forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com
WW1 Aircraft Modeling => Under Construction => Topic started by: Chris Johnson on July 20, 2015, 04:12:28 AM
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I'm baaack again! This time I'm tackling the Wingnut Wings 'Late' Snipe kit. If you've been keeping up with Lance's build log you're already aware that we're having a bit of a mini GB on our Snipes. His will be the build log to follow if rivet counting, attention to detail, and overall accuracy is what floats your boat. Mine . . . not so much. I just build 'em for the fun of it and I try not to be a slave to absolute accuracy. When you don't know much about aircraft, and in particular WWI aircraft, it's pretty much the only course of action a guy can follow!
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/SopwithSnipeBoxCover_zpsno1v2isr.jpg)
Back in September 2014, I started a thread on the markings and colour scheme for this aircraft.
http://forum.ww1aircraftmodels.com/index.php?topic=4134.msg71028#msg71028
At the time, this was the only image I had for reference.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/Sopwith%20Snipe_zpsukvnlkvl.jpg)
Luckily for me, Bo was particularly helpful in supplying several more views that I wasn't aware of, as follow.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/Snipe3_zpsotei4umg.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/Snipe2_zpst7nahebr.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/post-45680-0-34047400-1312405024_zpsfxue8ev3.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/mpcandassopwith_snipe__leic_zps92xz55er.jpg)
So, armed with all of the above I'm going to make a stab at this project, even though it appears that the aircraft went through an evolution in markings prior to its unfortunate demise on 25Aug19 prior to the Toronto-New York air race. Aside from cleaning up all of the big parts in the kit,I really don't have much to report yet, but I do have the instrument panel finished.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9723_zps0sph2tin.jpg)
You might know, right off the bat I fouled up the decal for the tachometer. Somehow, and I WAS paying attention, the darned thing rotated a bit off-centre. I never realized the error until seeing it in the photo and by then it was too late as I'd already sealed it with Future. :-[ Oh well, like I said at the beginning, attention to detail isn't one of my strong suits.
I wish I had removed the Feed Tank glass and copper gauge system as Lance did, but it didn't occur to me at the time. All I did was stretch a bit of clear sprue, paint it with Tamiya clear yellow, and glue it to the existing moulding. It's hard to see but if you look closely below, you can just pick it out.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9728_zpssj9wq5b0.jpg)
I went ahead and used the kit supplied cane seat and that's ready for the installation of the seatbelts. All in all, it's a good seat but after seeing Lance's Barracuda replacement, I'm kicking myself for not buying one of those myself. It's in a league of its own.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9733_zpsz2nh1mgh.jpg)
On to the rest of the cockpit.
Thanks for dropping by!
Cheers,
Chris
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Very fine beginning.
Martin
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Nice start Chris! You've done a beautiful job on that instrument panel and really picked out the tiny details well. Wish I'd thought of the Clear Yellow thing on the sight gauge, I may try to add that before I close mine up. We're off to the races, good Buddy! :)
Cheers,
Lance
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Great to see you back at your bench again Chris, you have made an excellent start with a very convincing instrument panel, well done, and the seat is looking looking really good also.
Des.
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Nice start Chris! That panel is excellent, much better and cleaner than the one I did :-[ I am looking forward to this one as I still have a late Snipe to do in the stash!
RAGIII
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Brilliant start, Chris! So good to see you back where you belong.
Cheers,
Bud
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Great to see you back, Chris, and that's a super start you've made to your Snipe.
Best wishes
Nigel
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That'll be a great looking scheme, Chris, can't wait to see the finished product. What are you going to do for decals for that one?
Lindsay
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I think the "standard" seat provided is absolutely sufficient (at least it would be for me), as there will be the belts posed upon.
How are you going to do the indian head?
Stefan
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Terrific start, Chris! The woodgrain on the instrument panel is
really well done and the sightglass effect is superb. I am looking
forward to seeing your next progress reports, my friend. :D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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This is looking great, Chris! It's so cool to see two Snipes being built as a sort of mini-mini group build. I'll be following both with great interest! :)
George
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Chris,
Beautiful beginnings my old friend. Looking forward to following this thread.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Looking good, Chris!
