It
is sometimes refreshing to switch between 1/32nd scale and 1/72nd
scale - it keeps me on my toes so to speak.
Even so the amount of detail that can be added to the smaller scale kits
is still vast. In this case I
started with a basic kit which cost £3.00 from a trader at an airshow.
The ESCI A-7E kit is a great foundation for superdetailing and comes
complete with recessed panel lines.
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In
1/72nd scale the plastic is thinner so removing flying surfaces and
panels is normally easier. In this
case the flaps, slats and rudder were repositioned either down or moved.
Several panels were opened up and the Verlinden resin set provides two
bays for you along with a reasonable seat, the Eduard etched set was also used.
The rest were created from plastic card, strip and wire etc - it was
great fun. I have several more to
make and have some really bright and colourful decals for both A-7E and A-7B
aircraft.
Although
I wanted to make a scene on a carrier deck with the SLUF undergoing maintenance
this would have normally meant no weapons.
However my research provided several photos of aircraft undergoing work
on the flight-deck with either empty TER's, MER's or inert weapons loaded.
The MER was superdetailed with its charge cables unplugged and new bomb
clasps in place. The fins were
cut-off an AGM-62 and this was painted as in inert version.
The wings were also cut and folded after detailing the joint.
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All
in all the ESCI A-7 kits are great, although I believe that the more recent
Italeri kits are even better.
The decals are by Superscale which went on without any problems at all.
The paints were good old Humbrol enamels and the weathering is my secret
formula (Permit me a wicked chuckle hee..hee..he).
Oh yes, I almost forgot, the tractor and men are from Fujimi's great
carrier diorama set.
The chains are by PP aeroparts and are more difficult to get hold of than
Mr Bin Laden!
The other carrier equipment was scratchbuilt, unfortunately Verlinden
only provided 48th scale utility carts so I had to build them myself.
The deck is just plastic card with holes measured and drilled with etched
brass tie-downs.
Keith
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