. And I'm with you on those "articles" that seem to be commercials for certain products, or projects chock full of so many AM sets that it seems to be more of a showing off of how deep of pockets the modeler has in their hobby budget.

Other side bin is done, and the corner bin cover is almost done, just need the straps.

IMG_3471 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

Other corner bin in the same state:

IMG_3470 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

And some more work on the hull front:

IMG_3472 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

Left side basket, second time. No less fiddly but at least it only took a couple of hours.

IMG_3469 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

The right side of this one will get a smaller version of this, instead of the enclosed bin on the first build.

Thanks! I really enjoy scratch work, makes my models have a little more uniqueness. I've seen some stuff both in print and on contest tables that really stand out because the modeler created something truly different, and I admire that. 

Warning: On the soap box here....  I'm a little tired of modeling "articles" that are nothing but advertisements for paint and weathering products, many showing only one or two pics of the in-progress model, or even beginning with the model in primer, with the note on construction something like "no problems were encountered during the build". Boring. I know advertising makes the magazine or web page possible, but gee whiz Wally. Am I weird?

Really love the work you are doing.....Cheers mark

Your work is amazing in your ability to add all the enhanced/improved or missing details to create a far more accurate representation of the subject. 

Thanks G. Here's a couple shots of the completed rear bin:

IMG_3396 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

IMG_3397 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

It was a lot easier this time around, and quicker since I had a "method" to my madness.

She's coming along beautifully! 

I got a start on the turret today. Lots of footman's loops here. Thsi time, instead of PE, I'm using wire, with tiny bits of .020" x .030" plastic for the feet. I like it better.

IMG_3370 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

IMG_3369 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

Now for the side baskets and rear bin....

I compromised on the fuel drums, just added enough to make them look a little more like the actual thing.

IMG_3288 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

Once they're mounted, most of the added stuff is out of sight anyway.

Here's a shot of it with all the bracket mounts reduced to a more in-scale size.

IMG_3283 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

I've also done some work on the turret, lots do do there. And i'm still debating using the kit extra fuel drums vs. scratching the empty mounts. Both are appealing.

Looks great to me, nice work! 

I did the exhaust outlets today, I think they'll clean up fine...

IMG_3240 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

IMG_3239 by Russel Baer, on Flickr

More rivets....

I guess I'm well past fifty rivets now. I need a beanie hat.

Hello!

       If you get past 50 rivets you are no longer an apprentice! By the way the build will probable somewhat better, they always are. Heeeres Watchin!!

All in.

Doubling down, eh? Excellent!