Hi all, I’m new to FSM. I’d been building 1/72 scale over 40 years ago on and off. Never really became a ‘pro-modeler’ but reading all the on-line tutorials recently, and having a great deal of time, and the kit reviews had given me a renewed interest in building once more. I went a little nuts, and bought some nice WWII kits on e-bay, at amazing low prices so I now have a “stash”. I’m not particularly interested in the ‘modern’ jet era, but am trying to concentrate on those classic US WWII aircraft. The first obstacle I found, was that all the painstaking, tedious, time consuming effort to create cockpit interiors, is almost wasted, as they can’t be seen very much on the finished model. But I sure have picked up some valuable tips. Of course, if I make a mistake, I’m the only one who will know. I don’t have an air brush, and use the “rattle cans” (never knew they were called that), but so far, I’m making great progress. BTW, I’m 76, and a retired USAF pilot. My first aircraft that I flew was the venerable J3Cub. Never had a model of it, so I just found and built one. Not too bad. Ok for starters. So, here’s my question: Has anyone ever built a 1/72 F-80 in bright shiny polished skin? I have seen many of them on many tarmacs in the late 50’s and 60’s. If so, how do you get that finish? Thanks
Welcome to the Forums flyboy!! Glad to have you aboard! Glad to have another “Old Timer” around to help keep these young wippersnappers in line. I’ve been building for 66 of my 72 years. I build whatever strikes my fancy at the time.
I’ve never built a plane with a NMF (Natural Metal Finish). If you go to the Aircraft Forum and ask that question I’m sure that someone will give you the answer.
Jim [cptn]
Welcome to the Forum.
Welcome to the GB. There are a number of ways to get an NMF finish. I have used Alclad and rather like it, but some use metal foil and there are other paints.
There is an NMF GB starting on the 2nd June, it might be worth you joining that, you will pick up plenty of ideas.