+FINISHED+ Spitfire Vb For Xmas ! Hobbyboss 1/32 kit.. Will I Finish...

[robvulcan]

Well I have really let myself in for it this time. I am building this as a Christmas present... I think I might have underestimated the build time...

The last 1/32 Spit I build was the old and lovely Revell Mk1 with my Dad when I was Lad but it was a lot simpler than this...

I was not sure what to expect I got this thinking WOW only £39.99 ! DEAL.. I hear it has issues and some bemoan the kit but it looks good to me. much as I LOVE Spitfires I am not an expert I know quite a bit about them but not the really hardcore details of them all.

All I can say is I have just got it opened it and can't believe how much you get its even got some PE which is new for me and for £39.99 compared to the £19.99 for the little 1/200 vulcan thats sat on top of the sprue pile for comparison I can't see whats not to like Bargain!

I am looking forward to this challenge....

Cheers Rob

Edited December 25, 2013 by robvulcan

[JOCKNEY]

Hi Rob

Do you say which Christmas ?

[robvulcan]

This Christmas..........Wonder if I can manage to squeeze in a 1/32 scale pear tree with its own partridge for then too.....

[Av8fan]

Building kits is a great hobby, but when you can give them as gift, it has special meaning. Just my 2 cents.

Are you going to use any of the Grey Matter resin bits? They do have a resin exhaust replacement if I recall correctly. Any plans to fix the horizontal stabilizer detail? Should be fairly easy to do. A bit of sanding and riveting. I seem to remember there being a 1/323nd correction for it, but could not find it.

I will be following along.

[robvulcan]

Building kits is a great hobby, but when you can give them as gift, it has special meaning. Just my 2 cents.

Are you going to use any of the Grey Matter resin bits? They do have a resin exhaust replacement if I recall correctly. Any plans to fix the horizontal stabilizer detail? Should be fairly easy to do. A bit of sanding and riveting. I seem to remember there being a 1/323nd correction for it, but could not find it.

I will be following along.

Hi I am willing to uprate parts were its easy and quickly enough to do so but I would need guidance as I am building within a short time scale.

I am mostly likely to do it OOB It would be interesting to see how it looks as is.

I bought some metal landing gear for it as I thought it might benafit from something more sturdy than plastic.

I am doing it as this Spitfire EN821 SNM of 243 SQN for my Dad he has had the Painting by Barrie A F Clark.

http://www.bonhams.c.../17254/lot/224/

The painting was owned by my Dad and hung on our wall for 20 years plus, He gave it to my Sister and now has a smaller print.

This is the thread were kind folk on here were helping me with the creation of this. Cheers Rob

http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/index.php?/topic/234950296-making-a-spit-for-a-christmas-pressie-need-some-help-with-decals/

[nimrod54]

Good luck with this Rob, I look forward to watching it progress. Boy doesn't it make your Vulcan look tiny!

[robvulcan]

Good luck with this Rob, I look forward to watching it progress. Boy doesn't it make your Vulcan look tiny!

Cheers mate I will need the luck.. I bought the Tamiya 1/48 Vb to practice on and then the Airfix MKXII in 48th thinking id have the time to do them all before xmas... I fancied a couple of 48th spits for a while you see.. But I think I will have to just jump straight in with this one. Or build the tamiya alongside it to give me some familiarity as I progress to the larger scale..

The Vulcan does indeed look small being only a little bigger than a 1/72 Spitfire.. The Vulcan in question is my latest of the small Dragons I keep making and is XM606 which I finished in late july and still have not done a RFI for yet.. I must do that soon also..

Cheers Rob

[spitfire]

Hi Rob, it does look to be a great kit, there was a quite lengthy thread on it when it first came out, here's a link to it http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/index.php?/topic/65229-hobby-boss-132-spitfire-vb-sprue-shots/page-3?hl=%20hobbyboss%20%20spitfire

It passed Edgar's inspection with some corrections pointed out, which is good enough for me, I was too lazy to spend time sanding so I bought a correction set from e bay, I don't think that they are still available but here is the old link http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170687078971&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:GB:1123

The critics certainly did not put me off as I now have 2 (one is the Trop version) in the loft !

Looking forward to your build

Cheers

Den

[NormanD]

I'm of the opinion if I buy a spitfire kit, it builds to look like a spitfire, it looks like a spitfire after I've finished, then to me it is a spitfire on my shelf, if it looks like a willy's jeep after I've finished, then I'd say the critics were right!! dodgy kit with some faults ... I always go by the understanding I was once told ... No manufacturer will ever produce an accurate kit that will please everyone.

Have fun building it Rob ... I want to see it finished by the end of the week

Norm

Edited November 23, 2013 by NormanD

[Av8fan]

I think that the HB kit will look great when you complete it. Build it, have fun. I am sure that your dad will be really happy with it. If you wrap it up in a box put a do not shake label on it.

