Gary's 1/72 Fine Molds F14A Tomcat

[gweller]

My F16 build is currently stalled while awaiting paint to arrive, so I thought I would start my next build, namely the 1/72 scale Fine Molds F14A Tomcat in the colors of VF-111 Sundowners.

[gweller]

The number of parts and relative complexity of the kit is a bit daunting at first, but it looks like it will go together ok. As with most kits the first steps are to build the cockpit and nose. The kit allows you to build it with a number of access panels open, but I think I am going to go the easy route and build them closed. The cockpit has nicely raised detail and should look good after a bit of painting and application of the instrument panel decals. Some of the parts are very small, as can be seen in the second photo which shows the tiny joystick attached to a center navigators console. Fortunately it was possible to cut the joystick off from the main sprue and still leave a bit of sprue attached to act as a handle. Once the glue was dry it was a simple matter then to cut this off.

[HAWKERHUNTER]

Who doesn't just love the F14. Classic "Jolly Roger" Sqdn markings as well. You have my attention Gary.

[flyjoe180]

Lots of parts for 1/72, looks good Gary

[gweller]

Who doesn't just love the F14. Classic "Jolly Roger" Sqdn markings as well. You have my attention Gary.

Sorry to disappoint Steve, but I'm going for the Sundowners scheme instead! Wasn't brave enough to tackle the grey/white scheme, so the overall Gull Grey of VF-111 seemed a bit easier.

[HAWKERHUNTER]

I am sure it will still turn out a cracker.

[Richard48]

Sundowners always a nice choice fella.Made a few Tomcats in 1990s.Recall doing Black aces and bedevillers with the Verlinden flight deck.
Watching with interest.
Richard

[gweller]

In case any one is wondering, I haven't abandoned this build. It's just I have got a bit sidetracked by a Fujimi FGR.2 Phantom. Going to be building both at the same time, so once the Phantom is a bit more on track I'll be back onto the Tomcat.

[Richard48]

Looking forward to seeing the Fujimi Fgr2.Ive got 7 in the stash and x2 Fg1s.I still like the kits and built a few in early 90s.I used to pick them up at local shop for 9.99 in 1990ish.
Chair pulled up!!!.
Richard

[gweller]

Looking forward to seeing the Fujimi Fgr2.Ive got 7 in the stash and x2 Fg1s.I still like the kits and built a few in early 90s.I used to pick them up at local shop for 9.99 in 1990ish.
Chair pulled up!!!.
Richard

The Fujimi kits are still pretty good considering there age. I wanted to an FGR2 since getting back into the hobby and was not too keen on the Airfix offering so thought I would have a bash at the Fujimi. Knowing my luck the day after I finish it, Fine Molds will announce they are going to do a version!

[Richard48]

It would be nice but im guesing RAF ones arent as popular as other nations maybe.I know theres a 48th F4j Uk coming later this year.Look forward to your build