And Now For Something Completely Different

QUOTE: I'm up here in the great white north (Wisconsin)... but unfortunately will be at drill on your birthday. Live fire ex. with the Paladin. I guess I'll be having at least a little fun!

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw Okay, I give, Ron. Why would women like Kelly's Heros?? I like the movie. Anyway, she won't be home. She has to be at work by 6:45. Why don't y'all come over for a building paty!! Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw Thank you for the Maus wishes, too. But the 31st is a payday weekend, and it's not too far a drive for me!! lol My wishes are with you to gain a picture maker of your own. I'd really like to see some of your work. I am excited for you. Happy Birthday, again; Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw Birthday's this weekend. Maybe I'll come up with some new kits!! Still looking for that Maus! Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by J-Hulk [Has anyone mentioned the Weasel yet?

QUOTE: Originally posted by djmodels1999 Well, have been doing a bit of research .... My head is spinning now...

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw I looked at my 7 year old sons homework last night. They have him writing numbers in Japanese! Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw btw, you're getting close to that 5th star yourself. Are you and Shermie going to have a Monty/Patton type turf war?? Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by wipw Brian; Where did you get the stencils? Who made them and what's the item number?? Hate to keep bothering you on this, but after all, you da man! (Late night again, huh?? How's the King coming??) Thanks; Bill

QUOTE: Originally posted by J-Hulk Those Japanese "names" don't really have meaning, per se. Not like "Tiger" or "Sherman," anyway. They were just simple designations. --- I think!

QUOTE: Originally posted by M1abramsRules imagine doing a tank to look like it was for the 17th century!

Originally posted by Build22 Bill - you're right - I stand corrected - duct tape is actually the cure-all for everything /quote] i forget who said it but: u only need 2 tools: duct tape and wd40... if it moves and u don't want it to, use the duct tape. if it doesn't move and u want it to, use the wd40. frosty Reply Edit Build22 Member since May 2003 From: Upstate NY Posted by Build22 on Friday, October 10, 2003 12:40 PM Ron - Hysterical ! See - there are many uses Here you go - just a little refresher before you jump into that involved project - in case you forgot how to do "the stretched sprue method" ( lol ) There's probably more but that's all I found right away. Jim [IMG] Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 10, 2003 12:39 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by renarts Frosty, DJ, I double dog dare you. Mike Mike: seeing as how we're talking Leopard and Panther, maybe that should be a double cat dare ? i'll do the pink Panther since dj has got an airbrush and knows how to use it already. he'll do a great job on the Leopard, i'm sure... i was thinking of a retro job for the lep, using ambush camo as a kind of reference but trying to bring out more of the animal aspect. i don't think my painting skills are up to the level of that concept yet, so i'd better set a more achieveable goal for myself. and i'm keeping that 2nd kit (and idea) for after i get an airbrush and start learning how to use it ! frosty Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 10, 2003 12:22 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by shermanfreak You gonna make stretched sprue pearl handled pistols too ? Robert: Didn't the General himself say they were ivory ? I remember in the movie, George C. says emphatically "Pearl is for pimps!" or something to that effect... either way, i see Verlooten has released Patton (and Willie !) in 1/35 . i may have to get those figs... best, frosty Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 10, 2003 12:03 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by shermanfreak Don't forget to shine up that turret to represent his ever glossy helmet Ron !!!! You gonna make stretched sprue pearl handled pistols too ? I think the pistols are beyond my ability, but I'm willing to try anything. You bet I have his helmet in mind!! I keep thinking of that Hawley fiber liner they have on display at Knox, as well as all his medals. I'm also considering a little 'retro' color in reference to his Command Combat Car from before WWII. Ron. Reply Edit shermanfreak Member since January 2003 Posted by shermanfreak on Friday, October 10, 2003 11:49 AM Don't forget to shine up that turret to represent his ever glossy helmet Ron !!!! You gonna make stretched sprue pearl handled pistols too ? Happy Modelling and God Bless Robert Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Friday, October 10, 2003 7:19 AM The Patton is off the shelf and back in the 'shop'. Decals are off and it's ready to be customized for the General. I think I'll use the stretched sprue method for antennas, grab rails and a boarding ladder. Maybe even custom make some streched sprue track.