This
is the Hasegawa "F-18D" with some Eduard Brass, Microscale
Decals, and Hasegawa Weapons. Much has been written about the unsurpassed
quality of these kits, so I will take just a bit to talk about the
assembly and weathering. I must first give my many thanks to other ARCers
for their advice, and especially to Kaan Gok for his outstanding article on
the "Tips n Tools" section. Kaan's weathering techniques for US
Navy jets was instrumental in my efforts here. I did go a little beyond
his article sort of trying things out on my own. Preshading, painting,
chalk wash, lighter shade touch ups, then a light coat of the base color
to bring it all together. A nice coat of future, decals, dull coat and
there we go!
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images below to see larger images
I used the
Eduard color photo etch and I can't say enough good things about it.
I also used some Quickboost ejection seats. I kind of like the
mix between resin and photoetch. I also used the Eduard color
placards which I quickly decided were unnecessary. Most all of
the labels on the aircraft were drawn on by me with a very fine black
pen. The boarding ladder is the biggest goof on this one. I
did not quite get that nice slant that the real plane has, but if I
ever produced the perfect kit, well then... I would just have to
quit all together!
Overall
I think that this kit is my most complete effort. That being said, it netted me a
big nothing at the local model contest this spring. But that is not why I do
this. I loved the chance to weather this guy and make him look dirty.
I am really
hoping to start building some Tomcats soon, because as it is now I have way too
many Hornets sitting around. Thanks again to Steve and all the ARCers out there.
Tyler
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