Model: Spitfire Mk VIII
Scale: 1/48
Markings: USAAF, 307th Fighter Squadron, 31st Fighter
Group,
Finished: June 2008
The Otaki
model from the Spitfire Mk VIII with fine recessed panel lines is not a bad
model, but it does show it age. The interior detail is sparse and the canopy
transparency is marginal. Still the overall fit is acceptable and an average
modeler should have no problem assembling this kit. There is a point to be
aware of, the wing root fit is not good I had to sand and dry fit several times
to get a decent fit and the back to the canopy to fuselage fit is really bad.
Maybe it was just my kit, though.
This is my first attempt at
a natural metal finish. As this will be a NMF bird, the finish has to be very
good. Any scratch will not be disguised by the paint, quite the opposite, so I
took my time and I polish the whole fuselage surface before applying the metalizers.
I am using Model Master Metalizers and Enamels. Everything will be airbrushed with
my Badger 200, except the national markings (from an Aeromaster
insignia decal sheet) and the squadron letters, which have been scavenged from
the decal dungeon. I’ve decided to use some aftermarket seatbelts decals
too.
After the main paint job
was done, I coated the whole model in Future and I applied a wash and pastel
chalk for a weathered aspect. Afterwards I wish I would have leave
it as a clean airplane, as I didn’t really like the way this weathering
turn out. Oh well… learning experience.
Completed model images
Some progress shots:
