I finished my P40 Flying Tiger model. 1/48 scale.

There were some bumps along the way, but it is what it is; finished.

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P40 Aircraft Model Kits | Books on Building Aircraft Model Kits

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I recently purchased this book, In the Cockpit 2: Inside History-Making Aircraft of World War II, and want to pass along that this is a very good book for aircraft modelers, especially of course when it comes to the cockpits.

The publication is a real deal price wise, as it is a hardback, but the covers have a look and feel like an old leatherbound log book. The book is in color (fantastic color!) and only a few images are black and white, (a traditional documented WWII photo for instance). A bit of history is given with each aircraft photographed, and many of these planes are ONE OF A KIND. Aircraft you will likely never see in real life.

If aircraft cockpits are your thing when it comes to building models, you will be looking at this book over and over. Many are common model projects, a few have probably not been in model form ever. But the popular aircraft model choices are well represented here.

The aircraft in this Volume II are: M6A1 Serian, Arado AR234 B2, P39Q Airacobra, P63A Kingcobra, B17G, B29 Enola Gay, Stearman N2S5 Kaydet, SB2C5 Helldiver, XP55 Ascender, SBD6 Dauntless, FM1 / F4F4 Wildcat, Focke FA 330A1 Bachstelze, FW190D9, FW190 F8, IL2 Shturmovik, N1K2JA Shinden Kai, Kellett XO60, KUGisho MXY7 Ohka, J7W1 Shinden, PBM5A Marina, ME262 A1A, A6M5 Zeke, F1 156 Storch, Nakajima J1N1 Irving, Nakajima KI115A Tsurugi, North American O47A, YC64 Norseman IV, P51D Mustang, SNJ4 Texan, P61C Black Widow, Sikorsky XR5, Spitfire HF MKVII, Sikorsky OS2U Kingfisher, Sikorsky XR4C.

Some of the cockpits are from restorations, but some are very well worn, the way I prefer the subjects. But the author points out any objects not "official" or if a modern change has been made, and that accuracy is much appreciated.

I recommend this book for modelers and aircraft fans alike.

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Large Scale Aircraft Model Kits | Books on Building Aircraft Model Kits

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I am not sure this would directly help a modeler with their modelling, but if you build Science Fiction subjects, or if you are currently thinking about building the Fujimi "Spinner" police car kit, this may interest you.

The Blade Runner Sketchbook has been made public, and covers artwork while developing the movie's concepts.

While there are not many images for the Spinner, if you like the movie, like I say; it may appeal to you. Check it out.

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ScFi Model Kits | Books on Building Scifi Model Kits

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Photos and images for detailing out models, in this case, aircraft, can be found in some unusual places.

Ford Images has saved up quite a few photos, some even in color, of aviation they have been involved with. I especially like the aircraft factory pictures from WWII.

I recommend you check them out. The images are also available for purchase, but even if you browse through them, you can still be inspired to build your next aircraft project.

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B17 Bomber Model Kits | Books on Aircraft Models

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Well, even if it's not direct reference per sec, old war time movies usually have plenty of images of various military vehicles, aircraft, and ships. Sometimes they are models, but many times real hardware is used.

For instance, if you like the old movies, some can be viewed online for free on YouTube, such as John Wayne's Sands of Iwo Jima. Or if you like aircraft, how about Baa Baa Blacksheep, the Flying Misfits pilot movie? Though most of the Corsairs were restored aircraft, and the Zeros were sometimes doctored up planes made to look like Zeros, you can still view the entire film, with no commercials, for free.

So if you are in the mood, try it out, and enjoy some old war flicks (oh, excuse me, model reference) for free.

• Sands of Iwo Jima
• Hell in the Pacific
• To Hell and Back
• Torpedo Run
• Cross of Iron

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M1A1 Abrams Tank Model Kits | Books on Military Models

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I have always wanted to build an Abrams M1-A1 tank kit. Most of the kits I have seen seemed kind of basic, and I just never got around to getting one.

I really wanted a kit with an engine, since I like the mechanical / powerplant aspects of a machine. I found out later that there are a few resin engine conversions available. Most were from small companies, online, who didnt take credit cards. Or I just didn't get around to ordering them seperate, or ordering them from overseas.

Then one day I was in my local hobby shop, and there it was (cue the sounds of Angels singing. LOL ) Bang! There was the kit I always wanted! Granted, the engine parts and interior were resin, but I could deal with that. Without hesitation, I shoved it under my arm, and when I checked out, that baby was on it's way home. The years of waiting were over !

Now, I don't build armor kits all the time, so I am taking it slow, and we will see what will come of it. But it has been fun so far. I look forward to working on it each time I sit down on the bench. (Though I do work on several projects all at one time). I am posting an image now, but I will continue to post them as it goes along. :-)

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M1A1 Abrams Tank Model Kits | Books on Military Models

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I have to say I have a thing for P40 aircraft, and the Flying Tigers. I just like the design and look of the aircraft. They are basic, spartan in comforts, and remind me of a "put together" well worn old hot rod. With character.

