Building straight out of the box – can I still do it? Can YOU still do it?
Here’s a topical question – one that occupies plenty of discussion at model shows and club nights, not to mention a trip to the pub for a chin-wag. Before starting SMN I used to think that the answer was probably ‘No’. But then, as I started to get hold of many different types of kits that I wouldn’t normally build – Airfix 1:72nd scale aircraft come to mind, I began to waiver. As ever the real answer is it probably depends…
What I do know is that I am getting back to really enjoying my modelling again – much more than at nearly any time in the past. So what’s this down to? Well, I am taking on projects that have been fun, easy to build and aren’t full of brass and resin. The Xtrakit Supermarine Swift FR.Mk.5 in 1:72 scale comes to mind. You can see it on the cover of this week’s mag and the full story in Finished Now. Apart from adding a replacement pitot head and some straps to the seat as it didn’t have any, that one’s from the box – looks alright doesn’t it?
And now I’m half way through the new Airfix Messerschmitt Bf109E in 1:48th scale and wow! It’s stunning, possibly the best they’ve produced to date in terms of finesse and quality and all for around £14.00. This one is so far 100% out of the box and the only thing nagging at me at the moment is the need to add brake lines to the undercarriage legs – or not… I may allow myself that luxury, but apart from that what you see is what you get.
Here’s a tip… once in a while give yourself a break! Try something different – out of the box or just another area of modelling – I bet you have fun doing it…
Builds completing all around us…!
You may have noticed that three projects completed this week and more to come next – take a look at the great build by Ian Graham from Canada and his sublime Alley Cat GAF Jindivik in 1:48th scale – how pretty is that? The last part will go live this coming week – one to watch out for, for sure.
Then there’s the terrific White Ensign Models HMS Abercrombie – the first again to be completed to our knowledge – hope you like it? What a fantastic job Les V has done with it – and this is someone who isn’t naturally a maritime scale modeller – fantastic achievement. The whole massive 40-pages of A4, 66 image and 4,762 word review is in Finished Now.
Much more to look forward to next week!
See you soon,
Geoff, Editor SMN