This kits is a relative easy build. It does have a few minor fit issues that can be addressed by using various techniques. The most important one being repeated test fitting and adjustment of both the parts and the sequence of assembly. There were a couple of places where I needed to add filler in the form of cardstock, stretched sprue or filler.

I found the intakes needing the addition of cardstock to fill the gap. This was the best solution, though it did require a bit of filing, sanding and polishing to blend it in. But worth the time spent. The other major seam issue I had to deal with was the upper fuselage panels and wing. A suggestion came along (unfortunately too late for me) from Jon Bius of fitting the panels to the wing before attaching them to the upper fuselage. In hindsight his suggestion has merit wish I had done it that way myself. I filled the front gap with stretched sprue and the aft with filler putty.

The use of the putty allowed me to create a smooth transition from the aft section of the wing to the upper fuselage. I used masking tape, applied along and to protect panel lines in the area where I only wanted it applied. I did not want to deal with having to remove or feather the putty over a large area, just the panel(s) necessary to get the smooth transition.  Remember to apply putty in several thin layers, not one heavy one. Let each dry before applying the next layer. After the putty had cured solid I removed the masking tape then sanded and polished it into shape. Satisfied with the results I then rescribed any panel lines that were covered or compromised.

With the seams all sanded and polished I turned my attention to the edges of the wings to ensure there were no gaps left between the upper and lower surfaces. Finding none I sanded and polished those to prep them for painting. This as I said was going to get painted with Talon Series Acrylic NMF paints.

I’ve been repeatedly asked if the Talon Series Acrylic NMF Paints can be tinted like the SnJ Spray Metals can. The answer is: YES! This project will be used to test the tinting of the Talon with other manufacturer’s products. So far I have given the aircraft an overall application of Talon Series-Aluminum.  I misted on several light coats to get the coverage I desired then allowed it to cure for a couple of days.

Using masking tape I masked to protect the areas around the panels I selected to apply the first different tint to. In this case I added some Tamiya Gloss Black to the Aluminum I had been using to apply the base color. Just a couple of lightly misted layers to get the coverage, then removed the tape to reveal the panels.

I’ll be experimenting with Blues, Browns, Grays as well as other colors and manufacturers paints too. I do recommend that you use glossy acrylic paints to keep the sheen consistant for decaling. You can always apply a flat after the decals are applied to reduce the luster.

This is getting interesting! I want to get the painting do so I can apply the decals I have selected from the spares stash to create the What-If TSR-2 I have thought up. More on painting and a bit of polishing in the next segment.