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Thanks for all your comments fellows! The support shown on this forum is second to none and I sure appreciate it.
I've managed to get the cockpit assembled, even though it's summer here in Canada and time at the bench suffers in favour of spending time lounging on the deck. Here are some images of where the project stands now. The woodwork is a base coat of Tamiya Deck Tan over-coated with Burnt Sienna oil paint. Instead of using straight black where called for, I decided to try Tamiya NATO Black instead. The jury is still out on that substitution. All wire bracing and control lines are made from .008 (0.20mm) guitar string, super glued in place. The seatbelts are the PE ones from the kit. They were annealed and painted Tamiya Deck Tan with filters of Raw Umber oil paint. The tubing that's supposed to be painted copper was done with Vallejo's Copper but it just doesn't show up very well in my opinion. I doubt that I'll use it again and will look for something better. I'm open to suggestions!
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9842_zpsrkhqt3e4.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9829_zpsizfth28z.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9827_zpsrvuoqays.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9837_zps2jounpoo.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9836_zpst4aneelj.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9840_zpssqhayuir.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9835_zpswj5crnuh.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9831_zps5v5leqsn.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9844_zpsh9jwxtu9.jpg)
I see that I've forgotten to add some dirt and grime to the hand-grip on the stick. I'll take care of that now.
Thanks for stopping by for a look.
Cheers,
Chris
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Sweet looking interior, Chris! Looking forward to more.
Cheers,
Bud
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Chris,
Absolutely stunning interior! Your wood work, bracing wires, panel, and in particular the seatbelts are gorgeous! Everything is neatly and cleanly constructed and painted. Very well done!
RAGIII
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Really nicely done Chris. It's crisp, clean, and your subtle dirt and grime just perfectly executed.(your background in the Armour niche of the Hobby really shows the skill you have with "grunge"!) The seat belts, no easy task in PE really stand out as well. I'm going to have to bear down and get real careful to stay up with this sort of quality! Engine next?
Cheers,
Lance
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Chris,
Absolutely stunning interior! Your wood work, bracing wires, panel, and in particular the seatbelts are gorgeous! Everything is neatly and cleanly constructed and painted. Very well done!
RAGIII
I second this! Beautiful, Chris!
George
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Thanks guys for your generous comments. It gives me the impetus to keep striving to get better and approach the level of ability you fellows demonstrate with each and every model you build.
Engine next?
Cheers,
Lance
Hey, I'm just flying your wing here buddy. Where you go I go, so I guess it's the engine. ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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Superb interior, Chris.
Martin
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Your brilliant modeling skills are shining through Chris with your superb cockpit, your attention to detail is exceptional and your choice of colours is excellent.
Des.
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Chris,
Brilliant skill and craftsmanship my old friend. Like everyone else I very impressed with your work on her interior and how shown the wear and tear. Keep up the outstanding works?
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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Thanks again for dropping by and posting your comments fellows! I'm finding it to be an enjoyable project thus far. Maybe the best fitting WnW kit I've built yet.
Cheers,
Chris
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Thanks again for dropping by and posting your comments fellows! I'm finding it to be an enjoyable project thus far. Maybe the best fitting WnW kit I've built yet.
Cheers,
Chris
Chris,
I know it was certainly the best engineering of those I have built! You will find that the wing alignment is foolproof. The cabanes serve to align the upper wing perfectly and the positive locator for the interplane struts allow one to just snap them in place. Have fun!
RAGIII
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Wonderful interior!!!! Astonishing craftsmanship!!!! ;)
Cheerio
Lukas
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sweet snipe chris
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Outstanding work on the Snipe cockpit Chris! That is a real work of art and the paintwork is simply stunning. This is shaping up as a amazing model.
cheers
Dave Wilson
Gold Coast
Australia
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That is one crisp looking tub, Chris! Excellent!!
vB ;)
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Chris, you have made a superb job of the cockpit! The woodwork
is beautifully done, the rigging neat and clean, and the seatbelts
are a work of art in their own right. There is nothing to take away
from the amazing job you have done, my friend!
In answer to your question about the copper colour, I usually use
the Gunze Mr. metal copper with pretty good results. :D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Chris, that cockpit Is simply incredible!!
