Hello everyone, Been lurking on the forums now for a few weeks browsing through various build threads and finally decided to subscribe and join up.
I’m a rather experienced wargamer, and in the past (20 years ago) I used to build model airplanes and ships as a past time. I’m finding that I prefer the building and painting these days to the gaming side of things so I’ve decided that its time to make the switch.
I currently have a few model kits that I’ve been tinkering with, nothing that I consider to be that amazing. Right now I have the Revell’s 1/535 Missouri and Revell’s 1/48 F6F Hellcat that I’m going to be tackling. I do prefer models with lots of detail, I find it satisfies my lust for painting. Sadly, I discovered all to late that the Hellcat model I purchased was lacking in just that.
I unfortunately don’t have a local hobby shop that sells models, but… I do Co-Own a comic and game shop, so supplies tend to be something I can get rather easily. I was wondering if anyone has any recommendations for good WW2 aircraft? I’ve found that there are a few places that sell aftermarket upgrades to some kits, and there is so much information I’m having a difficult time sorting it out as to what can be used with what kits. I’d really like to build up some USN aircraft from WW2 - I have a great interest in that subject. My grandfather was at Pearl Harbor during the attack, and I can remember all the stories he used to tell of the aircraft he worked on.
Anyways, I’m glad to be part of the community and look forward to getting a build thread started soon!
You’ve come to the right place. Lots of very knowledgeable guys and gals here that are ready to help out with any questions/problems that you may have.
My [2cnts]. I would suggest Squadron or Sprue Bros. mail order sites to get your kits and equipment. Their sites are easy to use and they have, in my opinion, good prices and the quickest delivery. They have very good selections of kits, aftermarket detail sets and decals. If there is a problem with anything you buy, they are quick to resolve it. Flyers come in the mail every month keeping you up to date on new items. You’ll probably get a lot more suggestions from the members.
I’ve been building for 70 of my 76 years ever since my uncles, one a submariner and the other in the Merchant Marines, both in WWII, got me started. Whatever strikes my fancy, and the wallet says OK, I build. Enjoyed every minute of it, well, there was that one time back in…[;)]. My advice is to sit back, relax, have a sip or two of your favorite brew wether it be [C], [B], [D], or my favorite [t$t] and build away.
Glad to have you aboard BiB82!! If there’s one thing I could suggest to you just starting out again is to go slow and stay basic for a while. Don’t worry about the details just yet as those will come. Instead try to concentrate on glue and fit as well as decaling and painting. I dove head first into detailing (because that’s what I like the most about scale modeling too) and skipped over stuff like sanding seams flat (like leading edges of wings and such) and paint/ weathering. I ended up with a couple of builds that were good on detail but sorely lacking in the mere basics. The idea is to jump in , start a thread like you’re talking about, post plenty of pics (whether you like the way your work looks or not…been there …done that) and ask LOTS of questions. Looking forward to seeing you around, Joe
Thanks for the warm welcome! I got antsy and decided to go and pick up a model at my local hobby lobby last week, Revell’s F6F hellcat. Wow… there is absolutely NO detail to this guy, no cockpit, just a pilot molded in a sitting position. Very disapointed. BUT i’m going to build it none the less, will be good practice for when I get my next one.
I’ve been eyeballing Airfix and Tamiya kits, but the wife wants me to finish what I have first - I can’t blame her. I’ll start a build thread later tonight when I get home.
…and that’s how it all starts. My wife kept finding models everywhere. Under the bed , in the spare bedroom closet, in my closet and a few in the shelves of my work bench. I’ll never forget her response…“There’s friggin’ models everywhere in this house!” . lol
there are many people here that can help you along the way. As far as a source for purchasing kits as mentioned before Squadron and Sprue brothers are good sources. Ebay can also be a good place. There is a website charliesplasticmodels.com that has a good variety of stuff for really great prices. If you do the facebook thing, there are numerous scale model auction/for sale groups there too that can have some pretty good deals.