As I had mentioned after completing my FJ-4B Fury kit, I was going to do two models. One would be my first ship model since I was a teen and that is ongoing in the USS San Francisco Project thread.
https://imodeler.com/groups/aircraft-modeler-building-a-ship/forum/topic/uss-san-francisco-project/
The other kit is going to be another aircraft in 1/48 scale. Specifically, ProModeler's 1/48 scale P-47N Thunderbolt.
Now let me start off by saying that I am aware that this is not a "Shake And Bake" kit. I've heard enough about it to know that it will require some extra attention. This doesn't scare me as I have tackled these sorts of kits before. The "Shake and Bake" phrase actually has a different meaning in this context, one which I will get into a few minutes. First, let me introduce the build.
This kit has been around since the early 1990s and the detail is pretty good as there was a noticeable uptick in model kit quality starting in the 90's. It's a complete kit with underwing stores and Scale Master "Vitachrome" decals (whatever that means). They look okay and other than their age, would probably be fine to use (with care).
However, I plan on using some aftermarket accessories for this build and something else related to the "Bake" part of "Shake And Bake". I have the Kits World decals for the yellow tail scheme. Ultracast wheels, although the kit wheels aren't too bad either. An Engine And Things R-2800 radial (which I hope will fit in the cowling). Master turned metal gun barrels, and two accessories designed for the Academy kit of the P-47N which I am going to try and make work, Eduard's 3D printed cockpit and painted PE detail set, and Eduard's canopy mask set.
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1. Yes I know the cockpit details and the masks are for the Academy P-47N kit. I am hoping I can make them work in this model.
Now for the last bit. You'll notice that the yellow tailed scheme is natural metal. I've always wanted to have a natural metal finished Thunderbolt, especially the P-47N with its larger squared wings. This is a beast of an aircraft and lends itself well to this type of scheme. Now when someone bakes something, they often use a common household product to facilitate that baking. What am I talking about? Aluminum foil of course.
Yes, I am going to foil this aircraft. Why? Because I want to try it out. I've been studying the technique for awhile in preparation for this, so hopefully it will all work out and I will have not only a natural metal Thunderbolt, but one that has real metal for a finish.
My focus will continue to be on the USS San Francisco build, but in those moments when I have to wait on that, or when I might be bored with it, the P-47 will become the focus. I will continually post progress here as I go.