So, on to the Gustav that will eventually become Stigler's G-6. The box tells you all you need to know...

I'm trying a new policy of having two builds from different theatres on the go at any one time. This is a welcome relief from the 'serious' work on the Merit CV6 Enterprise which seems to have more sprues than the rest of my stash combined.

Three sprues - that's it.

There are some lovely touches on this kit (which cost about 20 bucks - or pounds; the way our currency is going there're about equal these days, anyway). The photo etch pedals are lovely.

Easy to build with a little patience, and everything fits terrifically. The cockpit is a gem.

It also includes what HAS to win a prize as the smallest photo etch part this side of the great abyss. I believe it's the emergency gear release...

It also has a lovely little instrument panel in etch that builds up over three layers.

Oh, and this my modeling room floor, where I have spent much of the morning on my hands and knees.

Absolutely agree on having multiple builds; I've been finding that it definitely keeps the interest and mojo going. I've started on the props and hoping they'll look as good as those that Alexandre showed on this post.
I think 'wheels up' is undervalued (by me, anyway) and I'm looking forward to trying to get a real 'dynamic' feel in the build with a little energy.
Thanks for your your kind words, Greg.

So this is Franz. Needed a little surgery and is scheduled for some more. Had to fashion a left arm from part milliput and part kit in order to get him signaling to the B-17.

Unfortunately his feet had to go, also. When I was doing this, I found myself apologising ('this is going to hurt me more than it will you' - which is true considering how much he cost...) - on hearing this my wife said, "are you talking to your little guys?" - "of course not" I said, " I only speak to them if they start a conversation".

Still searching for the B-17 crew. If anyone has the old monogram kit crew in their stash, I'd happily swap a kit from the collection in return!

Alexandre, this is brilliant; exactly what I've been needing. What a service, the figures look amazing.
Thank you!

Almost expect them to start moving; amazing poses that are so natural.

Hi Lee. It's a great story is it's own right but the book is full of fascinating sub plots, such as the Luftwaffe pilots' struggles against the Nazi party. I have my hands full at work at the moment so this build is parked on the bench and the any modeling is confined the working on the Enterprise.
Thanks for the kind words, and I really hope to see your own work on this inspiring piece of history!

Thank you David! I did source the 1/72 scale set so I have them. Just need to get a B-17F at a price within my budget. Did you get the crew figured out?

David, thanks for letting me know about this project. It looks to be very rewarding in both skills applied and the end results. I look forward to progress updates. Cheers.