Background
This
is my Hasegawa F-15C in 72nd, built for Waco’s 43rd
Fighter Squadron Group Build. The markings depict the squadron when based at
Elmendorf, AFB, Alaska. This was the last base the unit was at before being
disbanded, and was recently resurrected at Tyndall AFB, Florida, and now flying
the F/A-22 Raptor.
The
Kit
This
kit is the best one in 72nd scale to make a C or late model A version
of the F-15. The nozzles always give me trouble in terms of lining the petals up
as I go around. I usually have to do a bit of filling. I
wanted to tackle the nozzles first as they are one of the toughest parts. The
right one ended up a bit egg-shaped.
One
of the "arms' was broken off the speed brake even before removing it from
the sprue. I raided another kit for a replacement.
The
radome is molded as part of the forward fuselage, so care must be taken to
eliminate the seams on the top and bottom.
Based
on the timeframe of the markings, I added AIM-9 Sidewinders and AIM-7 Sparrows
for weapons.
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Decals
I
used Repliscale decals for the markings. The lighter grey sections basically
disappeared when applied on the lighter grey camo. There was a serial number
that went on the base of the tail, but you couldn't see it! So I took it off.
I also had a minor disaster putting the left
stabilator on... the pin broke off, so I wanted to add a new metal one since I
was shipping this, and didn't think a butt-joint would be strong enough. I
drilled a tiny hole, but the heat (I think) caused the top of the stabilator to
cave in. So now I had a small hole. I filled it with putty, sanded and touched
up with paint. It looks OK I guess. I inserted a paper clip portion for the new
pin.
Shipping
to Florida
Here’s
a shot of the model in its shipping box. Even with the care taken, one of
the stabilizers broke off, but Waco fortunately was able to fix it. Thanks
Waco.
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It was
an honor to participate in this group build, and have the model displayed at the
43rd Fighter Squadron. I have wanted to build an Alaskan F-15C for a
while, and this fit the bill perfectly. I was sent some terrific 43rd
FS and F/A-22 memorabilia by Waco for participating in the build.
Ken
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images below to see larger images
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