Pietro
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Thanks ever so much for all of your comments and support fellows. I think good luck was smiling down on me when I built the cockpit. I'm hoping that it'll be with me for the rest of the project too.
In answer to your question about the copper colour, I usually use
the Gunze Mr. metal copper with pretty good results. :D
Thanks for the tip Ernie. I don't know if I can get it locally but I'll look into it. Lance also suggested Mr. Color Copper and I happen to have a bottle of it. I didn't even think of it at the time. :P
Cheers,
Chris
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Moving right along in the slipstream of Lance, I tackled the Bentley engine next. I was surprised to find that Part E6 'Push Rods' had a short shot defect on one of the rods. The other broken one was self-inflicted by using a set of sprue cutters instead of a razor saw. I generally learn the hard way. Luckily, I found the broken part and repaired it. All I could do was glue the short-shotted rod together and hope for the best.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9853_zpspkdkwjbw.jpg)
I decided to use monofilament for the spark plug leads so I drilled out the locating holes on both sides of Part E8 'Intake Pipes' to rout the wires as illustrated in the instruction booklet. It was hard for me to see, so I enlarged and scanned it.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/Bentley%20Plug%20Routing_zpstxw9xjcf.jpg)
Then it was just a matter of inserting and gluing the monofilament in place.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9854_zpscf8fhxbs.jpg)
By the time I had all 18 pieces of monofilament in place, things were getting pretty hairy.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9856_zpslqgkxad0.jpg)
Then I loosely fitted E8 'Intake Pipes' and carefully routed the monofilament leads around and under the pipes to their correct spark plugs.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9857_zpshrubxodh.jpg)
With that accomplished, I glued the Intake Pipes in place and super-glued the monofilament leads to their respective plugs, trimming the tail ends off with cuticle nippers.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9866_zpsvxrbh7ao.jpg)
I base painted the engine with Tamiya XF-56 'Metallic Grey' and followed that up with a wash made up with 502 Abteilung Abt160 'Engine Grease' oil paint and thinners. Then I applied a filter of very thin Winsor & Newton Prussian Blue on the Intake Pipes and followed that up with another thin filter of 502 Abteilung ABT210 'Copper' oil paint. I also applied that to the push rods for some colour contrast.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9872_zpspqzajqk8.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9878_zpsnanv5rzu.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9875_zpszgkcgjuc.jpg)
It sure seems like a lot of effort for an engine that'll be mostly hidden behind the cowling. Oh well, at least I had the enjoyment of (hopefully) improving a bit on what WnW has given us.
Next in line are the MGs.
Thanks for dropping in for a look!
Cheers,
Chris
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Very nice work on the Bentley Chris, the colours look great and you did a superb job with the ignition leads, pity so much of it will be hidden once the cowl is fitted but this is the case with most of the WW1 rotary powered aircraft.
Des.
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Fantastic work on the Bentley rotary Chris! Just world class modelling!
cheers
Dave W
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Great looking Bentley, Chris! Now get that thing covered up! ;D
George
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Great work on the Bentley Chris! I'm almost embarrassed to put up photos of mine, hopefully tomorrow. Your use of washes and filters really brings out the highlights, just superb work. I think you must now be ahead of me progress wise on this project!
Cheers,
Lance
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Lovely work, Chris. You've almost got me convinced to give your armour building "assemble everything then paint" workflow a try.
A question if I may: you've used both filters and washes on the Bentley. Presumably there were some clear coats in between? A gloss before the wash and a matte or satin before the filter?
Looking forward to the next update (and great photo lo, by the way),
LT
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Thanks fellows for dropping by and posting your comments.
Great work on the Bentley Chris! I'm almost embarrassed to put up photos of mine, hopefully tomorrow. Your use of washes and filters really brings out the highlights, just superb work. I think you must now be ahead of me progress wise on this project!
Cheers,
Lance
Hey, I'm just trying to emulate guys like you Lance, when it comes to my aircraft models! I think we're running neck and neck right now but I anticipate you pulling ahead as I've got to put some time in with that AFV review kit that I'm building concurrently with this.
Lovely work, Chris. You've almost got me convinced to give your armour building "assemble everything then paint" workflow a try.
