Andrew McKeever's Bristol F.2b Fighter

[Chris Johnson]

For those of you who've been following my WnW Bristol F.2b build log, I'm happy to report that I've finished my tribute to Andrew McKeever after three months of effort. Without a doubt, this is the most complex model I've ever built and looking back, I think I bit off more than I could comfortably chew. Even though I stumbled badly with an incorrect wing stagger that caused me grief, I did manage to make a caned seat from scratch and add extended exhaust pipes. All in all, I'm pretty pleased with my first attempt at achieving a weather worn look about her, but I know that I can improve my technique in future efforts.

I learned a lot along the way, and most importantly, enjoyed the whole process. Now that I know where and why I went wrong, I might even try my hand at a second F.2b to see if I can get it right. 

A big shout out to Rowan Broadbent for issuing McKeever's decals and to Lance Carroll and Gary Barling (Trackpad) for their advice and patience with my never ending questions and rookie's observations. Finally, Des was instrumental in the completion of this model as without the detailed, annotated images of his immaculate F.2b he so kindly shared, I'd never have managed to get the rigging configuration looking somewhat like it should. My mistakes, not his! 



















Thanks for dropping by and having a look.

Cheers,

Chris

[LindsayT]

Let me be the first to congratulate you on a beautiful build, Chris. She's one to be proud of!

Lindsay

[coyotemagic]

Congratulations, Chris!  She's truly stunning.  One would never know that you had had any problems with her if you hadn't mentioned it.  Your painting, weathering and rigging are all top notch and I love that first photo with McKeever.  Brilliant presentation.  I'd be proud to display this one in my case.  So, Barker's Snipe next?
Cheers,
Bud

[kinnies]

Sharp, very sharp. Congrats on a great build.
John

[IanB]

Very nice indeed, well worth the time and effort.

Ian

[Des]

Congratulations Chris on completing a museum quality model. Through all the trials and tribulations you managed to create a truely realistic representation of Andrew McKeever's Bristol F.2b fighter, the overall finish is superb with excellent painting and weathering, and the rigging looks exceptional. This is quite a difficult kit to build but you have proven to be up to the task, your modeling skills and your problem solving techniques are proof of your incredible talents, very well done Chris and I keenly look forward to your next challenge.
The first photo you posted should be framed, it is extremely well done and a great tribute to Andrew McKeever.

Des.

[uncletony]

It's excellent Chris. You have some very convincing textures going on... The leather combing in the forward cockpit is particularly good.

[bobs_buckles]

Hi Chris,
What a stunner!
Thanks for the journey.

Cheers,
Bob 

[PrzemoL]

Now, that looks amazingly complicated - British rigging with double wires in two bays, open engine... A real beauty. Fine modelling Chris, congratulations!
So now go for something yet more complex - A Fee or a DH2 maybe?

[Epeeman]

Stunning work, Chris -

Don this kit proud - a real exhibition piece.  Braver than me taking on this beastie!

Regards

Dave

[rhallinger]

Absolutely beautiful result Chris, even if the road to get there was a bit rocky at times.  Happens to all of us!   I really love the first photo as enhanced!  Well done.  You've imparted courage to many of us who want to tackle the Biff one day.

Regards,

Bob

[Chris Johnson]

Thanks everyone for your comments. I really appreciate your continued support as I lurch along from one project to another. It's especially nice to know that such a talented group of modellers will take the time to follow and comment on builds by guys like me who aren't even in the same ballpark as the rest of you. That's what makes this forum such a great place to visit. You guys keep me motivated to try and improve with each model I build.

In answer to the questions posed . . .

Bud: Barker's Snipe is definitely on the 'to do' list!

PrzemoL: After rigging this F.2b, I have an itch to try either the DH2 or Fee. Maybe both as they're sitting in the pile ready to go.

Epeeman and rhallinger: If I can manage to complete this kit, absolutely anyone can. I hope to see you both tackle it. Now you'll know where to take particular care!

Cheers,

Chris

[mgunns]

Hello Chris:

Truly and outstanding job.   The rigging is as complex as the Heller 1/100 Victory, just not as much of it and you did a great job with it even overcoming the challenges you did to finish it.  It looks great and now the challenge is to get mine out and do it.  I like your tribute to McKeever as well, a very fitting presentation.

Best

Mark

[Chris Johnson]

It looks great and now the challenge is to get mine out and do it.  I like your tribute to McKeever as well, a very fitting presentation.

Just as I suggested to Epeeman and rhallinger, don't be shy about digging it out of the pile Mark. You'll find a lot of enjoyment in the build.

Cheers,

Chris

[lcarroll]

Chris,
   Magnificent opening photo and an equally magnificent model. Congratulations on a beautiful finish, Gary and I will be there hopefully sooner rather then later but you've definitely won this race. There will be several more "PM's" coming your way as I'll be picking your brain on this one.
   If your reference to the "Collishaw Project" means the Tripe, go for it.................hopefully I can finish this Bif before you've got that one done too. On that topic there are certain benefits to trailing your progress; I certainly prefer your falling into the various "traps" to being there myself, I owe you big time already!
Cheers,
Lance