TF-51 Mustangs in 1/72
Going small π This is the first time I’ve built a 1/72nd scale fighter(s). Tiny! The Little Witch was converted from the Tamiya kit, and Miss Velma is the AIrfix kit. I love them both, they both build up in to fine models. The AIrfix is a a full 1mm smaller than the Tamiya kit in a couple places. That doesn’t seem like a lot but it sure makes a difference when making custom parts. Fortunately the canopy openings are both right at 5mm. The conversion parts were made using wood and heavily primed and sanded for the master molds. I made the canopy master with Magic Sculpt and wood. The bubble for the master canopy was made to the “tall” canopy specs.. From there I made several resin casts and reprofiled some of them to the lower profile. I can make 3 at a time in the Vac machine which saves a lot of time and material. Thanks for having a look! Back to the Panther!
Jim
10 additional images. Click to enlarge.
Tom Bebout said on February 28, 2021
Nicely done Jim, and tiny in 1/72 is why I don’t do them, these old eyes are too worn out for that scale. She looks really good, I like it. Now how in the world do you know I was going to ask about the Panther?
Jim Harley said on March 1, 2021
Thanks Tom! My eyes are in about the same boat. Won’t be doing too many of these π The Panther is down to finishing the canopy and clear coating. Real work always gets in the way.
Spiros Pendedekas said on February 28, 2021
Wow, Jim @jimh!
You did your scratchbuilt magics again, only now in 1/72 ( be might be more dificult, than in 1/48?)
Well done, they both look gorgeous!
Jim Harley said on March 1, 2021
Thanks Spiros! Definitely ramps up the challenge factor, but uses half the silicon π
George Schembri said on February 28, 2021
Two amazing 72nd scale builds Jim, think of all that paint you saved going the 1/72nd route!
Always found the pseudo β Ferrari Stallionβ emblem to be a favourite.
Jim Harley said on March 1, 2021
Thanks George! If I stuck with 1/72nd kits I’d never have to buy paint again! I’m really impressed with the quality and detail in these modern kits. Really makes it easy to pull off π
Robert Royes said on March 1, 2021
Two amazing builds, great work!
Jim Harley said on March 1, 2021
Thanks Robert!
John vd Biggelaar said on March 1, 2021
Beautiful builds, Jim.
I’m impressed by scratch building, but in 1/72 scale it is unbelievable.
Jim Harley said on March 1, 2021
Thanks John! 1/2 the scale, twice the time. Totally worth it though.
George Williams said on March 1, 2021
Like most people, I started with 1/72 scale aircraft kits, Airfix in my case, and I can’t imagine going back to it now, so these two are incredible, definitely liked.
Greg Kittinger said on March 1, 2021
Unlike most (it seems), I only build 1/72, so can really appreciate these two find builds! Terrific schemes and custom work. Well done.
Jim Harley said on March 2, 2021
Thanks Greg! They are a challenge…I wish I was 20 years younger π