A question if I may: you've used both filters and washes on the Bentley. Presumably there were some clear coats in between? A gloss before the wash and a matte or satin before the filter?
Looking forward to the next update (and great photo lo, by the way),
LT
Nope. No clear coats between anything on this engine Lindsay. In my experience, as long as your filters and washes don't attack the underlying paint, you're good to go. The only time I've ever had a problem was when I applied a spirits based filter over enamel paint and while working the filter in with a brush, it lifted the paint. My base coats are all done with acrylics and my washes and filters are composed of spirit thinners and oils or enamels, so the filters don't attack the acrylics. This is why I'm a dyed in the wool acrylic enthusiast for my painting.
When I apply washes and filters on specific panels or over an entire model, then there are gloss and matte coats between them and the paint as a result of the decaling process. I use acrylic clear coats to again ensure that the filters and washes won't attack them. I'm no fan of acrylic filters and washes (except in figure painting) as I don't find they perform as well as oils and enamels. That's just me though. Your mileage may vary. ;D
Cheers,
Chris
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Chris, very fine and beautiful work.
Cheers
Martin
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Chris, Your added details and painting/weathering on the engine are simply superb!
RAGIII
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The MGs are completed for my Snipe now. Even though this was a presentation/tribute aircraft, it was taken on by the fledgling CAF so I think including the armament is within the realm of possibility. I used the MGs supplied in the kit and as with the engine, base coated them with Tamiya XF-56 'Metallic Grey' and followed that up with a wash made up with 502 Abteilung Abt160 'Engine Grease' oil paint. That was followed by another wash of Winsor & Newton 'Lamp Black'. I added dabs of CA to the charging handles and painted those with Burnt Umber oils. The pads on the back of the MGs were painted with Vallejo 'Leather Belt' followed by a wash of 'Lamp Black'. I even remembered to drill out the muzzles and paint the vent pipe and fitting on the oil and fuel tank. You fellows may make an aircraft modeller out of me yet! ;D
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9909_zpsgtijqta1.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9911_zpsljan0uqe.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9912_zpsevuxv4i6.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9914_zpsbtmeve8f.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN9916_zpspovg6gl7.jpg)
Thanks for taking the time to look in.
Cheers,
Chris
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Excellent job of the Vickers, Chris! Looking back a bit, I have to
say your engine is just superb. Thanks for the tip about attaching
the ignition leads first. Great idea and much easier than doing it
after the thing is all together. :D Terrific progress, my friend!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Great update Chris! The guns look absolutely real and the entire component is clean and "crisp", I really think you've mastered the art of cockpit modules with this one, the degree of realism is stunning to say the least. Going to be hard to keep up to your high standards now! :o
Cheers,
Lance
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Great update Chris! The guns look absolutely real and the entire component is clean and "crisp", I really think you've mastered the art of cockpit modules with this one, the degree of realism is stunning to say the least. Going to be hard to keep up to your high standards now! :o
Cheers,
Lance
I agree 100% with Lance reference your cockpit and the MGs. The only variance is that I am not currently working on one though the Snipe Late is moving up the pile!
RAGIII
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Exellent cockpit Chris.
Cheers
Martin
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Great update Chris! The guns look absolutely real and the entire component is clean and "crisp", I really think you've mastered the art of cockpit modules with this one, the degree of realism is stunning to say the least. Going to be hard to keep up to your high standards now! :o
Cheers,
Lance
I agree with everything that Lance has said, a superb build to date Chris.
Des.
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Chris,
Your Vickers are outstanding my old friend. No doubts in my mind this Snipe is your best to date. As always I'm looking forward to your next awesome update,keep up the excellent progress.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
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HI Chris:
Just catching up on your Snipe build here. Great work all around Chris, the instrument panel looks great, tach decal slant notwithstanding. I didn't see it. The paint work on the seat belts and seat are top notch to write the least. Guns and engine, what more can be said, looks the business alright. Looking forward to your next update. Where are you getting the decals. This is a neat bird!
Until that time
Mark
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Outstanding work on the cockpit, Chris! The guns look fantastic.
Cheers,
Bud
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Thanks fellows. I'm having a lot of fun with this project, mainly because the engineering is so good.