[:0] It's fun to think of what theme to use here, a tank FOR the General or one that displays only his personality... I guess both would be pretty similar. Now, where'd I leave that box of sprue??? Ron Reply Edit South Aussie Member since August 2003 From: South Australia Posted by South Aussie on Friday, October 10, 2003 4:42 AM Great work guys - love the base for the Lee. Mike's tiger is unbelievable ( maybee we should start calling mike "Tigerfreak") Wayne I enjoy getting older, especially when I consider the alternative. Reply Build22 Member since May 2003 From: Upstate NY Posted by Build22 on Thursday, October 9, 2003 11:13 PM Bill - you're right - I stand corrected - duct tape is actually the cure-all for everything Ron - yeah, see that it could be done. I'm just goofin'. I'm sick and tired of seeing "the stretched sprue method" everywhere Jim [IMG] Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, October 9, 2003 1:10 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by Build22 What do you mean Ron, According to my Tamiya instructions ( in every model since the beginning of time) "the stretched Sprue Method" can do anything (lol) It is the great equalizer, the cure all of modeling !!!! You had me there, thought you were serious for a second! Actually, we DID use the method on the main gun of a 1/72 scale Tiger I when we were kids (Airfix kit... all that was around 'back then'... really.). It curled into a nice little cork screw just like the German tanks in the 'Haunted Tank' comics we used to love. The next battle though, the tank was useless... dumb idea at that time... Ron Reply Edit M1abramsRules Member since June 2003 Posted by M1abramsRules on Thursday, October 9, 2003 1:06 PM okay, who wants to do the scorpion? Doing a tank after the person it was named for sounds interesting. (especially a civil war on)(hmmm... maybe sheridan) Those 3 were interesting ideas. great work, robert and mike!!!!! Reply Duke Maddog Member since June 2003 From: Rowland Heights, California Posted by Duke Maddog on Thursday, October 9, 2003 11:54 AM *Get's dfown on his knees and bows low* I bow to the Masters in the presence of incredible greatness! Maybe someday I'll have something that good. Sherm, I'd never have thought about doing Civil War Armor. Yours are outstanding! I love how you adapted the insignia of the unit to fit on the tanks. Ingenious! And Congrats on your 2000 Post! And Mike, the Tiger is breathtaking! TenchiMuro is right, you should take those to some Contests. I smell trophies in the winds! The only "what if" kit I ever built was the German batttleship Tirpitz. I rigged a whole new Antenna arrangement, replaced some guns with modern Italian made guns, mounted a few CWIS Gatlings, AA Missiles, and a few Exocet and Harpoon launchers, and even added a helicopter on a helicopter deck! A few Navy guys said it was a believable concept. Keep up the great Work guys! Never did anything with Armor though. As kullgan said, too many other thyings to build! Reply wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Thursday, October 9, 2003 11:21 AM What! I thought the cure-all for anything was duct tape...Where did I go wrong!!! Oh the shame,,,,the shame. Bill Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply Build22 Member since May 2003 From: Upstate NY Posted by Build22 on Thursday, October 9, 2003 8:13 AM What do you mean Ron, According to my Tamiya instructions ( in every model since the beginning of time) "the stretched Sprue Method" can do anything (lol) It is the great equalizer, the cure all of modeling !!!! Jim [IMG] Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Thursday, October 9, 2003 7:45 AM QUOTE: Originally posted by Build22 Wipw - That models perfect - All you would have to do is use "the Stretched Sprue Metod" to put a curl on the barrel - there's your trunk curled in the air. The ears may be another issue BTW - Smith M - nice cartoon Ouch! OOOO! Terrible thing to do to a main gun!! I found it on the shelf last night... not too well painted, asking for a repaint. PATTON'S PATTON An M48A3 just beggin' to be made into the General's ride. Give me a few weeks...