I just started on this kit a few days ago, and already I am quite impressed with it. This is my first 1/32 scale kit, figured I would go all out the first time around. Thanks to Ruddratt for sharing a link on building this kit over at J-aircraft.com, MUCH appreciated! I’ll post WIP pics as I go, please feel free to comment and ask questions. Here we go!
Armed with my references, I started on the cockpit. I thought about purchasing the Eduard PE sets for this one, but decided to save the $$$ and try to spruce it up myself. Here’s where I’m at so far:
Added some wiring and other bits to the cockpit floor, and added some lightening holes where appropriate.
More lightening holes, and some wiring added to the radio gear.
The fire control box on the left rear corner of the cockpit side panel needed to be relocated for a Nakajima built aircraft. This detail had to be removed, and it was quite a chore as it is located right on top of the fuse stringer detail and other bits. A couple of hours with a knife, rotary tool, files, and sandpaper did the trick. Wish I had taken a “before” pic…
Looks like after the cockpit, engine, and LG are built there is not a lot to this kit. Most of the construction manual covers these three areas. After they’re built, it should really move along! [tup]
Looks like a great start there Frank! I’m sure you will do her justice. From the reviews I have read it is suppose to be a great kit even though it is a bit pricey. I have been tempted to buy one a couple of times but then I have looked at my huge stash and decided to do some more building and less buying. I have the Hasegawa 1/32 A6M5c in my stash that I picked up for $35.00 bucks a while back. I was impressed with the detail if this kit but after seeing the reviews of the Tamiya kit I want one. I think I want the early A6M2 though so I can build it in overall grey with the black cowl. What markings do you plan on using and do you have any pics?
Happy to help, my friend! Looks like you’re well on your way to another stunner. Your attention to the fine details, as usual, is very inspiring. [tup]
Thanks fellas! I’m glad you like. This is one awesome kit, worth every penny! But, I gotta admit it didn’t cost me anything. A friend of mine knew how badly I wanted one when it came out so he gave me one. What a pal! [^]
Ha! I don’t think so. Your 'pit looks absolutely gorgeous. And if it turns out anything like your Corsair or T-bolt, then it will be a show-stopper for sure. You’re a tough act to follow my friend! [bow]
Crazy detailing Frank. Really looks the part though. Keep the photos a comin.
Isnt it crazy the way we build stuff? Were like several woman living under the same roof…after a while our Periods all happen at the same time…Im currently Building an Aichio Val, Mike is on the 1/48th Zero…Geez i bet theres loads of us building Jap planes at the mo.
Mike- Glad I could be an inspiration! I am very curious to hear more about your 1/48 Zero build. If I didn’t already have a few Hasegawa 5’s in the stash, I would have bought the Tamiya offering when it came out. [tup]
Guy- LOL! That is funny that so many of us are building Japanese birds at the same time. Kinda like an informal GB of sorts. [:D]
John- Thanks much! Part of the reason I picked this one is it SHOULD fit into my display case. Guess we’ll see when she’s done. [;)]
Frank, that’s the kind of attention to detail that I love so much about wingy thingies; I used to be primarily an Armor builder, but the “bits and bobs” challenge left alot to be desired IMHO…
I’ll be looking forward to progress pics, your stuff is amazing, and I can only hope my Bubbletop can match your bird…
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Heh, that’d be something to see… A European theatre plane up against a Pacific theatre plane… That means someone’s compass done went wonky…[swg]
No worries my friend, I’ll keep ya informed on this build… I too am curious to how my build will turn out…
By the way, this is one a/c that I do not have a lot of reference pix for… Would you have one on the seat by chance?
The “UpSet” gives you PE belts… Just curious b/c in their instructions they only show one coming over the seat/shoulder area… And the rest is centered around the lap belts…
I have an excellent reference book on the Zero, but my scanner is on the fritz so I can’t scan a photo of the seat for you unfortunately. However, these birds did have one shoulder belt, unusual but unique! Zeroes are difficult to find detailed photos of on the web.
Mines working purdy. Just send your stuff over here and ill be happy to photocopy it for you [:-^]
I was going to post some WIP pics of my ‘Val’ last night but somehow, like the complete A**e that i am, I deleted them from my camera. Damn you fat fingers. Ill have to settle with the finished product.