. . . Thanks for the tip about attaching the ignition leads first. Great idea and much easier than doing it
after the thing is all together. :D Terrific progress, my friend!
I'm no fan of CA glue Ernie so I try to limit the potential for disaster when using it. I'm pretty lazy in that I don't scrape off glue attachment points so gluing together whatever I can before applying paint ensures the best joint. Sometimes it's a pain to paint pre-assembled detail but if I work my way out from the inner most pieces, it's not too bad.
. . . Where are you getting the decals. This is a neat bird!
If all goes as planned, I'll make the 'Leicester/Canada' decals on my printer using laser decal paper as the decals are only black and white. As for the red over white striping, the plan going in is to mask and paint them. I'm reminded though that no plan survives first contact unscathed!
I'm open to, and seeking any suggestions from you more accomplished aircraft modellers on the best way to approach executing the stripes. Lance has already suggested painting the white portion followed by the application of a red decal stripe over that. Any input would be greatly appreciated!
Cheers,
Chris
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Engine and cockpit are both magnificent!!!! ;)
Lukas
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Chris,
I am sure whatever way you go with the stripes it will be fantastic! I have to say again just how gorgeous that cockpit and engine are!
RAGIII
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I was sidetracked for awhile with an AMPS review project, but since getting back to my Snipe, I've made some progress, but not without continually shooting myself in the foot along the way. Rather than employing post-shading this time around, I decided to airbrush a slightly darker shade of CDL between the ribs on the underside surfaces to see how that looked.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN0043-001_zpsgwscj0oj.jpg)
All in all, I rather like the effect, so I decided to continue on with it. Notice how I shot the wrong side of the aileron though. :-[ This was my first shot in the foot. Based on the following reference image, it appears to me that the under-surface wing tips are a different colour and I decided it was blue.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/SnipeWingTips_zpsno0welsz.jpg)
Note also the wide wrap-arounds framing the painted wingtips, which I also tried to reproduce.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1806_zps03pixcfg.jpg)
Based on this reference image, the tips on the horizontal stabilizer are painted what appears to be a darker colour than the fuselage band. I decided the tips were red, so I carried that over onto the wings also. The top surfaces are Doped Aluminum which is a mixture of Tamiya Flat Aluminum and Sky Gray.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/post-45680-0-34047400-1312405024_zpsuofkufst.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1803_zps8wgkcl4f.jpg)
There is also some piping evident around the rudder and fin so I decided it was red too. I used a Sharpie to lay the colour down and I'm happy with the result. There's no way I could've done it as well as this with a brush or masking tape.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1813_zpsgamya2hu.jpg)
With the wings well on the way, I finished off the interior of the fuselage with some bracing at the tail end. I eventually removed the tail skid as it was getting in the way and I was afraid I'd break it. I'll add it later.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1808_zps0ehztxoq.jpg)
After gluing the fuselage halves together I threw caution to the wind and installed the cowling/doghouse. Hmmm . . . anyone see something wrong here? Maybe a gaping empty area behind the pilot's seat perhaps? Shot in the foot x2.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1819_zpsgg1okude.jpg)
Yes indeed, I neglected to install the bulkhead behind the seat! :-[ There was no way to gently pry the cowling off so I resorted to repetitively scribing the seams until it finally came off. Note that the bulkhead is now firmly in place. I cleaned up the seams and made the best of a bad situation.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1820_zpsawigyb8s.jpg)
With the fuselage fully assembled, I used masking tape and my airbrush to add the red and white striping. Then I shot the rear with Doped Aluminum, and determining that the fuselage band was blue, shot that colour also. It wasn't until I had removed all of the masking that I discovered that I had one too many red and white stripes. I can't for the life of me explain how I did that aside from pure carelessness. Shot in the foot x3.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1825_zpsctmaatdg.jpg)
There was nothing for it but to mask off the offending stripes and re-shoot blue over them. Everything went swimmingly until I suddenly realized that I could see the outlines of the stripes I had painted over. :-[ Shot in the foot x4.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1834-Arrow_zpsna51bo6y.jpg)
This time I sanded down the offending lines, re-masked yet again, and re-shot the blue. I think this time I have it pretty well fixed.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1839_zpso3ypj5oq.jpg)
So, bit by bit, I'm fumbling along towards completion.
