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Jack Mugan
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48th Scale Lockheed Martin T-33 T-Bird/Shooting Star

November 1, 2013 · in Aviation · · 18 · 1.8K

Just completed this 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.

Reader reactions:
5  Awesome

2 additional images. Click to enlarge.


18 responses

  1. 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.

  2. Very nice build, Jack...I like it.

  3. That's nice Jack looking good.

  4. Really nice, clean build, Jack. Good stuff!

  5. Absolutely one of your best builds yet ! Simply beautiful, Jack !

  6. Jack,
    An absolutely beautiful job. What a terrific looking T-33

  7. 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.

  8. It's a little beauty, Jack, those sidepods are especially neat. The library must have a pretty decent sized display space.

    • 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.

  9. Wicked good, the panel lines are highlighted just right.

  10. Really good Jack. This just shows a person doesn't need to spend anything beyond the kit to have a very attractive model.

  11. How in the devil did you turn that unbuildably wrong kit into such a nice model?

    I know! I know! Ask me!

    Talent.

    🙂

  12. Typically marvelous Jack.

  13. Great work on a True CLASSIC!

  14. 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?

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