48th Scale Lockheed Martin T-33 T-Bird/Shooting Star
Just completed this Academy kit OOB for a Gatormodelers display of Florida aircraft
that will be in the main library for the month of November here in Gainesville Florida.
One of the most well-known jet fighters and trainers in the history of the
US Air Force, the T-33A and its variants enjoyed a long service history
in the United States. The T-33A Shooting Star (or T-Bird) was produced
by Lockheed. Originally designated the TF-80C Shooting Star, a design
stemming from the famed Lockheed “Skunk Works” and the work of
Kelly Johnson, the T-33A proved itself as a durable and rugged aircraft
that truly stood the test of time. The T-33A made its first flight on 22 March
1948, with U.S. production taking place from 1948 to 1959. Despite its
age, the T-33A remains in service worldwide. Several T-33s were
assigned to US Air National Guard units, including Florida, to be
used as proficiency trainers and practice “bogey” aircraft.
Though the Academy kit is not flawless, it was a nice kit nonetheless.
2 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Alan Rush said on November 1, 2013
Very clean and nice looking aircraft build, Jack. The pods give a nice burst of colour. I am glad that it will be on display in the library for others to see and enjoy.
Craig Abrahamson said on November 1, 2013
Very nice build, Jack…..I like it.
Mark Fidler said on November 1, 2013
That’s nice Jack looking good.
Bryan W. Bernart said on November 1, 2013
Really nice, clean build, Jack. Good stuff!
Joe Caputo said on November 1, 2013
Absolutely one of your best builds yet ! Simply beautiful, Jack !
Frank Cronin said on November 1, 2013
Jack,
An absolutely beautiful job. What a terrific looking T-33
Jaime Carreon said on November 1, 2013
Great looking model, Jack! Another one of those near and dear airplanes for me – worked on Canadair T-Birds at Holloman AFB a while back.
George Williams said on November 1, 2013
It’s a little beauty, Jack, those sidepods are especially neat. The library must have a pretty decent sized display space.
Jack Mugan said on November 1, 2013
They give us two sizable showcases annually. Our club has started an ongoing collection of Florida aircraft that we can use for these occasions. We use the second case to promote the club.
Mike Maynard said on November 1, 2013
Wicked good, the panel lines are highlighted just right.
AL HOFFMAN said on November 1, 2013
Really good Jack. This just shows a person doesn’t need to spend anything beyond the kit to have a very attractive model.
Tom Cleaver said on November 1, 2013
How in the devil did you turn that unbuildably wrong kit into such a nice model?
I know! I know! Ask me!
Talent.
🙂
Jack Mugan said on November 1, 2013
Well thanks Tom. I enjoyed building it so much that I ordered another kit so I can do a nmf scheme.
Michael Wayne Knowles said on November 1, 2013
Typically marvelous Jack.
Roberto Silva Cuevas said on November 1, 2013
Great work on a True CLASSIC!
bob mack said on November 2, 2013
beautiful
John Healy said on November 3, 2013
Nice job Jack! I just a picked a couple up to use with the new Caracals ANG T-33 sheet. I’m going to do a Mass. and Pa. bird. You just inspired me to step it up! What paint did you use for the ADC gray?
Jack Mugan said on November 3, 2013
I used ModelMaster Enamel Aircraft Grey FS16473
paint number 1731. I used the same color on the F-102 and F-106.