Here is my P-47D-27
of the 512th Fighter Squadron, 406th Fighter Group flown by Col. Anthony V.
Grossetta in the ETO.
I wanted to reproduce one of those natural metal Jugs with colorful markings,
invasion stripes and sexy noseart and "Angie" was perfect for this
purpose.
I usually build models out of the box with only some scratchbuilt details added
but this time I've used an aftermarket kit (Eduard photoetch set). I love the
fine details of the p.e. parts (especially in the cockpit) but I failed to
consider the huge amount of extra work needed to cut, bend, dry-fit and glue
those tiny little parts!
I've also added some extra wiring in the cockpit, replaced the 0.50 machine
guns' barrels with syringes needles and represented the engine cowl flaps in the
open position (which Mr. Hasegawa doesn't include as an option...).
Click on
images below to see larger images
About the paintjob, I
decided to give a try to Alclad II paints: now I'm in love with that
stuff!
It's ready to spray out of the bottle, dries in no time and it's hard as
nails when dry.
I primed the model with a coat of gloss black followed by a base coat of
Alclad II Duraluminium.
Then I masked some panels and sprayed them with Humbrol Metalcote Matt and
Polished Aluminium (some with a drop of gun metal for a darker shade).
Then I've applied another light mist of Duraluminium to tone down the
differences.
I must say I'm very happy with this NMF finish.
Nose scallops, invasion stripes and tail bands have been all masked and
painted, then after two coats of floor wax I was ready for decals.
Hasegawa decals are thin enough and reacted well to setting solutions (MicroSet
and Sol), although the stars & bars white is not really white,
"whitish" I'd say, but after the sealing coats and some light
weathering it's pretty hard to notice and in the end the decals look
almost as painted-on.
I touched up the pin-up with a fine brush to add shades and some volume to
the hairstyle as the decal looks pretty "flat".
Now "Angie" is really a sexy gal! ;-)
Panels have been
profiled with a light wash of black oils. Weathering is not heavy, because, despite the intense use, these machines were
well serviced by ground crews.
Stains and oil streaks are concentrated in the lower part of the fuselage and
MGs soot is evident only around the spent cases' chutes (only a hint of dirt is
visible on the two outer MGs, the ones with the muzzle closest to the leading
edge).
The fuselage was sprayed with Humbrol Satin Cote (anti-glare panel masked and
lightly sprayed with Humbrol Matt Cote) while I finished the wings with another
coat of Future as wings were often polished to improve performances.
I hope you like it!
Cheers,
Lorenzo
Click on
images below to see larger images
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