1:48 Monogram F8J Crusader
Here's a Crusader that I built several years ago, a Monogram F-8E that I converted to a J model, which I have ugraded over time. I added an aftermarket seat, and a flap/droop/underwing bay set by High Flight. I scribed lines on the leading edge droops to at least depict the appearance of the extended droops of the J version. The UHT's (unit horizontal tail) are larger on the J version, but I didn't correct that (yet!). I also extended the main and nose gear struts to correct the stance, and later used parts from a Hasegawa Crusader kit for the 'football' ECM antenna on the tail. I added scrap plastic rod and wire to busy up the gear wells, and scratch-built steps and a boarding ladder. I used SuperScale decals to depict the VF-211 CAG jet from USS Hancock circa 1972. The RBF flags are from Eduard, and the Sidewinders are from Hasegawa's weapons set (which I need to replace with a later variant!). Monogram's Crusader is a great value for the money, with the biggest innaccuracy being the cockpit is a few scale inches too wide, giving the canopy and windscreen a flattened appearance when compared to the actual jet. But with a little extra work, it can be buit into a fine model.
Nice job on "The Last Gunfighter", Drew.
Thanks, Craig - the Crusader is probably my favorite jet. I'm working on another Monogram F-8 right now (wich will be another MiG-killer), and have another Hasegawa F-8 I plan on using with the RVHP set to convert to an RF-8A.
Oldie but goldie. Very nice.
Very nice work! I love Monogram planes too. Great job on that one.
Gary
Thanks, Gary - I had a lot of fun upgrading that kit.
You made an old, nice, but not really good kit look wonderful. Great work!
Thanks, Merrill - you're right about the kit, but it's still a great value for the money. The Hasegawa F-8 kit has issues, too (ask me how I know!), but it's far and away the best Crusader in this scale.
Hi Drew, this crusader looks simple amazing! Beautiful work!
Thanks, Jorge!
Great build of a classic!
Thanks, Rob!
Superved , great job , look sharp
Nice work with the F8. I have the Monogram kit and plan to build it soon. I noticed you raised the wing. What did it entail to scratch build underneath? Thanks.
Hi, Steve - thanks for the comments. I didn't have to scratchbuild the under wing detail - I had a resin underwing piece that came with the High Flight detail set. But it wouldn't be too hard to do yourself. It's basically just a curved bulkhead with some braces, cables, and a large silver pipe on the right side.