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Charles S
3 articles

1/48 F7F Tigercat, Spurious paint scheme

May 15, 2013 · in Aviation · · 16 · 5.9K

Here is a that I did a while back. It was a first attempt to replicate the "blurred prop" effect seen in photos of real aircraft. I think it turned out well.

The blurred props were done with clear plastic that was masked and sprayed with two layers of future mixed with a small amount of drafting ink. The yellow tips were sprayed with future mixed with yellow food coloring. The prop hubs were made with pieces of wood dowel turned on a dremel tool like a lathe. I also added spark plug wires from strands of electrical wire and a scratchbuilt gunsight.

The paint scheme is a fictional Vietnam era Marines scheme and decals came from various A-4, F-4, and Skyraider sheets. The pilot figure is a skyraider pilot.

The base is a basswood plaque that was stained and coated with varnish, and a clear acrylic rod.

I hope you enjoy!
Charles

Reader reactions:
8  Awesome

6 additional images. Click to enlarge.


16 responses

  1. You got me with the scheme, I was thinking wait a minute an F-7F in gull grey scheme. Then I read your summary. An excellent what if. Nicely done.

    Chuck

  2. Terrific build, and great idea, Charles! The Tigercat looks fantastic in this scheme (though to me the F7F looks great in ANY scheme...)

  3. Excellent job all around...I like that. The project turned out well...nicely done.

  4. That is an awesome tip Charles!...the effect works really well!.thanks for sharing and crongrats for your nice build.

    cheers

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    said on May 16, 2013

    Excellent! Love the way you've displayed yor 'cat Charles. The blurred props work for me!

  6. love the props love the (what if) scheme love the display excellent

  7. Charles, Great looking model-I think the F7F looks better in this "what if" scheme than the standard overall blue, also like the prop effects-nicely done.

  8. said on May 16, 2013

    Charles, that is just bitching'! That paint scheme just looks like it belongs on the F7F. Very nice.

  9. That's so cool! It should've been "real" history-it would have been a great idea. The model looks great. I love a plausible "what if". Thumbs up!
    Gary

  10. Very nicely done!

  11. That's excellent, Charles! That looks truly striking in the grey & white scheme and your prop blur effect is quite effective.

  12. Thanks everyone! Glad you liked it!

  13. Excellent "what if", very well done.

  14. said on May 18, 2013

    Great looking Tigercat, Charles! I think the Tigercat looks great in any color scheme! Hope to see more what ifs from you!

  15. that is a beautiful scheme

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