The F-16 Falcon
must be one of the most popular fighter jets in the modern world. Adopted
by many countries air forces including my own (Singapore), this aircraft
is sure one sleek fighting machine. So when I walked into my model
shop 6 months ago and saw this new release kit from Tamiya (its been a
while since they released something new as in completely new mold), I just
had to get it. The kit itself is awesome. High Quality molding and very
nice recessed panel lines coupled with superior fit. Almost ZERO
filler/Sanding needed. The kit decals were alright and settled nicely
after some softner and a few coats of clear, first semi gloss then
followed up with flat.
Click on
images below to see larger images
I have only
really ever done another F-16, and that was from Academy which really
wasn't up to the mark. However this F-16 offering from Tamiya really makes
the whole kit building process hassle free and thoroughly enjoyable.
I
heard this is slight scale down of the superior 1/32 Scale F-16 from
Tamiya and sure looks the way with similar decals offered however I believe this has to be the best F-16 out there on the 1/48 scale category.
I decided to paint the
aircraft in the usual 3 tone grey of the US Air Force as depicted on the
Box. Even though I own an air brush I really prefer using spray cans.
And
hence AS-25,26 and 27 cans were used as instructed by the box. Everything
in this build was OOB. Pity that I could not do the kit more justice then
I know alot of seasoned and pro modellers out there can do. Fallen into
the right hands, I believe this kit can be turned into a simply brilliant
rendition of the real aircraft. But nevertheless I enjoyed the build and
am somewhat satisfied with the outcome. Weathering was done using
Tamiya pastel chalks and panel lines using gundam pens (not a very good
method, but just too lazy to use alternatives like dirty water and Q tips
haha)
Hope you enjoy my aircraft!
Sorry about the lousy photography. I will try to improve.
Cheers
RC
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