(after Halloween) Maybe I'll even be able to post a photo by then. Ron. Reply Edit djmodels1999 Member since December 2002 From: United Kingdom / Belgium Posted by djmodels1999 on Thursday, October 9, 2003 2:01 AM Mike, Bill, I'm on it! Frosty, let's show them! Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 9:27 PM One for Shermanfreak: The Grizzly A Canadian made Sherman. Reply Edit stinger Member since January 2003 From: Everywhere Posted by stinger on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 9:15 PM I second wipw's motion for the FSM gallery! How 'bout it editor's? I think they both deserve a special article. Incredible builds and originality, guys!! Absolutely makes me want to build a tank. Robert, congrats on your 2k achievement. How do you find time to model so well, share with us here, and keep the Mrs. happy? Mrs. Sherman also deserves the highest of admiration (Does she outrank you at home?) Maybe she should market her work to the modelling world. Great work Ms. Sherman! Mike, I have to admit it. I model in aircraft and so don't view a lot of tanks, but that camo scheme looked so real that it took me a while to get what was really going on! (could be something to do with having JUST watched yet another tiger attack story on CNN, seriously!) The white chest and nose really show your attention to easily overlooked details that make all the difference. Get that high grass thing going for your upcoming FSM spread! Awesome work, gentlemen. May an Angel be your wingman, and the Sun be always at your six Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 6:42 PM Nice work guys!!! I think it all looks great except the scrambled eggs around the general's stars [:0] I also use an aztec to airbrush. Mine is single action, requires a little tweaking each time, but practice is all it takes to develop a technique. Today a friend of mine watched me paint and kept asking " why this, or why that" and I told him "this is what works for me" (pressure, thinning, etc) so anyone having a problem with any airbrush just need to do what Renarts said, and PRACTICE Thanks for sharing these fine pieces of work. Can't wait to see the base for the tiger. Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 5:27 PM Well, I've been feeling a little silly lately, so I may just go out and buy a panther this weekend to have a pink panther. It sure will be interesting to see how that turns out. (I wonder if the new Dragon 1/72 panther will be in yet) Reply Edit shermanfreak Member since January 2003 Posted by shermanfreak on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 5:15 PM Lots of room for additional projects in this thread guys and gals ....... Leopards, Panthers, Maus ... bring em' on. Happy Modelling and God Bless Robert Reply Build22 Member since May 2003 From: Upstate NY Posted by Build22 on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 4:44 PM Wipw - That models perfect - All you would have to do is use "the Stretched Sprue Metod" to put a curl on the barrel - there's your trunk curled in the air. The ears may be another issue BTW - Smith M - nice cartoon Jim [IMG] Reply renarts Member since April 2003 From: Sunny Florida Posted by renarts on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 4:15 PM Frosty, DJ, I double dog dare you. Mike Mike "Imagination is the dye that colors our lives" Marcus Aurellius A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, "Damn...that was fun!" Reply wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 3:54 PM dj, great idea!! I don't have much paint on my Elefant, yet!! Trunk could be a problem, though!! lol Frosty; QUOTE: the dilemma of having something to build or something to document what i'm building That's what birthdays and Christmas are for!! LOL Both of you could do a leopard, though. Would be cool to see how the two of you approached it differently! Mike; Thanks for all your comments on the Aztek. I've got one and have used the red tip mostly. (I mostly paint enamels). You've given me great food for thought. My brush is doing weird things and blowing whatever I'm using at an angle out of the tip. Doesn't matter which tip I use. I've really cleaned inside the thing, so don't know what's causing it. Only think I can think of is that I knocked something out of alignment in there. Going to have to pack it off to Testor to be checked out, I guess. Best to all of you; Bill Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 3:48 PM how about a Mouse (Maus) scaring an Elephant Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 1:15 PM Imagine the fun one could have with an Ontos??? Greek for 'Thing'... I believe. Ron. Reply Edit djmodels1999 Member since December 2002 From: United Kingdom / Belgium Posted by djmodels1999 on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 12:59 PM Oh! I'm too late then... I just bought, like today (!), a 1/72 Revell Leopard to do the spotted cammo...! Beat me to it, Frosty... I guess I'm gonna have to find something else then! The Elefant..? Would not be as striking would it not..! Maybe the Pz II ausf L 'Luchs' (Lynx)... Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 12:28 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by J-Hulk OK, who's gonna do a Leopard 2A5, appropriately spotted? And I suppose we could expect a black or even PINK Panther, as well! i'll volunteer for either the spotted Leopard ( now i know why i bought that 2nd kit; is it ok if it's a 1A4 instead of a 2A5? and in 1/72, of course...) or the pink Panther ausf g ! (Libyan desert camo ?) and i'm trying to save up for a digital camera, but i have to stop buying kits for awhile... the dilemma of having something to build or something to document what i'm building is a new one for me (never wanted to take pix before seeing all of this great work u folks r doing; now i can't wait to show my stuff to u, even if it's nowhere near the standard i've seen around here !) on the main topic, these 3 builds r just some of the most beautiful work i've ever seen, from concept to execution. i continue to be amazed and inspired by u people, and i'm trying to apply all the stuff i'm learning here to the models i'm building, technique by technique. thx for being so generous with ur work, ur knowledge and ur time, all of u... FSM rules ! frosty Reply Edit wildwilliam Member since December 2009 From: West Grove, PA Posted by wildwilliam on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 6:31 AM Mike, i appreciate you taking the time to reply in such detail! ever since my buddy helped me get straightened out w/ paint, thinning, pressure, thumbwheel, etc, i have been VERY happy w/ my Aztek. i am in agreement that it is not the tool that is the problem. i have not figured out how to get (relatively) fine lines just yet, but i think i am getting closer. i did not think the black nozzle was the one for this, so i can't wait to try it. i have been using the black nozzle for 'high volume' applications like Future. i will have to experiment more. i did lower the pressure some, and tried to use the tan nozzle close in to highlight some panels on a small winged thing last night. (perfect test bed chorus the tread-heads!) results were better than i expected, but needs some practice. i don't want to keep this OT discussion going, and deflect the thread from the excellent work you and Sherm did, so i will hush up now. thanks for the advice & inspiration. ed. Reply renarts Member since April 2003 From: Sunny Florida Posted by renarts on Wednesday, October 8, 2003 12:18 AM Hey Ed, The Aztek is a victim of expectations greater than ability I fear. I've fought that fight in the paint forum and in most cases I think what happens is people expect the Aztek to do something it is either capable of doing, they set their own expectation higher than their ability, or as a result of failed expectation blame the airbrush. Very few practice or experiment they just fill, point and shoot. If you look back through the archives you'll see almost as many derogatory comments on lost time, difficult handling and prblems with brushed like pasche, thayer chandler and iwata. Not to say Aztek doesn't have its shortcommings, but if you don't expect it to do more than it is capable of, you won't be disapointed. I think alot of people are turned off by its light weight. But I digress. I use pretty much the same set up you use. The tan tip for most of my work. By adjusting the flow (the roller in the back) you can really get some nice paint control. For really fine work, I use the black tip. I also add a few drops of acrylic airbrush medium which seems to keep it running smooth. A quick clean between cups and I'm ready to go. I also keep a "sacrificial board" near my paint set-up when I shoot. This allows me to make sure everything is flowing properly, and make any fine or tight adjustments necessary before I shift to the model. I always make a couple of passes just to make sure before I lay down some paint on the model. The 3:1 or 4:1 mix is pretty good for dark colors and I use a 2:1 or 1:1 for light colors. (less particulate in the paint) On really fine work, I get real close to the object. And knock down the pressure a little, between 15-20 psi. Don't try to do it all in one pass. You aren't doing illustration work so the paint you are using is heavier. It will stay sharper and you will be much happier if you make a couple of passes when you do fine work. (This may be where alot of guys go wrong and expect the