B-17

Hi, I was hoping to model a Ju-87G-1 from a well known series of photos. The problem is that I can't find high resolution photos to make out the fuselage codes other than a "G". I was hoping someone out there might be able to help shed enough light on this aircraft to help me build a reasonably accurate replica. I tried registering on the Bundesarchiv website to download them, but the process was a bit too complicated for me to successfully complete. Here is the series of photos that I believe are all the same aircraft.

The RB productions photo-etch erla canopy comes with a template to reshape the fuselage. I am working on a 109K with the RB erla canopy, but have not yet had a chance to compare the template with the canopy from the Hasegawa G-14 kit.

Damian, That's exactly what I'm looking for. It looks like the up-lock hooks (#7 in the illustration) are indeed faced in opposite directions because they are connected to a single release cable. Back to the bench. Thanks again! Jeff

Hi, Does anyone have pictures or drawings of the landing gear wheel wells on the Bf-109K? I'm working on a 1/32 Bf-109K and using the RB productions photo etch wheel wells. The instruction photos aren't very detailed. I'm specifically wondering if the outboard gear door up-lock hooks on the sides of the wheel well face the same direction. I'd love to get my hands on the Japo book, which probably has the answers, but can't justify the price tag. Thanks in advance for any help! -Jeff

I was at the USAF Museum a few years ago. One of his paintings was on display called, 'Red River Thunder'. Here are a couple pictures I took. The painting in the flesh was sublime. Sad news. Sorry for your loss.

The box art appears to be by Piotr Forkasiewicz. He seems to be doing artwork for all the recent HK reboxings and some stuff for Eduard. His website is worth a browse while having a coffee/beer. https://peterfor.com/ I'm tempted to buy this reboxing, but man... I was really hoping for a 345th BG boxing. I am really disappointed by the lack of 345th markings on offer for the glass nose HK B-25. I guess the wait continues for that, the B-17F rebox, and B-17 nose section kit.

This is an example of the SOW design I was trying to describe. He contours a metal rod to match the shape of the entire strut. This reinforces the entire strut including the axel. He then surrounds it with a section of stainless tubing in the shock strut area. I am wondering if the ones in the review are just stainless tubing in the shock strut area, while the rest of the gear is resin. Hope that clarifies

Is it just me, or is anyone else skeptical that the metal rods inside those stretch the entire length of the strut like the SOW ones do?

John, Congratulations on such a terrific build. . On an unrelated note, I tried to email you with a decal order and got an automated response saying that you were recovering from surgery. I hope all is well for you. Jeff

I have personally taken apart a 21st Century pre-finished model. It is the 21st Century Toys mold, but doesn't include the bombs, or pilot figure. Additionally, the decal sheet has werk numbers that are in an.... interesting font selection https://www.modellboard.net/index.php?topic=64186.0 I agree, though, that the 262's were the creme of the crop when it came to 21st Century 1/18 aircraft.

Iain, That is a terrific idea. I really hope that you still plan on marketing these. I would gladly pay to compensate your efforts and improve the wings on my two kits. Watching eagerly...

I think you got them right. I had to double check walkaround photos when I assembled mine. The rudders appear identical / interchangeable, but they are not symmetrical themselves. The trim tab actuating rods are both on the same side as the left wingtip. I also appreciate your comments on the silhouette portrait 2. I've got one on my wishlist, but they are really expensive!

Paul, I ordered figures from him a few months ago via email. It took about a week for him to respond when I made the initial email. He might be a little slow in responding to emails, but was a pleasure to deal with. The figures are also top quality. Jeff

Great work! I think a wall mount is the only I will be able to display mine as well. That XF-15 looks like a great color. What markings will you use for your build?

Beautiful build! Great choice of paints for the desert tan. I'm working on one right now and I gotta ask... How much nose weight did it actually need?