I have built a 1/48 Hasegawa kit before. (Click here for that one). And about one year ago or so, I bought another. For some reason, I stopped working on it, after completing the cockpit. But yesterday I dug it out, and decided it deserved a second look. Not that there are any issues with the kit. It all fits like a glove so far, I don't really remember why I put it away.

But it's now back on the bench. We'll see what happens. :-)

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P40 Aircraft Model Kits | Books on Aircraft Models

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Not all modellers share their hobby. Meaning, most of their co workers or people they meet probably don't even know they are a builder. I recommend you mention it to everyone you meet, because you never know who might be in the same hobby, or who might just have a few models lying around ready to be build by a modeler...like you.

For instance, a family member on my new sister-in-law side mentioned to my brother, that he had a few models. My brother does not really build anymore (though he did as a kid), so of course, he suggested that I may want them. Indeed I did !

While I don't usually build sailing ship models, the recent Pirate movies from the last few years has sparked my interest in building one. So now, thanks to a gracios relative, I have THREE kits to choose from and build. What a find !

So be sure everyone is aware of your hobby. You never know when there might be a few models out there that are looking for a new home... with you ! :-)

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Sailing Ship Model Kits | Books on Building Ship Models

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The new issue is out of the Model Car Builder publication. These are put together by the famous modeler Roy Sorenson.

This is a Special anniversary issue. In this issue they build three of the hottest new kits; Revell's 1948 Ford Custom, Polar Lights Batmobile, and Revell's 1/12th Mustang GT500! In the Builder's Gallery they have Jerry Shoeger with a nice assortment of his cars, and a special look at Randy Vandriass' "Dry Lake Racing Team". The Miss Molly Merc project returns, and the ProMod chassis gets a rear suspension. They also take a look at Pebble Beach cars and check out a 1/6th scale Duesenberg.

These "magazine" style books are available as a download (PDF) or in print, shipped to you. Price wise, it runs around the same price as any other good model magazine, such as Scale Model Aircraft or Tamiya's Model Magazine. (only without all the ads!)

If by chance you missed the first five mags, and want to pick up some back issues, you can order those here.

I just ordered this new issue for myself, I look forward to it. :-)

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Hot Rod Model Kits | Large Scale Model Cars

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NASA Scale Models from the Past - Looking Back at the Early Days of Space

I came across this article online from Wired, showing some scale models from the Space Agency in it's early years. There are some interesting ideas if you like to build NASA Space models. Check them out and see what you think.

There are many NASA models that have been issued over the years, many Apollo and Space Shuttle kits. Lately, Dragon has produced around 10 or so that have been well recieved by modelers. Model companies have done a pretty good job covering our space exploration hardware.

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NASA, Apollo, & Space Model Kits | Space & Scifi Model Books

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Let's throw up some links to some rcent model shows and events. See an idea or two? You bet !

• 2011 Motor City NNL #7 Model Show
• 2011 Butch Ohare IPMS Show
• Motor City NNL 7 Model Show
• 2011 Motor City NNL #7

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Super Hero Model Kits | Aircraft Model Books

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When the Ironman 2 movie came out, there were a few screen extras, including SHEILD operative the Black Widow Natasha Romanoff (protrayed by the beautiful actress Scarlett Johansson).

Moebius has been quick to produce a great kit of the Black Widow character to go along with their Ironman series of models. I recommend you order one soon, it's hard to say how long these will last. It looks to be a hit !

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Super Hero Model Kits | Figure Model How To Books

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Time for some more model inspiration, from IPMS to NNls. Enjoy !

• John H Glenn IPMS Model Show 2011
• LIARS Challenge 2011 Model Show
• LIARS Challenge 2011 Model Show
• 2011 LIARS Model Car Show
• Dragon63 / LIARS & SCMA Model Car Clubs / BRSCRC
• 2011 LIARS Model Car Show Pictures

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Diorama Model Kits | Car Model Books

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HobbyDesign has developed two new resin detail transkits for the Mercedes SLR.

They offer two kinds of Resign Transkits to make a 1/24 Mercedes-Benz SLR 722GT (HD03-0004) replica, and a Hamann Mercedes-Benz SLR Volcano's (HD03-0131) .These two transkits include a resin detail set, Photoetch set, and Wheel set.

The resin parts include front bumper, side bumper, rear bumper, engine hood. The photoetch detail parts will help bring to life you car model and make it even more realistic than ever. The photoetch set includes some detail parts for things such as: car logo, dashboard, steering wheel, the car logo on the Axle, brake discs, and the wiper.

Check out these detail items and many more at their website, Hobby Design.

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Mercedes Car Model Kits | Car Model Books

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Throughout the year, new model kits come and go. Many of the model manufacturers produce Limited Edition kits, or kits that have a numbered production run.

These kits are not always easy to find. Indeed, many times they pass modelers by and we didn't even know they existed. They are made in so few quantities. Companies label them as Limited Editions, with additional parts that include resin pieces to photoetch and new decals. Revell-Monogram is probably the most famous through their SSP (Selected Subjects Program) kits. But others offer them too, such as Hasegawa and Round 2.

