G’day everyone,
This is my latest model and the first one I’ve posted on the forum.
It’s the HobbyBoss Bf-109E4/7.
It’s about the 12th model i’ve completed since returning to the hobby 18 months ago (after the traditional High School/Uni break).
Having said that, it’s also the 12th model i’ve painted with an airbrush - a Paasche H using the no.1 Tip and Gunze Sangyo paints.
I bought the model based upon the box art and it’s price ($9!). The paint scheme is a combination of box art and my own editing. I doubt it’s historically accurate in any way.
This model represented a number of firsts for me, particularly:
- First Luftwaffe;
- First attempt at soft masks (which i couldn’t get to work unfortunately) which lead to my;
- First attempt at mottled patterns;
- First attempt at aerial; and
- First attempt at weathering using pastels (Tamiya).
I attempted a panel wash, but it didn’t turn out too well.
Weathering:
I was particularly impressed with the Tamiya pastels for smoke stains etc. I had tried highly thinned paint, but had trouble, so after reading other people’s use of the Tamiya pastels, went and bought a pack. I was a bit sceptical at first, but now can’t wait to use again.
Not sure if i’ve weathered in the right places, but, anyhow, i’m pretty happy with the result.
As for the kit, it went together surprisingly well, but it lacked instrument decal or any raised instrument details, so, it’s quite plain inside. There was small gap where the wings meet the fuselage which i filled with squadron green and sanded. The decals are nicely thin, but i ripped the cowl decal on the starboard side, hence you’re only seeing the port side.
I haven’t put the bomb on, or painted the nav lights. Also, my aerial broke off, so i’ll have to try that again (clearly my first attempt was not a good one…).
Any other comments and suggestions welcome.
Thanks for viewing.
cml