I built this kit completely OOB.  I did not add any aftermarket parts because this was my first attempt at building a detailed model so I kept it basic.  I'll definitely go with an aftermarket cockpit next time.  I saw a photo of this aircraft & really liked to colorful paint scheme of the VF-31 Tomcatters so I had to build one.  The model was airbrushed in a standard 3-tone TPS.  I washed all the panel lines, clearcoated for decals, weathered & flat coated the entire model.  This was my first attempt at darkening panel lines & it wasn't that bad.  It's time consuming but the results are worth it.  Hasegawa did a great job engraving the lines & rivets.  I was inspired by other modelers to try highlighting panel lines & weathering.  All the different techniques posted here on ARC were very helpful.  I tried not to go overboard on the weathering so the images may not show much at all.

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Overall I truly enjoyed building this kit.  The Hasegawa F-14 Tomcat is very detailed & has many parts that add up to a beautiful model to display.   I have future plans to build more Tomcats in the lo viz variety & will post them as I finish.  Meanwhile, I hope you like my VF-31 Tomcatter.

Jeff