Academy North American P-51B 1/72nd Scale Mustang Review

The Mustang happens to be my favorite modeling subject. Clarence Anderson happens to be one of my favorite aces. Therefore it was a no-brainer that I would want to build this little gem from Academy with markings representing 'Bud' Anderson's second 'Old Crow'.

Working With Academy Hobby Decals

It is well known that the decals that are supplied with Academy model kits are very thick and inflexible. This tends to make them hard to apply, even with decal setting solution. While they are more difficult to use than those of other manufacturers, they can be used with good results.
 

Painting with Decals: Canopy Frames and More

A very accurate and simple way to create the frames on canopies is to use blank clear decal paper. Using clear paper allows you to show both the interior and exterior colors on the frame.

Painting Aircraft Spinners and Tires

So the tip of your spinner needs to be red? It can be difficult painting a conical object evenly, even if you try masking it. At 1/72 scale, it gets even harder. What about the tires on the landing gear? Do they always come out looking sloppy when you free-hand paint them?

Revell of Germany 1/72 Scale Arado Ar 196A-3 Review

This is the first kit that I've constructed from Revell of Germany. I's a nice kit, but the raised panel lines are a bit of a deal-breaker.

The Modeler's Secret: Pledge FloorCare Multi-Surface Finish (Formerly 'Future')

There are a lot of great modeling materials and tools that can be found at your local big-box retailer. One of the greatest of these is a product by the S.C. Johnson Company that was formerly called 'Future'. It is now sold as Pledge FloorCare Multi-Surface Finish. This is a clear acrylic liquid that has multiple uses in the modelling realm.

Academy Grumman F4F-4 1/72nd Scale Wildcat Review

I like Academy model kits. They have incised panel lines, a reasonable amount of detail and accuracy (this kit being an exception) and the price is right. What follows is a building review of their Grumman F4F-4 Wildcat kit in 1/72nd scale.