HK Models 1/32 B-17G – the Big one!
So far so good - but time consuming to pick out all those parts and paint individually. Hopefully some of the work is seen after I close up the fuselage!
16 responses
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.
I realize each of us, as modelers, have our own methods/process when approaching a build and the level at which we wish to complete that build.
Consider this...were it I, and I knew beforehand I was going to, say, hang this behemoth from the ceiling, I would concentrate all of my efforts of detailing into those areas that WOULD be noticeable to the casual viewer. I'm sure you've seen how some folks go way over the top in obtaining resin, adding wiring/plumbing, etc., etc. - only to close up the model and have it disappear from view. That's all well and good if that's your "process" as mentioned above. In your case, I get the impression from your wording, "...time consuming.." & "..hopefully, it'll be seen..." that you may be better off funneling your talents into those area(s) that WILL be seen. Just my two cents, Chris...I'm sure you'll end up with a great-lookin' model (you've got a good start).
Chris,
I agree with Craig that on a lot of models, nothing of the interior is ever seen. He says that more attention shoulder be paided to areas that CAN be noticeable. Again I have to agree with him and I certainly respect his views. Plus, in many instances I will do exactly what Craig is stating.
That being said...
I am building this kit right now. I have no time limit on it nor any requirement that all the goodies inside have to be done. In this case though I am doing exactly what you are doing. (which by the way, is beautifully done) this model so far is a stunning example of engineering. As such, each separate segment is a model in itself and a challenge to build. Regardless if it is seen or not, you know it's there and you have a feeling of accomplishment that you did it. You are showing us what you are doing as you progress so when the model is completed we will know it is in there. I eagerly look forward to seeing the completed model. Your skills are evident and work is outstanding.
Aside from this model and perhaps some others I usually do what Craig does.
I have to agree that each segment is a separate model and the best way of documenting each every segment of the model is to photograph and up load the pics to show the modeling community what went into the building of the model. The same could be said for the 1/1 aircraft. Not much can be seen from the outside until you gain access to the a/c.The only other option would be to cut open panels the way museums cut segments out or remove engine cowlings and open up other hatches to show more details which seems to be the norm for many modelers. Jan Baranec Me-262 model with the jet engine cowlings and the inspection plates is a good example of what can be done.
I have a lousy editor in me...the last sentence should read "the jet engine cowlings that were removed and the inspection plates left open is a good example of what can be done.
Hey Frank, I'll be over for some "quality control assessment" on that beast soon! Looking forward to seeing your progress.
I'd say make sure you have a strong support system for hanging this model built in, as I'm sure it is going to have some serious weight Chris.
There's merit to both points of view, I think. I tend to detail-up rather than detail-down, but there are limits. Even if the detail can't be seen in whole or in part, I think it's good to exercise your skills generally, because one day you WILL have a model where elements are both highly detailed and visible, and it's useful to have these skills 'to hand'.
Thanks for sharing.
There's an old saying that goes like this: "Character is doing the right thing when no one else is around". So it could be said of model builders no matter what the subject. I've only detailed a few models where the detail was sealed up like King Tut's tomb, unseen but there. It's a matter of taste, how much time you have with a build and personal pride. It's also a challenge to the builder to see if they have the "mad skills" to detail their model, especially if its scratchbuilt and the parts need to be fabricated. Yes, it would be perplexing to super detail a flight deck of a PBY and neglect the exterior like not rigging a radio antenna. But for me, the purpose of this hobby is to have FUN and enjoyment from one's creative effort, always striving to "upgrade" the next model project. Of course most folk have digital cameras and the "hidden gems" of the build can be well photographed, documented, and displayed when the model is viewed. Just my humble opinion, every coin has two sides.
I look forward to your finished product Chris (and you too Frank).
Well - there will be no hanging this from the ceiling! I hate the idea of dusting.
I am thinking of using the wall mount on a poster board. The poster board will have some information about the plane, the unit and the 8th AF... I'll then hang the poster board on the wall
As for the rest of the build - I don't usually go for the interior upgrades unless they will be seen - I have only done a few scratch items for this build. Its mostly the painting/masking that is taking so long. I also don't want to rush anything. Hopefully I will have this ready for paint by December 1... with any luck.
Do not waste a penny on the interior upgrades - you won't see a thing.
The wall-mounted poster board thing sounds really cool - although I've never done it (yet), I've seen others displayed that way and they really stand out as "art'...can't wait to see the end result. But like Jack said, be sure you take the weight into account when you consider how it'll be mounted to the board and put on the wall...but it still's gonna get dusty. 🙁
A different way of showing this model ...would be to build a coffee table or perhaps a table with a recessed compartment. Model railroaders will make small layout using Z scale trains and place them under glass and display them in compartment build under neath. This model is so big it would have to be a large table or perhaps the kit could be displayed like the dio at Telford with the fuselage being separated...
Your work looks very impressive so far, Chris, and I'm really looking forward to seeing the completed job. I'm not going to join in the argument re invisible details, we all go our own way, just so long as you enjoy your hobby, then it doesn't matter too much.
Well, I guess I am fated to be the bearer of bad tidings. You're not going to see any of that when you close up the fuselage. I speak from experience. The only thing you will see there are the pilot's seats. The only thing you will see in the nose is the area of the bombardier's pedestal. You will see nothing of the radio room or the rear fuselage.
Yes your right in saying that the model is fated and the majority of it will not be seen. But, I would argue the point that like a good writer who writes for his or her audience so should a good modeler. If your modeling for a museum and informing your the general public who knows little or nothing about the B-17 and the audience is their to be entertained and enlightened by a teaching moment then closing the model up and skipping the bomb bay section and excluding some other details for a model seems logical enough. On the other hand, if your on a modeling form and your modeling for your own satisfaction and a audience of hard-core modelers...modeling for modelers who are a appreciative of people whose gifts and talents can show off that talent and bring out the best of a project while being entertaining...why not. It depends on who is the audience is.
So, now I know that you know that we all know that all that great work will be in the finished model-works for me. Look forward to seeing your work progress on that beast.