Thanks for dropping by!
Cheers,
Chris
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Chris,
Really looking OUTSTANDING! Lovely paint work and the masked and painted stripes are terrific! Also your wing tip painting is awesome!
RAGIII
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Very beautiful painting, Chris.
Cheers
Martin
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Awesome work, Chris! But, please, stop trying to cripple yourself!
Cheers,
Bud
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Hi Chris:
Great recovery on all of the self inflicted wounds! :o This is going to be a colorful bird and I am looking forward to seeing you progress. Will it be ready for CAPCON?
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Great work, Chris. Good to see you continue on and fix the errors instead of adding the model to a "shelf of doom". I did exactly the same thing last week with the ailerons on my DH.2. On the lower wing I painted the bottoms as the tops and vice versa, but I noticed it after I had already added Aviattic linen decals! Doh!
George
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Thanks for your comments and support fellows!
Awesome work, Chris! But, please, stop trying to cripple yourself!
Cheers,
Bud
I sure wish I could Bud but I seem to be moving from one careless mistake to another.
Great recovery on all of the self inflicted wounds! :o This is going to be a colorful bird and I am looking forward to seeing you progress. Will it be ready for CAPCON?
I was aiming for CapCon Mark but I don't know if I'll make the deadline. The way it's going, I'm not sure I want you guys to see it either! :-[
Cheers,
Chris
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Apart from stumbling along the way you have ended up with a really stunning looking airframe and wings, your painting skills are exceptional and the scheme you have chosen is superb, the blue on the fuselage is excellent. I also like what you did with the wings, the darker shade between the ribs worked very well.
Des.
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Chris,
Outstanding work my old friend. You know sometimes when life deals you lemons just whistle. "Always Look On The Brightside Of Life". I know it sounds too simple but take it from it surely does work.
Highest Regards,
Gregory Jouette
Shameless Monty Python Fan
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Chris,
Some modellers would have "binned it" or at least sent it to a holding area after some of those little stumbles, well done and I have to say your recoveries are 110% effective, and spectacular overall. Leaving that behind I think it's coming along beautifully; very colourful, unique, and beautifully finished, this is going to be a spectacular Model.
BTW, the paint work is fantastic; I don't think I've ever seen masking and results as "pristine" as those tiny red & white fuselage stripes........Very nice work!
Cheers,
Lance
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Thanks for your comments guys. I think the most important thing when you stumble, is to always try and get back up and carry on. I'll finish this project, warts and all, no matter how clumsy and careless I might get along the way. It's nothing to do with the kit. It's just me.
Cheers,
Chris
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Love your project, Chris, simply beautiful!
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I have a bit of progress to report in that aside from the rigging, I have the fuselage completed. I made the 'Leicester To Canada' decals on my black and white laser printer. This was a first for me and overall, I'm pleased with them. The black toner is fused into the decal paper so there's no potential issue of smearing such as there is with inkjet printers.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1844_zpselitmol7.jpg)
The only issue was that the toner seemed to chip off a bit when cutting the tight curved parts. Bearing in mind that the decals were only 7 mm long, this probably wouldn't be an issue in larger decals. I used a fine tipped black marker to touch up the offending areas as best as possible.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1871_zpserroewrp.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1870_zpsxjiqe88o.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1875_zpstvzixrv8.jpg)
The war bonnet decals were sourced from the recent 1/32 scale Academy Nieuport 17 'First World War Centenary' kit #12121. It was only when I saw these decals in a review of this kit that I realized I could actually build this 'tribute' Snipe, so I picked one up for that purpose.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1865_zpsvixr1ahf.jpg)
I've got the wings well on the way also. The aileron cable in the notched in area on the leading edge of the top wing is easy to miss in the rigging diagram, and that illustration doesn't show the turnbuckle on it. I used ModelKasten stretchy line for this feature. I glued two lengths into blind holes at either end of the notch and made a brass tubing turnbuckle for it. This was my first experience with the ModelKasten line and I'm really impressed with it.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1879_zpsw6wjo10e.jpg)
Thanks for dropping by!
