Greetings again. I have had only fleeting moments for modeling lately, I am amazed that I finished this project, started some time ago. But, like an expectant mother anticipating the arrival of her new bundle of joy, I have finally “given birth”, so to speak!
This is the 1:48 scale Hobbycraft Polikarpov I-16, built into a Type 10. As some of you already know, I make an aftermarket resin kit for this kit, and I would have been remiss if I did not use it in this build, so wouldn’cha know it, I did! The project also includes some kitbashed leftovers from my already-built Eduard kit, such as upper gear doors, prop, early spinner, and red star decals. Aside from that, I scratched the lower gear door halves, and made my own decals, specifically the black swoopy lines and the squadron insignia on the tail, which some of you may recognize as appearing in the Squadron I-16 “In Action” book. The canopy is a Squadron (Falcon) vacuum add-on. The exhaust pipes were drawn on the computer then cast in resin. I have plans to offer these pipes as an add-on to my existing kit, but first I need to discover a better way to set up the mold, as these parts are extremely fine, and I’m getting too many bubble flaws, even with pressure casting. I would ask other resin casting experts for advice, but so far my experience with interfacing with the pro companies has been rather negative. Seems there’s some sorta iron curtain surrounding the resin aftermarket industry, and these folks treat their knowledge not unlike secret plans to a thermonuclear device! So I’m on the “trial and error” cart for now. Er, the 55 gallon drum you see was also drawn in CAD, and cast in resin. The display base was my first attempt at a base, so feel free to bash on it!
I did take a few liberties. I believe the actual Type 10 did not have cockpit doors on both sides, and I think they also did not have the side hatch on the right side of the fuselage.
Mark, you have done a Terrific job on one of my most Favorite Airplane’s . I have always had a soft spot for those old Polikarpov’s. You truly have a Very Nice model there to Display. Thanks for Sharing. [tup]
Mark, that is awesome. I love the colour scheme and the subtle weathering. The base looks great too. All in all, a fantastic build. What are the bits that you produce for the kit? Ive built the Eduard kit and loved it.
Holy Schmoley! What a stunner. If you don’t mind, let’s see some of the finished, upgraded interior. Alos, where did you find that paint scheme? I absolutey love the colors. That’s one of the nicest I-16’s I’ve ever seen. Great stuff.
mark, great job. I want you to know that because of the resin build you did a while back I have picked up the stuff to cast my own resin stuff. Mostly to see if I can do it. You did a great job on that build.
