I like the Oz and Bruce am a late returner to military modeling--there is a vast difference this time around and the difference is the Internet and the laptop. 
The last time I had built a plastic model--there was no Internet--no means to access anything other than mail order catalogs out of the backs of a very very few modeling magazines----and reference material--what little you had access to you guarded as if it was the one ring to control them all from Mordor. Reference books were horribly expensive--and there were few...copy machines were a rarity inhabiting places of business only--

This time around at the modeling bench--is so, so different---I have a used IBM thinkpad T-42 that i use only for modeling reference...it's a seen better days...laptop i picked up for a song--but it works excellently to search for and save vehicle references, articles and to have open displaying actually archive photographs while i am modeling. The amount and quality of reference material available today on the Net even displays photographic reference of one off German experimental vehicles that never reached production. 

I appreciate the access to information and photography...and I appreciate the individuals who processed and uploaded this material to the Internet.

we're all working

Well I feel like I’ve had a productive weekend on my modeling. First and foremost, I’m just getting back into this after a 20+ year sabbatical, I had to replace everything. Tools, paints, glues, get some kits, all before I could even touch a model. That was finally accomplished last weekend, where I had enough basics to start on my first project an Academy M3 Grant tank. This will be my 1st go and I’m keeping it simple to scrape off the rust- no diorama or extensive rework, just a straight model build and basic painting, with a little weathering. (that’s the plan at least)

 I started looking over the parts and disconnecting some from the trees last weekend.  While I was working, I came to realize that I was uncomfortable working at the dining table and every time I got up, I had to put everything away. After looking around the house, I was amazed to find that I had a built in workbench in the garage, that was covered in junk, tools and house paint cans.  I spent a couple hours yesterday morning reorganizing and cleaning, and lo and behold- I have a modeling bench!

 I woke early this morning and fortified with a cup of coffee, embarked on my journey. I started by painting the exterior of the lower hull and filling and sanding some press marks.  While that dried I worked on the lower trunions.  I am amazed at the level of detail included in the new models.  I also had my first experience of a small part leaping from my forceps and vanishing in thin air before my eyes, never to be seen again….  There are many extra (?) parts included in the set, complete extra drive sprockets, for example, but not this one..hummmm.

The level of detail is amazing to me.  Bolt heads highlighted on the hull armor, fine scribing of lines and welds. They really have come a long way since my youth.  I base coated the trunions and will wait till later this week to paint the rubber on the bogie wheel rims. Baby steps..

All in all a most satisfactory 1^st day!

Fine Scale Modeler Review

 

The October 2012 issue of FSM is on the stands. I found a few great articles for those working on realistic armor dioramas in this issue. Here’s a rundown of this month’s articles:

 

How to Make Mud

Detail a Wespe

Distressing Acrylic Paints

Armor Modeling and Preservation Society 2012 International Convention Highlights

Tips for Improving Propliners

 

…and all of the standard topics.

 

I found the article on detailing the SdKfz 124 Wespe particularly useful. The author discussed several options for interior detailing along with different materials and techniques. The finished product looks great and the step-by-step instructions are helpful.

 

The simple technique for making mud was easy to follow with no expensive ingredients or tools to buy; brushes, plaster of Paris, acrylic gel and some dirt/aggregate!

FSM Insider :: Tips Database :: Model Kit Reviews :: Modeling Products Directory :: Forum :: Subscribe   FineScale Modeler Newsletter October 10, 2012 November 2012 issue on sale now! The November issue of FineScale Modeler is on newsstands now. It features 5 Workbench Reviews, as well as essential feature stories: 30 years of FSM Airbrushing & Finishing: Add good camo to the StuH42 Show Gallery: 2012 IPMS/USA Nationals Fine fixes for a big Phantom Build your own carrier deck And much more! Watch Editor Matthew Usher's video preview and see the completetable of contents. Sponsored by Dragon Models DragonUSAonline.com offers FREE Domestic Shipping on all orders over $99. At the same time, automatically EARN up to 8% in Dragon Dollars rebates on every purchase. Leave a comment on Dragon USA's Facebook page or visit our website atwww.DragonUSAonline.com 8 new reviews - plus more than 40 bonus photos FSM's December issue goes on sale the first week in November, but subscribers can read December's 8 model kit reviews online and check out more than 40 review-model photos not published in the magazine! Don't forget to leave your comments.   Evaluations include: Zoukei-Mura 1/32 scale P-51D Mustang Kitty Hawk 1/48 scale Lockheed F-94C Starfire Platz 1/72 scale X-47B U.S. Navy UCAS Trumpeter 1/35 scale BRDM-2 (Early) Meng Models 1/35 scale Merkava Mk.IIID Zvezda 1/144 scale Boeing 747-8 Meng Models 1/72 scale Mansyu Ki-98 Roden 1/144 scale Douglas C-124A Globemaster II   Subscribe and enjoy November's model kit reviews today! Sponsored by Meng Model 1/72 Scale F-102A (Case X) from Meng   Turned from its Japanese hypothetical aircrafts styles, Meng Model newly tooled an F-102A (Case X) Supersonic Interceptor! The kit offers strictly verified painting options, best assembly and precise fit, detailed and lifelike weapons bay, built-in and retractable missile pylons and precise exhaust nozzle. The cockpit is detailed and its canopy can be built either open or closed. The model lines, landing gears and airbrakes are accurate. For more information visit: www.meng-model.com Free online review! A review of the AZ Model 1/48 scale Vultee Vengeance Not a subscriber? Still want to sample FineScale.com's model kit reviews? Check out Al Jones' review of the AZ Model 1/48 scale Vultee Vengeance.   Subscribe and receive instant access to FineScale.com's archive of more than 1,200 reviews!   Have you built this kit? Is it on your wish list? Register and you can leave your comments.     Modeling Products Directory Subscribers: Take advantage of FineScale.com's Modeling Products Directory, a database featuring more than 13,000 product listings and an easy-to-use interactive search engine!   Every day we receive new product samples. We try, but we just don't have the space to report everything. However, our ever-growing directory informs you of every product that passes through our offices. The newest products include 75 aircraft, 31 armor, 12 new autos, and much more!   Subscribers, simply register at FineScale.com by entering the customer number from your subscription label. Then enjoy unlimited access to the database for the life of your subscription. Online Extra! 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Jasper Cole-Kink, West Stockbridge, Mass., submitted this helpful modeling tip:   Gel medium can be used to model realistic water, but it can be expensive. I use Sobo, a craft and fabric glue made by Delta. It dries to a glossy finish and it behaves like rubber. Drying time is fast, and it can be easily painted. You can texture it to make waves before it completely dries; if you pour candle wax first, you can depict ordnance impacts. Always wear eye protection to guard against splashes.   Subscribers: Visit our online Tips Database, featuring more than 200 helpful modeling tips. Not a subscriber? Register and receive access to the newest tips.   Share your expertise with FSM and get paid! FSM wants to know your useful tips and techniques. If we publish your tip, you'll be paid $25 or more.   Submit your best tips today! Solutions to your modeling problems Got a modeling problem? Submit your questions to FSM. 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We meet the first and third Wednesday of the month 1900hrs at the Starbucks in Roswell on North Main near NMMI.