These kits can sometimes be boxed in original packaging and box art, making them a real trip down memory lane. Many of the kits have not been issued since the 1960's !

So check them out, and see what kind of model treasure you can find. They won't last long !

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Round 2 "1 Run of Fun" Series | Revell-Monogram SSP Models | Hasegawa Limited Edition Models

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The iHobby event has come and gone. As with every annual show, there are many new products to watch out for in the end of 2011 and well into 2012.

While I did not attend the event this year, there are many who did. With modelers like us, we tend to take pictures of our favorite subjects. If you are a car modeler, you may only take pictures of new car models, or if you are into Scifi, you may only take pictures of space ships. That's human nature. It takes a week or so for everyone to get all their new finds online, I hope I have captured the excitement of the show with these web links.

We have more model kits than ever before to build! Enjoy !

• Official Model Expo Online Videos
• Official Round 2 iHobby Coverage
• Cybermodeler - iHobby Expo 2011
• CultTVman - iHobby Expo 2011
• Megahobby - iHobby Expo 2011
• Starship Modeler - iHobby Expo 2011
• iHobby Expo 2011 Images
• Also, the previous Toy Show in Japan 2011, as an extra !

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Scifi Scale Model Books | Scale Model Events and Shows

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Today was a great day as I was able to attend the Tabletop Cruisers Model Nationals this weekend, at Pines Ford Mercury Lincoln.

This was their 3rd event at this car dealership. You might think it is a bit unusual, having an event in such a place, but it does work. There is great lighting to view the models, including natural sunlight from large windows. The area is very clean and spacious, better than many luxury hotels. All the staff at this family oriented dealership are very pleasant people and work together with the Club and guests. (they also had some Mustang Cobras / Shelbys and a Ford Raptor handy, perfect for reference photographs!).

Another thing you would see at this event is a car club, the Tabletop Cruisers, working close with another local model club, Flight 19, an IPMS group, one of the oldest in south Florida. These two clubs have done several joint ventures at shows, and it seems to be working. In these times when model shows are a large undertaking in money, time and resources, these two groups work together to make their individual events even better for modelers. I won't say it's perfect, there will always be different philosophies towards building models, but model builders, guests, and the clubs all benefit from the collaboration. Both clubs should be commended.

If you do shows in your area on your own, reach out to other clubs nearby. You might find common ground to make your model future shows even better.

There were some great models at the show, many with some stunning paint jobs. There were several rat rod type cars that just grab me. They are so creative. Overall there were many models I had never seen before (and I have been attending shows in south Florida since around the mid 1980s). It was also great to hook up with some model friends, some I have not seen in years. We all know that is one of the best things about these shows, sharing news and talking models.

I want to mention that there were many supporters of the show: Such as Revell, with raffle models and tools, and who helped with the Make-N-Take. To see 25 excited kids all building models, and having fun doing it, it was a great time for all. Moebius Models jumped in with some great kits for raffle and prizes. Round 2 donated several items for raffle, and provided the club with a John Force slot car set. I want to tell you the kids used that slot car race track ALL DAY LONG. It was such a hit, and it kept them busy away from the show models. Round 2 must make some tough toys, because the slot car track worked flawlessly all day long, with no issues. These kids put that set to the test ! I think some adults will geting some of those for their own kids. What a great toy! RCHobbies, one of our biggest hobby shops locally, and a great supporter of modelers over the many years, also donated many models for the raffle and prizes.

Modelcar Garage was vending and they had several tables full of all the great photoetch parts and more that their company produces. Of course, there were also some local vendors selling models, and there were quite a few deals to be made. I scooped up a Mat & Debbie Hayes TBird, a model I have wanted for a while. Through the raffles tickets, I won a Round 2 / AMT 1968 Shelby Mustang and a Revell hobby knife. All in all, a great day !

Click here to see some pictures from the show.

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Tabletop Cruisers Nationals South Florida | Scale Model Events and Shows

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Pegasus Hobby has released their "War of the Worlds" tripod kit.

This makes a great addition to their previous 1/8 kit of the Martian figure from the same movie, the 2005 remake with Tom Cruise.

This all new kit consists of one Martian tripod with deployed arm lasers, tentacles and collection cages for building alternate versions. It includes over 90 pieces, with a transparent hood and clear eye lenses for possible lighting opportunities. Even a detailed logo display base is in the box to allow you to display the kit in an action setting.

The kit is 1/144 scale ( a popular aircraft model scale). So it may be possible to add some extras on your own. (people figures?).

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War of the Worlds Martian Model Kits | Scifi Model Books and Publications

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Enjoy some pictures from the recent NNL Model Car Show and a few others. :-)

• 2011 NNL Nationals Model Show (Toledo)
• Toledo NNL 2011Model Show Event
• Rimrock Plastic Modelers 2011 Contest
• NNL Nationals 2011
• 5th Annual Mid-America Nationals

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Show Car Model Kits | Car Model Books and Publications

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