Here are links to some of the aftermarket:

GMF exhaust:http://www.greymatterfigures.com/index.php?p=2&id=36

GMF Rotol Prop: http://www.greymatterfigures.com/index.php?p=2&id=72 As always, check your references to be sure. Perhaps one of those in the know can help?

The seat looks like it needs a bit of help. You can save some money and make your own padding out of putty, or perhaps a Barracuda studios seat from one of the local shops? http://barracudacals.com/proddetail.php?prod=BR32001 GMF does one as well. I have the Barracuda, and it is nice.

Finally the tail surfaces. Like the 1/24th kit they got metal and fabric surfaces confused. You can fix this yourself with sanding and riveting, or get the quickboost correction for the V http://www.hannants.co.uk/product/QB32114

I looked into this when I got my 1/24 Trump Spitfire. Also thanks to the review on SP&R. No, not perfect, but she will look great. The smile on your fathers face will be worth the work for sure.

Edit:Spitfire, that was the set. Thanks for posting that.

Edited November 23, 2013 by Av8fan

[robvulcan]

Hi Rob, it does look to be a great kit, there was a quite lengthy thread on it when it first came out, here's a link to it http://www.britmodeller.com/forums/index.php?/topic/65229-hobby-boss-132-spitfire-vb-sprue-shots/page-3?hl=%20hobbyboss%20%20spitfire

It passed Edgar's inspection with some corrections pointed out, which is good enough for me, I was too lazy to spend time sanding so I bought a correction set from e bay, I don't think that they are still available but here is the old link http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=170687078971&ssPageName=ADME:L:OC:GB:1123

The critics certainly did not put me off as I now have 2 (one is the Trop version) in the loft !

Looking forward to your build

Cheers

Den

Thanks for that spitfire I agree its a very nice kit. I will have to see what the problem is then make a decision if I think its worth the bother. (and time with other kits on the go at the mo and my 4 jobs...)

Me personally its good enough for me too.

I'm of the opinion if I buy a spitfire kit, it builds to look like a spitfire, it looks like a spitfire after I've finished, then to me it is a spitfire on my shelf, if it looks like a willy's jeep after I've finished, then I'd say the critics were right!! dodgy kit with some faults ... I always go by the understanding I was once told ... No manufacturer will ever produce an accurate kit that will please everyone.

Have fun building it Rob ... I want to see it finished by the wend of the week

Norm

I totally agree with you. While I like accuracy I also remember its plastic, its fun, and I appreciate models that look at bit funny when given over close scrutiny but when taken for what they are, they are a very charming nice representations. This kit however is pure spitfire to my eyes. Things like the lindberg Vulcan sure does look like a vulcan but when you look at it alot is wrong but still nice if you get me. I guess what I am trying to say is whilst I can spot issues and like accuracy I am also very forgiving too. Its just so easy to say something and someone else will take it the wrong way. I noticed upon reading about spitfires a chap called GastonMarty (I am almost feared to bring this up after reading this but last night I found what I read surprising and was not sure if this is real or a joke. I don't know who he is. but I must admit I am curious and if hes not joking hes sure a million miles away from my thinking..

read at your own peril.... I will try and get her done this week haha. hope so..

http://www.aeroscale.co.uk/modules.php?op=modload&name=SquawkBox&file=index&req=viewtopic&topic_id=171313&page=1

I think that the HB kit will look great when you complete it. Build it, have fun. I am sure that your dad will be really happy with it. If you wrap it up in a box put a do not shake label on it.

Here are links to some of the aftermarket:

GMF exhaust:http://www.greymatterfigures.com/index.php?p=2&id=36

GMF Rotol Prop: http://www.greymatterfigures.com/index.php?p=2&id=72 As always, check your references to be sure. Perhaps one of those in the know can help?

The seat looks like it needs a bit of help. You can save some money and make your own padding out of putty, or perhaps a Barracuda studios seat from one of the local shops? http://barracudacals.com/proddetail.php?prod=BR32001 GMF does one as well. I have the Barracuda, and it is nice.

Finally the tail surfaces. Like the 1/24th kit they got metal and fabric surfaces confused. You can fix this yourself with sanding and riveting, or get the quickboost correction for the V http://www.hannants.co.uk/product/QB32114

I looked into this when I got my 1/24 Trump Spitfire. Also thanks to the review on SP&R. No, not perfect, but she will look great. The smile on your fathers face will be worth the work for sure.

Edit:Spitfire, that was the set. Thanks for posting that.

Thanks for all those tips I will have a read. I will probably start this tomorrow from what I can see its like approaching a few kits to make a kit. there is the engine, interior and plane. plus guns. Looks fun..Breaking it down like that in my mind makes it seem easier..

Cheers all Rob

[JOCKNEY]

Hi Rob

I love the idea of giving someone a spitfire for Xmas didn't we all dream of that happening as a nipper, but 1/32 !

There's a fine line between ambitious and Arrgggggh ! Good luck making it the former mate.

