I’ve started the P-61 by removing the detail and parts necessary to add the Eduard photoetch stuff. The pilot’s right sidewall is entirely PE (with added solder), and looks SO much more realistic than the molded detail. I wish all the sidewalls were PE, but “ya gotta work with what ya got.” This is as much as I’ll install at this point. After painting, washing, and drybrushing, I can add the levers and black panels and boxes. I never add the levers until the drybrushing is done. They are way too easy to lose.
A lot of the detail will be more visible once there’s some paint on it. I’d better order some more paint for this one. The black plastic will need a few coats for coverage, and I REALLY dislike the looks of “preshading.” Yuck.
I’ll post more pics once it’s been painted. Thanks for letting me share the build with you !
I’m using both theinterior and exterior PE sets on this build. I meant to post a link to my build page, where I have scans of the frets and instructions. Both sets are very nicely done.
That’s it, I’m going to have to spend more $$ on PE sets from now on. I just love the added detail. Can’t wait to see more. I’m salivating over this one.[:P]
TJ - I really like the Eduard PE. You get a lot for your money, in most cases. I can’t (or dislike) building a kit without it anymore. It gives me what I want, and I’m incapable of making these parts myself.
I just finished painting the interior green. I’ll post some pics later.
Tankmaster - in all the photos I’ve seen of WW II aircraft, I’ve never seen one that had darker areas of color on either side of every panel line. It makes it look like the center of each panel bulges out from the sirface. While it’s true that an aircraft in service rarely has a uniform color, the darker areas are mot patterned around all the panel lines. When I see this technique used, I don’t see a realistic miniature - I see a preshaded model. In some cases, the contrast is so strong that it becomes a charactature. It’s a “style” or “interpretation” that I don’t see in wartime photos, but it can be found in profile artwork. Why interpret someone else’s interpretation? You can’t beat photos of the real thing.
RadMax - I’m using the gun turret, and I’m ordering a sheet from Aeromaster for the markings. You see so many of these kits painted black. Mine will be OD over NG.
Bill,
That is some terrific work on the P-61 and is certainly up to your normal high standards.
I wholeheartedly agree with you on the unrealistic look to preshaded panel lines. You see that occasionally on certain panel lines, but rarely, if ever on the entire aircraft.
I am anxiously awaiting more pictures of the widow.