airbrush to do too much) Since this is acrylic paint on primered plastic it will have different application characteristics than guache on illustration board. Thus what may be accomplished in one pass when doing illustration work may take a few passes on the model. Patience. Practice and Patience. Spend a day playing with the Aztek and trying stuff out. Every combination etc. to see what offers the best results. Different lines, the way you hold it, is it perpendiuclar or are you shooting at an angle, different tips, pressure combinations. I also use a bird feeding syringe (available at pet stores) for measuring paint going in the cup. This gives me consistent results and I keep a little notebook of paint color formulas, additives, and thinning ratios. It is a very capable brush and works well on most everything. I had thought about picking up an Iwata just to try something different but the more I think about it the time I would lose in cleeaning, tuning, repairing and or waiting for parts etc. I could better spend my time building. Although that new metal body Aztek has definately caught my attention. As I was doing this project I seriously thought about the Leopard and Panther that has been mentioned. Just for a change of pace but I think more importantly others are willing to try something like this. Too often we get carried away with matching exact colors, amount of detail and variant configurations with what particular markings that I think detracts from the overall experience. As Robert said, this was sort of inspired by a few of the rivet counting threads and the purist vs. the leisure builder. Mind you I will count some serious rivets and I appreciate those guys alot. Because of them we have a wonderful aftermarket to choose from and the quality of kits has gone up. I am guilty of wanting to look at my kits or builds and wanting the exact copy of the 1:1 vehicle. If it existed on the real thing I want it on my model, but I also think that it can be balanced with personal enjoyment and frivality that makes this a fun hobby. Now excuse me, time to look under the bed and in the closet, I think Whitmann's ghost is prowling around looking for the defiler of Tigers. Thanks for the compliments, Mike Mike "Imagination is the dye that colors our lives" Marcus Aurellius A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, "Damn...that was fun!" Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 11:49 PM Definately worth more than one look guys. Somehow, the way you guys have presented this "Themed" approach it all just feels natural, not forced. By the sounds of it, you guys have definately become "trendsetters" Thanks for sharing. Sherm, congrats on the big 2k, but isn't this a bit of a come down? You are often called an " Armour modelling god" at this site, now you have been demoted to a Modelling General. Ah well, at least they didn't call you a Field Marshal - given your inclination to all things OD. Happy Modelling Peter Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 4:25 PM I don'l really think I can say anything that hasnt been said yet. I can say, however, that when I saw that tiger, my jaw litteraly dropped. I think my sig says it best. Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 3:01 PM QUOTE: Originally posted by J-Hulk OK, who's gonna do a Leopard 2A5, appropriately spotted? Heh, heh, heh.... it's your suggestion! We'll expect the results in the future!!! Ron Reply Edit wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 1:15 PM Got'cha!! Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply J-Hulk Member since February 2003 From: Tochigi, Japan Posted by J-Hulk on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 12:53 PM Hey, you're right, Bill! Forgot all about that kit. I was, of course, thinking more along the lines of a pink or black Sd. Kfz. 171 Panther D, A, or G! ~Brian Reply wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 11:03 AM Brian; You're too late. They already have a Pink Panther! Tamiya kit #35076. It's an SAS Land Rover!! But I could handle black!! Could really be quite a challange to do it and still be able to see any detail. Bill Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply wildwilliam Member since December 2009 From: West Grove, PA Posted by wildwilliam on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 10:12 AM Mike, beautiful job! i was flabbergasted when you said you used an Aztek for all the work. it is the same airbrush i use, but it gets nothing but bashed on the Paint forum. i was getting the impression that no 'serious' modelers used them. :-) is the 'fine tip' the tan one? i have not tried to do anything that requires precision work, but i use