[Min]

Here's the very first model I've successfully completed. It was built completely OOB (out of the box) with no additional accessories whatsoever. Airbrushed with Gunze and Tamiya acrylics, coated with Future before and after decals were put on, and then a final coat of Humbrol satin clear to finish. I built the model gear-up and in-flight, mainly because this was my first attempt and I wanted as little complication as possible (and to get my confidence up with a successful build). Also left off the weathering and washing aspects - will try these techniques on my next model, an old ESCI 1/48 Mig-27 Flogger.

Enjoy the pics, any criticism and feedback completely welcome.

[johnnyboy]

For a first build that is a very good finish you got there! You have talent and will look forward to seeing your next one, if you are going to use a wash please try Pro model was you wont be disappointed and will expect to see your future builds in the FSM
Promodellers.com - Promodeller Home

[mustangdriver]

Good job. Looks great man. Can't wait to see the next project.

[Min]

Thank you both for the kind commments. I do have on hand a bottle of the Promodeller wash mentioned, and look forward to trying it out soon. Heck, I may even try some of it on this model We'll see.

As for getting a good finish on this model, well that's what I was basically aiming for. I did say that this was my first successful build.... but it is actually the second model attempt. The first was a Hasegawa 1/72 F-117. Built that up okay, and couldn't wait to get into airbrushing it up. Being a first-ever attempt, I shot paint that was insufficiently thinned, at too high pressure, and too far away from the surface of the model. Ended up with a finish that resembled coarse grain sandpaper! A visit to a hobby expo the following week found me sitting at the airbrush demo table. Was shown how to thin my paint properly, with my compressor set to a low 9psi, and shooting thin and consistent coats from a closer distance. Couldn't thank those guys enough.

The F-117 is in the boneyard for now, will see if it can be rescued sometime in the future.

[mustangdriver]

Funny thing about that is that the iron ball paint used on the F-117 is indeed rough to the touch almsot like sand paper.

[mikeb1958]

Great job Min! Looks great to me!

[Epapazian]

I wish my first kit-make, years ago, looked half that good, Min. Hope to see more of your work posted. Great job!

[Tedongganas]

IT"S BEAUTILICIOUS !!! Great skill and talent for a first timer !! Great job Min !!

[Paladin18]

Wow! Very professionally done! I'm impressed. Have always liked the Crusader ever since I saw it on Dogfights on the History Channel.

[flyXwire]

Wow, that turned out really great for a first build! Congrats.