Major Don Schmenk’s F-100
This is the venerable Monogram 1/48th North American F-100. The kit was given to me by retired Air Force Major Don Schmenk. The plane has the markings of the Hun that Schmenk flew in Vietnam. I had the kit for many years before I finally got around to building it. Mr. Schmenk had included spare drop tanks and instructions for converting the kit's tanks to the appropriate sized tanks used in combat in Vietnam. I added the bombs and did a bit of detailing in the main gear bays that is for all purposes unseen now. The paint used was Model Master and Humbrol enamels, weathered with an over spray of Floquil Dust. I hope you enjoy!
7 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Craig Abrahamson said on November 29, 2012
Always loved the "Hun" (my favorite Thunderbird a/c)...and the way you set this one up for pics really "sells it".
Gary Brantley said on November 29, 2012
Thanks Craig! I like taking the pics out at the airport. It is only about 4 minutes from my house and it's hard to beat the natural light, and the "natural" setting too.
Gary
Dan DeSilva said on November 29, 2012
I long for the chance to shoot my kits like this! Beautiful presentation- nice build!
Gary Brantley said on December 1, 2012
Thanks Dan. The airport is a great place for these model pics. Sometimes the wind out there is a bit much for the models though. I've had one or two try to actually go "airborne" on me!
Tom Cleaver said on November 30, 2012
Great work again - I know what you have to go through to get here with that kit.
Gary Brantley said on December 1, 2012
Thank you Tom. Yes, that kit does have its challenges. I think that's why I waited a long time before building it.
Tom Bebout said on December 14, 2012
That's a really good looking Hun. Love the way you shoot it at an airport, really makes the presentation pop.
Gary Brantley said on December 14, 2012
Thank you Tom! I do think they look a lot better out at the airport. Next to flying through the air, it's their most natural environment I guess. Lol, I have been tempted to fly a few through the air though. Good sense, and patience, finally prevailed! 🙂
Gary
bob mack said on February 22, 2013
awesome work
Gary Brantley said on February 22, 2013
Thanks Bob! I felt honored to build this in tribute to Don Schmenk. You're too kind sir!:)
Gary