Cheers,
Chris
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This is looking absolutely superb Chris, your painting of the fuselage and the decal application are faultless, this is really turning into a show piece.
Des.
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Chris,
Brilliant work on all of the markings. Your scheme is turning out Beautifully! Also terrific work on the cables!
RAGIII
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I forgot to mention Chris, your rigging lines look great, I have used the ModelKasten line a few times now and like you I am very impressed with the product.
Des.
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Simply gorgeous, Chris! I love those markings. You've done a remarkable job on them.
Cheers,
Bud
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Awesome, Chris! Your decals and rigging look great!
George
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Chris,
My PC10 standard pattern old Snipe looks pretty ordinary beside this beauty! It's looking better with every update. As Des has stated, this is turning into a show piece. Great job, she's one of a kind and you are really doing a fine job on her!
Cheers,
Lance
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Thanks guys for your kind words and support. Lance should get a big chunk of the credit for any success I'm having as I've been pestering him endlessly with questions.
My PC10 standard pattern old Snipe looks pretty ordinary beside this beauty!
I think not! I'm just trying to keep mine in the same ballpark as yours.
... I have used the ModelKasten line a few times now and like you I am very impressed with the product.
Yes indeed Des, this is great stuff but I wish the spool had a lot more on it for the price. I'll be rationing it out for things like aileron control lines where adding rigidity to the aircraft isn't an issue.
Cheers,
Chris
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Chris, my friend, you are doing an absolutely superb
job of the Snipe. Your repair jobs along the way are
an indication of your considerable talents...really well
done! The paint job is stunning and this is going to be
a jewel when complete!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Stunning work, Chris.
Cheers
Martin
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Thanks for your continuing support Ernie and Martin. I have the tail fully rigged now and once you get looking at the control horns and the other parts, it's pretty straight forward. As the eyelets on the control horns are so delicate, I elected to use ModelKasten stretchy line for the lengths that butt end in the elevator. I fished the rest of the monofilament control lines through the fuselage and anchored them on the cockpit module. As you can see below, I cut 1mm and 2mm lengths of brass tubing to secure the various lines.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/DSCN1884_zpslv85zjvo.jpg)
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/DSCN1888_zpsbdxcdmvt.jpg)
With that task completed, I dry fitted the bottom wing to the fuselage and it seemed to need too much pressure to obtain a proper fit. The culprit turned out to be this post that was interfering. No one else has mentioned this being an issue so it's obviously a failing on my part.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/DSCN1881_zpsfhz6zbzh.jpg)
Whatever the case, I snipped it off and the wing slipped into place perfectly. I also have the glass covered aileron service ports (?) painted with their clear covers in place. All of the eyelets are in place also.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/DSCN1883_zpskglqk8bx.jpg)
Next step is to install the interplane struts and the cabanes.
Thanks for looking in!
Cheers,
Chris
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Looking superb, Chris!
Keep those updates flowing ;)
Cheers,
VB
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Vety fine update, Chris.
Cheers
Martin
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Chris,
Superb job on the rigging, perfectly clean and crisp as always with your projects. I'm almost afraid to show mine when done, good luck with the struts and wing rigging, I have at least provided you with a scintillating example of how NOT to do that step! :-[ Looking mighty fine!
Cheers,
Lance
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You are building (and painting) a superb looking Snipe! Lovely.
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Absolute perfection in the tail rigging, Chris! The Snipe is looking
just brilliant, with an unusual and pleasing colour scheme. With
your dedication and eye for detail, I am looking forward to more
super updates, my friend. :D
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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Your Snipe is turning into a real gem Chris, the painting is so crisp and clean and the tail rigging is superb, this is going to be an extremely attractive model once completed.
Des.
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Your Snipe is turning into a real gem Chris, the painting is so crisp and clean and the tail rigging is superb, this is going to be an extremely attractive model once completed.
Des.
I can't add anything better than what Des said! My thoughts exactly!
RAGIII
PS: Chris, I remember having the same issue on the piece you pointed out. That being said I didn't mention it in my build as after I realized the wing didn't fit flush on the real aircraft I thought I had removed it unnecessarily. In retrospect I am sure it was in the way. Like you said I probably did something wrong during construction.
