This kit was built
OOB and represents a typical high-quality modern Hasegawa kit. I based the paint
and marking scheme off an old Japanese military photo that was supposed to
represent one of the relatively unmarked aircraft of the 248th Flight
Regiment. Cockpit detail, recessed panel lines, and the fit were all
good. Decals were a bit thick and required quite a bit of Solvaset to
adhere to the surface.
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Cockpit details and wheel wells
were painted with Model Master 'interior metallic blue'. The entire aircraft
was then airbrushed with Floquil 'Old Silver'. The yellow
bars along the leading edges of the wings were painted next and then masked.
A mixture of ordinary table salt and water mixed with a very small quantity of
hair spray was then applied randomly with a brush to selected areas of the
aircraft and allowed to dry thoroughly. Model Master 'IJA Green' was
airbrushed free-handed over the dorsal surface of the model. Tamyia flat
black was then used for the anti-glare panel. The aircraft was allowed to
dry for a least 48 hours and then the dried salt was scraped away from the
aircraft with a cotton cloth in the direction of air flow. Result....instant and
realistic paint chipping. The model then received a few thin coats of
Future and decals were applied. A thinned oil wash in addition to an
acrylic sludge wash were applied to the recessed panel lines. Pastels and
oil paints were used to touch-up some of the weathering. 4X monofilament
dark tippet (there's always some around if you're a fly fisherman) was used
for the wiring. A final coat of clear flat completed the model.
Overall, I'm satisfied with the
result as this was my first attempt at constructing a WWII Japanese aircraft in
typical 'green' colors with the use of the salt technique for paint
chipping. I've tried simulating paint chipping with brushes, masking tape,
blades, and toothpicks but all resulted in mediocre or poor results. The
salt technique is the way to go for paint chipping as long as you keep the
effect 'random'.
Eric
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