the tan nozzle mostly. i use the black for Future and the grey/purple looking one for Dullcote. could you tell me what kind of set up you run? i shoot mostly Tamiya acrylics thinned between 2:1 and 3:1 (paint:thinner) 20 psi, tan nozzle. are you using lower pressure? how far from the plastic is the nozzle? thanks, ed. Reply J-Hulk Member since February 2003 From: Tochigi, Japan Posted by J-Hulk on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 9:42 AM OK, who's gonna do a Leopard 2A5, appropriately spotted? And I suppose we could expect a black or even PINK Panther, as well! ~Brian Reply wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Tuesday, October 7, 2003 9:30 AM The darkside reaches out and plucks another unsuspecting wing-walker! Go for it Paul! Glad to have you. Bill Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply paulnchamp Member since January 2003 From: Warwick, RI Posted by paulnchamp on Monday, October 6, 2003 9:50 PM Those are SUPERB - almost enough to make me want to put down my ships and planes and build a piece of armor!! Bravo Zulu! Paul "A man's GOT to know his limitations." Reply Keyworth Member since January 2003 From: NE Georgia Posted by Keyworth on Monday, October 6, 2003 8:47 PM Those three kits are fabulous. I especially like the Lee :). Great thread guys. - Ed "There's no problem that can't be solved with a suitable application of high explosives" Reply therriman Member since January 2003 From: Central MI Posted by therriman on Monday, October 6, 2003 7:25 PM Those were 3 totally AWSOME models guys. Tim H. "If your alone and you meet a Zero, run like hell. Your outnumbered" Capt Joe Foss, Guadalcanal 1942 Real Trucks have 18 wheels. Anything less is just a Toy! I am in shape. Hey, Round is a shape! Reality is a concept not yet proven. Reply mark956 Member since February 2003 From: USA Posted by mark956 on Monday, October 6, 2003 5:31 PM Great job you guys. Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 5:19 PM Very Very Cool!! All three models look Great!! Being from VA I am kinda partial though :) Reply Edit renarts Member since April 2003 From: Sunny Florida Posted by renarts on Monday, October 6, 2003 5:09 PM Thanks guys, Tigerman, The paint was done in steps. First it was partially assembled and all the parts layed out and dry fitted. This all went out to the garage and got primered with white automotive primer. This was allowed to cure for 24 hours. The rest was then assembled a bit more and then painted. The overall was white. Then a light orange almost yellow was used to outline the transition areas between white and orange. This was allowed to set up and then the orange was sprayed. Once this cured for 24 hours I could start the striping. The striping was done in a single hour long paint session. Since we print for a Tiger Rescue organization I had access to real tigers and photos of tigers for reference. I wanted the tank to be layed out like a tiger so the markings follow those of real tigers. The part I was specifically concerned with was the markings of the top of the turret. All tigers have a specific mark on the tops of their heads. It looks very close to the chinese character for King. (a line with three slashes). The turret was done separate from the chassis but other than that it was pretty much an easy paint shooting session. All totaled maybe 3-4 hours of painting. It took me longer to do the overspray for fading and the drybrushing and weathering than it did to paint the patterns. I used an Aztek for all the airbrushing with a fine tip for the striping. It took some setup time to get the lines I wanted and the paint mix right but otherwise a pretty nice job. Mike Mike "Imagination is the dye that colors our lives" Marcus Aurellius A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, "Damn...that was fun!" Reply tigerman Member since March 2003 From: Rain USA, Vancouver WA Posted by tigerman on Monday, October 6, 2003 3:36 PM Dave Toews, the Dark Side tends to reel them in! Lol. Go for it. "It is well that war is so terrible, lest we grow too fond of it."