The BIG one (Tamiya 1:32)

[wimbledon99]

A couple of years ago, I came up with the the idea a building the same aircraft in 4 scales, and having never had a go an an F-16, I chose that.

 

Last year, I built these (1:144, 1:72, and 1:48)..............................

 

 

....................................... and with the box in the background saved for the GB, this year I'm going to have a go at the following

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Time may be a challenge here, but even if I build the aircraft without the payload, it should qualify for the gallery

 

 

[Col.]

Nice to see you're going to get stuck into this one Nigel

[wimbledon99]

Thanks Col

 

Not sure I've seen so much plastic in one box!!

[Wings unlevel]

What a great project Nigel! Finishing the big beastie here will be a fitting finale for it. 👍

 

Will watch with interest how all that plastic comes together!

[wimbledon99]

Hoping it’s not more plastic then I can chew 🫣

[wimbledon99]

In advance of the fun commencing on Saturday, and following permission (25% rule), I've built the engine and trolley. This is to get ahead of time and hopefully allow me to complete the build by the end of the GB. Pictures aren't brilliant but they'll do for now

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[wimbledon99]

Quick update on the build. Lots of parts with block colours awaiting detail and some weathering. I thought I'd try out some of the AK acrylic markers for the detail so just waiting for the postman to put them through the door some time soon

 

 

[Col.]

Nice base coats you've laid down Nigel. It'll be interesting to see how the AK markers do for weathering work.

[wimbledon99]

Thanks Col.

 

I plan to use the markers for picking out detail, rather than the usual 'brush and paint pot'.

 

As for weathering, I'm not sure where to start. This being the first 1:32 jet I've built, and the size of the areas to cover (particularly the engine bay), I feel there's the potential to cock this up royally at this stage of the build. Will be a case of 'grit teeth and go for it' I think!!  I've had a look at some reference photos (which bring into question some of the Tamiya colour call outs) and think I have some ideas. Time will tell

[Col.]

A measure of care will see you right Nigel. Even the largest canvas benefits from light brush strokes.

[wimbledon99]

So the AK Markers arrived and are brilliant for painting the smaller moulded parts! @Col. I also took your advice above re. the weathering and light brush strokes

 

Those ejection marks won't be seen when it's put together

 

 

[Wings unlevel]

Looks terrific Nigel, especially that engine cradle/support bracket thingy.

[wimbledon99]

Thank you

 

That's a more technical explanation of it than I had!!

[Col.]

Lovely work on the detail painting and weathering. Really nice.

[wimbledon99]

Thanks Col

 

The parts are joined (no glue yet) and this is how it's looking. I've some 'grime' to add to the UC but I'll leave that until later on in the build

 

Next stop is the cockpit and the Quinta decals. These will be a first for me so fingers crossed they come out OK! 

 

 

 

 

[stevej60]

Great start Nigel,excellent job on the engine looking forward to this beast progressing.

[wimbledon99]

Thanks Steve    The thought of building this was a bit daunting at first but I'm slowly becoming more comfortable with it (famous last words! )

[wimbledon99]

I started the cockpit today. These Quinta decals are great!!!!! 

 

 

 

 

[Col.]

Impressive work in the 'pit Nigel.

[wimbledon99]

Thanks Col. All credit goes to Quinta.

 

Not sure I'd use them on anything small, but they seem to pay off on the larger scale build.

[wimbledon99]

So after fitting the cockpit to the lower half, and then putting the lid on, I couldn't resist going off-piste and building the fin

 

 

[Col.]

This is suddenly looking like an F-16 

[Thom216]

Looking really nice!

[wimbledon99]

Thank you  

 

I can’t recall another kit I’ve built going together with such precision. The fit of the parts is exceptional!

[wimbledon99]

Quick update. The wings aren't so skinny and I've pieced together some of the payload. Currently awaiting a courier to bring me a new magnifying lamp as mine pack up yesterday after 20 years of service!!