Hi gang - I want to build an F-104 in the German Nato scheme for a friend in Germany, and need help choosing a kit. I chose 1/72 scale because they don’t have much room in their small apartment.
So far, I have purchased the Airfix kit, which has the appropriate markings, but I wondered what other kits might be out there, and maybe an A/M cockpit also.
Anyone have experience with this Airfix kit, or perhaps a better one?
Any help would be appreciated.
thanks,
stinger
The Revell/Monogram F-104C kit is arguably the best in 1/72 scale. Not sure about AM but a search at Squadron or Great Models might turn up something.
Sorry guys (and girls), I totally screwed up. The kit I have is by Italeri.
Thanks for the tip Rick. I tried looking up that kit on squadron, but couldn’t find it (I hate squadron’s search engine). I’ll see what GM has.
When I was over there last year, I saw an F-104 on display at the museum in Sennsheim. My friend said that they were manufactured over there. Anyone know what German A/C company would have built them?
You had me clutching my chest in fear when you mentioned Airfix’s F-104, That sucker was a nightmare!
You’re doing better with Italeri, but I’m told the best F-104 kits in 1/72 are Hasegawa ones and I think they did make one with German markings.
As for the German outfit that made the 104 over there, I’d heard it was Messershmidt (spelling?) or perhaps they’d become MBB by the 104 era.
You should try Revell’s TF-104G kit, in 1/144. Superb little kit! It will tax less their small place too! Not sure if it comes in single-seater yet, but the kit is designed so that other variants could be made.
Upnorth - I’ll check out the Hasa kit. Thanks.
I had a freak out myself this week regarding the whole Italeri thing. I had already ordered the F-104 when, this last week, I started an Italeri FW-189 UHU. What a total piece of caca! When the 104 came I realized that it was also an Italeri, and that’s when I freaked. It looks ok, though, just from open box observation, so I guess it’s one of those situatons where a manufacturer has inconsistent quality.
And you’re right, Messerschmitt was the maker in Deutschland,and I think it was before the creation of Messerschmitt-Bolkow-Blohm. Thanks again.
DJ - I thought about 1/144, but I really want to put some effort into this project and have the results a little more viewable, but thanks for the consideration. I think, though, that they would have the space for one model in1/72, and that scale would allow me to make it just that much better, if you understand what I mean.
Thanks for the responses, all of you. If anyone else has some thoughts or ideas on this, please jump in.
stinger
Yeah, I understand, Stinger. Whatever you do, show it to us! I’m sure it will be worth it!