-R.E.Lee  Eric  Reply wipw Member since January 2003 From: Utah - USA Posted by wipw on Monday, October 6, 2003 1:56 PM To echo Dwight...W O W ! ! ! I don't know that there's a lot more I can say that hasn't already been said. But I share everyone's opinion. I've never seen such works of art in models. Mike, you might not want to get that cat too close to Roy (as in Sigfried and Roy). He might squash that thing, it's sooo realistic! How about doing a thread and sharing how you did that puppy?? I think both of you should, at the very least, submit those to FSM to be published in the Gallery! I love yours, Robert! Great job!! I love the colors and the idea. And Mrs Shermie should get an award! Great Job! Bill Bill ========================================================== DML M4A2 Red Army ========================================================== ========================================================== -- There is a fine line between "hobby" and "mental illness". (Author unknown) Reply lizardqing Member since July 2003 From: Dahlonega, Georgia Posted by lizardqing on Monday, October 6, 2003 1:55 PM Absolutely great jobs there guys. Love the ideas. The tiger stripping is a eye widening thing to look at. Thanks for doing them and letting us have a look. Chris The Scale Firehouse The Lizard's Workshop Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 1:27 PM Totally Ah struck by your armor guys, makes me want to tinker with a tank too. Reply Edit djmodels1999 Member since December 2002 From: United Kingdom / Belgium Posted by djmodels1999 on Monday, October 6, 2003 12:33 PM A bit late, but yes indeed, congrats on your 2,000 post. You truly deserve that 5th star. As for the models, superb as always but I have to admit the Mike's took my breath away. What a splendid idea! And what workmanship! More like that, please! Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 12:14 PM ive got to say they are Stunning very good it makes a wellcome change to green instead of the Grassy base for the Tiger you could have it in a 6th floor appartment in New York with an alligater or paint on White for a Las Vegas Tiger ( i dont know where you would put the figure ) are there any more on the Horizon ? Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 11:34 AM WOW!! Absolutely AMAZING, y'all! I especially love the Lee! LEE'S BOYS RIDE AGAIN! YEE-HAW! I have actually been working on a 1/48 scale M2A2 Bradley for the past several months now in ANVA(Army of Northern VirginiA) markings, looks like y'all beat me to the punch! I geuss I'll keep on trucking, though, maybe I can show it off in this topic when it's done?(with y'all's permission, of course) Right now, I'm just doing the last few bits of seam-filling, gap removal, and finishing the scratbuilt cargo tray(that's a whole story in itself, I made the mistake of buying a Zhengdefu armor kit!)... It should be ready after that! Oh, and the Tiger-Striped Tiger DEFINITELY comes in as a close second! Have either of y'all thought about taking these on the Contest Circuit? IPMS would absolutely LOVE those guys!! Reply Edit tigerman Member since March 2003 From: Rain USA, Vancouver WA Posted by tigerman on Monday, October 6, 2003 11:32 AM First off, congrats to Robert a.k.a Shermanfreak on your 2000 post and counting. Second, fantastic work on your projects. It's refreshing to see something standard in a whole new perspective. Awesome job Mrs. Shermie on the bases- so cool. Mike, your Tiger is just something else. Fantastic work, how long did it take to do the paint job. Thanks again guys for sharing your ingenious project with us and here's one hoping you do more. "It is well that war is so terrible, lest we grow too fond of it."-R.E.Lee  Eric  Reply shermanfreak Member since January 2003 Posted by shermanfreak on Monday, October 6, 2003 10:38 AM Thanks for the kind words guys .... these were certainly a blast to build. I'd be remiss not to thank Mrs. Shermie for doing the photo work on the bases, she's so good to me. My Brother Eric - General of the Army .... kind of has a ring to it .... I like it. My Other Brother Eric - Yes indeed this is the one that put the DW on hold. A day off now and then time to get going on that baby again. Roadkill - Haven't read any of those books. What started this was a "what if" forum that ran here long ago. We heard a lot of people talk about what they were going to do but didn't see much for results. So we just kind of went and did it. Merlin - best be careful .... you mind find you like it on this side of the "tracks" Happy Modelling and God Bless Robert Reply r13b20 Member since April 2014 Posted by r13b20 on Monday, October 6, 2003 9:54 AM I'm dumbfounded! or just found dumb! Too cool I bow before two masters. Whats a little grass-hopper to do? Congrats to you both. Awesome! Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 8:38 AM Absolutely incredible, Gentlemen. I have no words. Just amazing. Also, much congrats to Robert. WE are all proud of you, young warrior. 