Cheers Pat

[Andy Mac]

Good luck with the build Rob, fingers grossed you get it ready in time, no easy task.

It does look a classy kit.

[robvulcan]

Hi Rob

I love the idea of giving someone a spitfire for Xmas didn't we all dream of that happening as a nipper, but 1/32 !

There's a fine line between ambitious and Arrgggggh ! Good luck making it the former mate.

Cheers Pat

Indeed it would be lovely to give someone a spitfire for Christmas particularly when your dad is the one who got you into modelling and loves spits he told me fun stories about making old keel craft spits putting extra bands in and the. Finding it suddenly would collapse nose to tail hahaha. Lets face it most of us wanted a spitfire for Christmas. You can't go wrong with a spit really. I wonder how many kids will get one of the new "quick build" airfix kits (they look fun don't they ) I bet many adults get bought them too. Something fun to build on Christmas Day. Thanks Rob

Good luck with the build Rob, fingers grossed you get it ready in time, no easy task.

It does look a classy kit.

Thanks for the support I'm sure my usual never empty cup of coffee will get me there.

I'm guessing most the interior parts are that funny interior green color.

I hope my tub has not dried out.

I'm surprised at the amount of internals it even has the fuel tank !!

Cheers Rob

[Steviej]

dear santa, i would like what he`s got

have been a good boy this year

[robvulcan]

I hope you get what you want for Christmas and don't forget its ok to buy pressies for yourself..

Hopefully I will start looking at this in a bit. Its would be nice to make a good start on the internals as after looking it it thats really the main kit. Apart from that its just the same as any spit really chuck the fuselage together wings and tail surfaces together put the nose and bits on and job done.

When its finished I think I am going to put it on a a picture frame edged piece of plywood with a load of grass on it. I am thinking of having the wing panels loose so the bullets and machine guns can be seen. I don't know what the fittings are for the engine covers but it would be nice if they can be made removable and replaceable.

It does seem a waist to not see all the internal detail yet at the same time there is nothing like the beauty and clean lines of a nice spitfire when shes complete.

Cheers Rob

[RNoAF Aerobatic Team]

This is exciting:-)

[robvulcan]

Let Battle commence !..

I have now started There are a lot of parts but the instructions are clear and helpfully there seems to be a sprue dedicated to each section of the kit very nice I like the logic.

I made a start on the seat.

The fit of the parts so far is absolutely wonderful it just literally falls together dry fit seems to even hold together ! (something I am not used too)

The only area I don't like is the over sized attachment to the parts tree its quite scary removing the small parts. But I heard a rumour that this is a shrunken version of the trumpy 1/24 so maybe thats why. here you can see what I mean on the part nearest the camera.

and some more parts....

This bit is new on me. never Before have I had a kit with a PE set in. I would not mind some tips in how I should approach the seat belt straps in this next session. Should I fit first paint later. Paint first fit later.

Cheers Rob

[robvulcan]

I take it this bit fits here ?

[robvulcan]

Well I must admit I am so tired today I am nearly falling asleep,

I am now on one of my epically long coffee breaks as I plot my next line of attack researching Spitfire stuff I think this is another great part of the hobby. (not the just the coffee) I see spits seem to mostly be interior green I am trying to figure out what the best colours to use etc and figure out the best way to try and shape these seat belts/straps.. and I don't know why at this stage I am thinking about the cockpit mirror but I am thinking of going down the foil route and just wondering whats the best glue for attaching foil I guess CA.

In the process of watching spitfire stuff I found this short and fascinating documentary about an American Spitfire Recon pilot who late in life was shown footage of his crash-landing 40 plus years after it had happened and never seeing the footage but knowing of its existence.

It is an emotional watch very recommended. I didn't know the Americans had photo Spits. Cool indeed to know.

I will update again soon Cheers Rob

[NormanD]

I was expecting it to be at the painting stage by now ...good start Rob

[robvulcan]

I was expecting it to be at the painting stage by now ...good start Rob

Hahaha ,,I am only drinking coffee not taking other substances

Cheers Rob

[Kallisti]

This is a great kit, I've had a go at the Vb Trop version but sadly made a complete balls up of it by trying to convert it to a Vc Trop by substituting resin wings. I plan on having another go at it in the new year and sticking with the Vb Trop as an 81 Sqn plan that my father worked on during Operation Torch 1942-43

[robvulcan]

Hi Kallisti sorry to hear you made a balls of it. sometimes those sort of builds end up your best builds when you have taken a break and look on it as a fresh challenge to see if you can rescue it.

I would like to know how it went wrong, I am guessing resin wings in this scale would be ridiculously heavy to attach successfully and then for the poor delicate landing legs to take all that weight..

The Trop Spits do look menacing with the big cowling underneath Must have ago at a smaller one someday.

Cheers Rob

[spitfire]

Yes don't underestimate the effect that the weight of resin can have on undercarriage, this is with white metal undercarriage legs

Cheers

Dennis