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Thanks fellows for your continued support! It means a lot to me. I'm happy that I have more progress to report. I'm a bit gun shy after having a serious issue with setting the cabanes in my D.VII project so I decided to try employing a jig this time around after seeing how well it works for Lance in his builds. It's simple to make and works like a charm. I'll be using one of these for all of my future projects.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1891_zps8ztsnuwg.jpg)
Lance also had good luck in pre-rigging his cabanes which is something else I've never done, and seeing how the wing stagger might make it a difficult task, I followed suit and did it myself using Maxima Chameleon 2 lb monofilament as usual.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1896_zps8hdu0nb8.jpg)
When I installed the top wing I ended up with one cabane line that sagged a bit but that was quickly rectified with a bit of heat from the tip of a soldering pencil.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1898_zpsduawexcz.jpg)
The interplane struts all went into place in both wings without any issues and even without any rigging to brace the structure, it's quite sturdy on its own. I have to say that the stagger on the wings made reaching some of the connecting points somewhat of a challenge for my sausage like fingers. In particular, the cross-bracing between the struts was hard to get at.
The line that runs from the rear strut in the inside bay passes through the wing and anchors to the rear strut of the landing gear.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1924_zpss3btfs5h.jpg)
It's shown to good advantage in one of Jamo's Snipe photos as seen below. I hope you don't mind me borrowing it Jamo!
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/JamosSnipe001_zps00xsxe8a.jpg)
I used a 2 mm piece of brass tubing as my connector and found that it was too long. It's a tight space here by the time you factor in the eyelet!
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1905-Text_zpsmzk92pvw.jpg)
I switched gears and replaced the 2 mm tube with a 1 mm piece and this fit perfectly.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1906-Text_zpsi2xzz6pq.jpg)
The only other recourse would have been to pass the line fully through the landing gear strut, glue it in place, and forego using a connector. Luckily, it didn't come to that.
The cross bracing forward of the cockpit isn't well illustrated in the instruction booklet so it was a bit of a guessing job for me. The lines need to cross at the fuselage mounting points or else they'll touch the MGs.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1918_zpsmfi37uru.jpg)
With the wings rigged, I moved on to the landing carriage. Again, I found the instruction booklet less than adequate here but Jamo to the rescue again! He has some excellent photos of the rigging in this area. I don't know where I'd be without his excellent research and I applaud him for sharing it with us.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1915_zps09kaia7c.jpg)
The model was leaning a bit to one side but that was easily corrected by applying some extra tension to the appropriate bracing line. Again, the landing carriage is quite stout on it's own and with the addition of the bracing, it's very sturdy.
So here's where she stands right now. About all that's left to do is paint the rigging, add the aileron control lines, install the engine, cowl, and propeller, and she's finished.
(http://i331.photobucket.com/albums/l474/ChrisJohnson56/Sopwith%20Snipe%20Leicester-Canada%20Tribute/DSCN1920_zpsk2neaxg9.jpg)
Thanks for looking in!
Cheers,
Chris
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It's been awhile Chris , really love how this project is turning out so far .
Terri
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Very nice work Chris!
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Outstanding rigging work! Your Snipe continues to be an amazing build!
RAGIII
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Lovely work Chris, and you are now officially in the lead and by a large margin at that. Your rigging looks really good, and thanks for the comment on the crossing over of the lateral front cabane wires, I haven't done them yet and would probably have missed that until I rigged onto the guns! Such a clean overall Build, and such a unique subject as well, a totally winning combination. 8)
Cheers,
Lance
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Excellent work, Chris! You're 'way in the lead compared to me: haven't started yet! But the three for Ottawa are done and Ken's Herc is well underway. Might get back to fabric and wire sooner than I thought! <G>
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Great work, Chris! The rigging is coming together very nicely!
George
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Outstanding work, Chris.
Cheers
Martin
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Superb job of the rigging, Chris! Approaching the
finish line, I have to say again what a terrific job
you have done on the Snipe. Well done, my friend!
Cheers,
Ernie :)
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An amazing model, superb finish and colorful livery.
well done!
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Thanks everyone for stopping by and demonstrating your support.
I've put the finishing touches on the model and have now moved it over to the Completed Models board.
Cheers,
Chris