Airfix Alpha Jet 1/72
They’ve been buzzing around the area for the last few days and I’ve been taking some pictures, so I decided to pull out the model and do a quick shoot.
I built this ages ago–probably ’93. It was completely hand painted. I didn’t keep the instructions so squadron info. is lacking.
3 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Robert Royes said on September 30, 2020
A nice blast from the past.
Phil Steele said on October 1, 2020
Thanks Rob !!
Spiros Pendedekas said on October 1, 2020
That’s a lovely model, Phil @namregoob!
Got the Heller Patrouille de France 1/72 version that I have to build soon for a French friend.
Till now, the only work on the kit is my little son’s diggin’ in and moaning: “dad, I want to bulid it (he’s 2.5 yo…..)”. So your sharing is a great inspiration!
Your model should belong to JBG 49, Fürstenfeldbruck Air Base.
Thanks my friend for sharing this past memory with us!
Phil Steele said on October 1, 2020
You are welcome Spiros and thanks for the information.
John vd Biggelaar said on October 1, 2020
For such a small aircraft the hand painting is very nice, Phil.
During my youth I hand painted my models as well, but from what I remember, they did not look that nice as yours.
Phil Steele said on October 1, 2020
I was happy with the results at the time. Later on I got a decent air brush and masking tape (3M) and developed those skills. I redid a lot of my older builds, but not this one.
Bernard Bedeur said on October 3, 2020
Very nice. I have the Belgian solo display model in the works from Heller.
I am interested in How one re-paints models. I still am developing spray techniques with acrylics and some did not come out all that great. I still do better enamel paint and brush work but it is so toxic.
That said I am working on the lesser desirable models to get the hang of it prior to building the big expensive models .
Any tip on that is appreciated.
Thanks you for showing.
Phil Steele said on October 3, 2020
Stripping and repainting a model aircraft (or any other type) can be difficult. A model that has been painted with acrylic can be cleaned with 90% rubbing alcohol. Lighter fluid can be used to clean off acrylic and enamel paint. Anything else will attack the plastic. In either case it is a great deal of work.(in my experience)
The better plan is to obtain another kit and start fresh. Painting is a developed skill and it takes practice and time to get good results. Good masking materials and methods are important, and some good products are available. Setting up a painting booth with an exhaust system and good lighting is a good idea as well.
Any books that you may find on the subject are worth getting. I had one called The Model-Building Handbook that was informative.
I hope this will help you. Glad you like the model.