McDonnell Douglas F-4EJ Kai Phantom II (JASDF Special Marking Blue)
The Fine Molds F-4 Phantom II series is now my "go-to" choice for Spooks in the gentleman's scale.
I've added some shots to show the sprues etc.
I do wish there had been a folding wing option...
Note the upper fuselage section - gets rid of a nasty seam as on all other F-4 kits in this scale.
No metallic blue decals for the drop tanks - will have to match with paint. That should be fun...
Fine Molds have done a great job with the design of these kits so that they can produce just about any variant (except the British Spey-powered planes).
Outer wings and tailplanes features tabs that ensure precise alignment.
The tailplanes even interlock with each other.
Separate pieces for the lip around the exhausts - very thin and more to scale than other kits.
The main fuselage is reinforced with internal bulkheads.
Options for open or closed canopy.
Not sure about this stuff - injection moulded seat harnesses, etc. We'll see.
The first decal sheet - stencils anyone?
The blue metallic ink is beautiful - but the printing process to make it results in a thick decal. Hopefully this does not create any problems.
Getting started on the cockpit. Both flat and 3D instrument panels are provided - for use with decals or painting.
I chose the decals.
The inside of the intake ramps - these seams will show so they must be filled. Not sure why Fine Molds made these as two piece assemblies.
Nicely done intake tunnels. When assembled, it's difficult to see any seams.
Fuselage together and starting the paint job. Underside is FS36375 and the top is FS36320 and black.
The metallic area around the exhaust is composed of separate pieces from the fuselage. The fit was perfect. Note the thin lip around the burner cans.
Stickering has begun! As expected, the metallic blue areas needed a LOT of decal solvent, but eventually they snuggled down nicely.
Stencil heaven.
I think she's finished. I'm finished anyway - the decals put up a fight.
I had to mix the blue on the front of the drop tanks to match the decal. I used Gunze H88 Metallic Blue and H35 Cobalt Blue. Maybe 50/50? I didn't keep track.
The JASDF always have the best anniversary schemes. Check out my other 301 Squadron Phantom here:
McDonnell Douglas F-4EJ Kai (Revell) | Album by Navy Bird (1:72)
McDonnell Douglas F-4EJ Kai (Revell) | Album by Navy Bird (1:72)
Commentaires
24 7 September 2023, 12:12
Bill GilmanGetting started on my next project! In my opinion, the Fine Molds F-4 Phantom II series has eclipsed the venerable Hasegawa kits. Both are still great kits, but Fine Molds have produced a real winner. I love this JASDF retirement scheme but I was a bit worried about all those decals. The metallic blue areas are a bit thick (probably due to the printing process) and required a lot of decal solvent to conform properly to the model surface. Eventually they did, but it was a struggle at times. I will have to somehow match the metallic blue colour when painting the drop tanks as that obviously cannot be a decal. Hopefully I can get something close. Cheers, Bill
7 September 2023, 12:37
Album info
I love these JASDF anniversary and retirement schemes. This one is especially lovely.
