HpH Models F7F 3P Tigercat 1:32 – build review

Feature Article with Marek Hlusek

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A note from Geoff C…
I’m really excited to welcome Marek to SMN with his first contribution – a superb build of the equally impressive HpH Models F7F 3P Tigercat. Surely one of the best looking aircraft of its time – here’s how it all turned out for Marek and his build…

How impressive is that? Love it!

Over to you Marek for your story on this one…

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I had been thinking for quite a long time about which model I would like to build. This time it had to be an exceptional piece and it was a tough decision. The final choice fell on the F7F Tigercat in scale of 1:32 by Czech manufacturer HpH models.

Even though I had built a few models by HpH Models, I was again in awe of how comprehensive and detailed this model kit is. There are included detailed parts such as a clamping belt which is cut out by laser or “wet decals” by HGW or turned brass machine gun barrels. The assembly instructions are intelligible. Every step is accompanied by a bunch of helpful pictures.

On with the build

When building a model kit by HpH models there needs to be a different approach compared to a standard one that you might use for plastic models. The base structure parts are epoxy casted resin with some added material to make them stiff so they do not get deformed over time. This means I always start with cleaning and getting rid of all the excess and redundant material and also the parts need to be degreased. Alcohol or diluter C-6000As are a suitable means for removing grease.

When this is all done, it is time to perform a dry run test which is basically trying out how the fuselage, wing and engine base parts match together. I recommend using a tape by ANYZ.io or other good masking tape (like Tamiya tape). The tape adheres well and it does not leave any stains after removing.

Despite the fact that the model kit is rather complex, I found only a few problems with part unevenness which was easy to fix using a file. When I made sure all of those parts were well cleaned and they matched perfectly, I started with assembly of the engine nacelles along with the landing gear and the engine bulkhead.

Read on…