2K! It's almost as amazing as the Cubs! demono69 Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 7:38 AM The piping around the General's stars is too funny! Great imagination! That tiger.... WOW. Too bad they never did a real one like that... NICE work both of you! I wonder if I have a spare tank laying around for some 'cowmouflage'? After all, I do live in Wisconsin! Ron. Reply Edit Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 6:58 AM Great stuff guys. The "alternate reality" concept just added about another 200 ideas to my already monsterus "things to build" list. Reply Edit erush Member since May 2003 From: USA, GA Posted by erush on Monday, October 6, 2003 6:46 AM Absolutely incredible !!! That is awesome, ingenious, beautiful even!!!! Robert, your's are.........ok........... (I owed you that ) Really though, very nice work as always Robert. I'd say that was worth putting off the Dragon Wagon for a bit. I guess since you've got 5 stars that makes you General of the Army now!! Troops, a-ten-shon!!!, present arms....order arms, at ease Mike, beautiful piece man. What can I say...that is definitely a piece of art!!!! Original and well done!! I've come to expect that kind of work from you now Capt. Hook!! AAARRRrrrrrrrrrrrr Eric Hi, I'm Eric and I'm a Modelholic too. I think I have PE poisioning. "Friendly fire...isn't" Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 6:27 AM Mike & Robert, I have to say that, those are simply amazing. Robert, the base idea for the Sherm & Lee....brilliant! Mike, a Tiger, with REAL Tiger stripes? I love it! [:0] PS.......... Robert, Was this the one you were talking about in your "Dragon Wagon" post? You said you had another project that you were working on. Reply Edit Build22 Member since May 2003 From: Upstate NY Posted by Build22 on Monday, October 6, 2003 5:58 AM Wow ! "Alternative AFV Modeling" Great job guys. I like it. And Congrats - Sherm - Do we have to salute after every reply, now that you have 5 stars Jim [IMG] Reply J-Hulk Member since February 2003 From: Tochigi, Japan Posted by J-Hulk on Monday, October 6, 2003 5:10 AM Robert and Mike, you guys are amazing! That is some very refreshing modeling right there! Civil War tanks a very tigerish Tiger; who could ask for more? Actually, I'd love to see more of this kinda stuff! ~Brian Reply Dwight Ta-ala Member since July 2003 From: Philippines Posted by Dwight Ta-ala on Monday, October 6, 2003 1:44 AM Wow. Reply roadkill_275 Member since September 2003 From: North East Texas Posted by roadkill_275 on Monday, October 6, 2003 1:19 AM WOW, That is three really awesome models. Have you read any of the books by Harry Turtledove? They deal with alternative history and are chock full of nifty ideas. The ones dealing with the South winning the war have given me more ideas on new projects than I can handle, Like a US Albatros scout. The books later in the series deal with the time frame around WWI and includes armour. Your pics make want to try some of these. By the way in the books they're called barrels. Kevin M. Bodkins "Meddle not in the affairs of dragons, for thou art crunchy and taste good with ketchup" American By Birth, Southern By the Grace of God! www.milavia.com Christian Modelers For McCain Reply Anonymous Member since November 2005 Posted by Anonymous on Monday, October 6, 2003 12:34 AM Awesome pieces of work, you guys!!! It was worth the suspense, Robert. Congrats on the Big 2K! Looking forward to more of your posts and pics. Merlin..... Gee,I think this is the first time I have ever posted in the armor section...........I feel like I'm in the wrong neighborhood! Reply Edit renarts Member since April 2003 From: Sunny Florida Posted by renarts on Monday, October 6, 2003 12:12 AM Thanks Robert. Outstanding job on your projects and the bases are absolutley show stoppers. Ever think about releasing those under the Franklin Mint as collectors additions? When I set about to do the Tiger, I wanted it to look as though it were done as a standard camo pattern for Tanks. (Works for real tigers doesn't it?) As Robert said it is entirely OOB and the only addition are the figures. The base will have a pathway and tall grass added one day just to add to the whole concept of "Tiger in the tall grass." I'm really happy with this project and I'm proud to have been able to do this with Robert especailly as a commerative of his 2000. Is serendipity cool or what? Mike Mike "Imagination is the dye that colors our lives" Marcus Aurellius A good friend will come and bail you out of jail...but, a true friend will be sitting next to you saying, "Damn...that was fun!" Reply 12345 JOIN OUR COMMUNITY! Our community is FREE to join. To participate you must either login or register for an account. Login Register SEARCH FORUMS FREE NEWSLETTER SIGN UP By signing up you may also receive reader surveys and occasional special offers. We do not sell, rent or trade our email lists. View our Privacy Policy. 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