Hawkeye’s Squawkbox

Why not, it seems to be the thing to do, slam a manufacturer for a kit that doesn’t meet one’s muster. Why should I plunk out my hard earned dollar for a model that, to put it bluntly, sucks. I’m a bit frustrated by those out there who continually lambaste a model because it doesn’t meet their “standard” of the quality. They’re of the option that a model kit company has failed because they could make or is capable of making something much better.

All models are not created equal! A company, any company cannot be all things to all people, that is a fact. Regardless of what product a company designs, develops and produces it isn’t made for everyone, thought it would be nice if everyone bought it. Not only are we talking about models but television programs, games, movies, automobiles (the list is infinite), but everything on this planet. Snow isn’t your thing, you move to a warmer climate. A Dodge Neon doesn’t suit your preferences, then buy a Lexus (both represent a car with different sense of accuracy and quality).

If a model doesn’t meet your expectations, don’t buy it. Models are not produced for all levels of modeling. An expert or experience builder is rarely satisfied with a entry level kit. So those kits are left for modelers less experienced. Models are representations/replicas not exact copies, though many are very accurate compared to others. But there are exceptions, there are experienced modelers who will take a simple kit and add details rivaling those “high end” kits.

Economic factors come to play with what models modelers purchase. In the past couple of years we’ve all heard about the shortcomings in Dragon’s 1:32 P-51 family of kits. Then again there are the 21st Century Toys offerings as well. They lack a certain amount of sophistication some modelers have come to expect from newer releases. But the fact is they do make up into some pretty nice looking large scale models for a affordable price! Those who have build any of them did find certain issues, but they still look impressive when completed. The more skilled the modeler, the better they look. However, dollar for dollar they’re worth the price.

The diatribe of negativity doesn’t do anyone or anything any good. Many of the youth and returning modelers we are hoping to attract, can be quickly disillusioned by the amount of negativity they find around our modeling communities. This negativity is expressed by a vocal minority. This is the time of Web 2.0, the socialization of the world via the internet. It has proven effective to promote as well as to destroy.

Over my nearly forty years of scale modeling I have seen a great deal of quality levels in kit offerings. We’ve all probably purchased kits that were less than stellar for the high price we paid. But if you wanted a representation of a specific subject and that was the only show in town, you bought it. Look at the kits that we bought some twenty years ago compared to now. If you haven’t noticed many of those same “substandard ” kits are returning to the market. Why?

Because they do have a place in the market and in our hobby. When I was younger the Monogram 1:32 P-51 with all of its features was ultimately cool. I managed to assemble it, complete with gobs of glue everywhere yet it still managed to capture my attention and I felt a sense of accomplishment when it was done. Which I might add has lasted all these years. Hey look they are still being sold too!

Looking at those entering into our hobby of scale modeling, it is important that they find the subjects they want to model, be able to afford them and have success in their experience of assembling them. For a kid, regardless of age, a large scale model is impressive. If you can purchase that kit at a bargain price it makes it even better.

Yes there are kits still being made that lack accuracy, detail and have assembly issues, but they were not necessarily marketed with you in mind. Do not expect all things in life to be to your liking, just as not everyone sees you in the same light.

Just because a kit isn’t a “perfect” or “shake n bake” kit, doesn’t mean it doesn’t have a place in our hobby. Modelers of yesteryear did more with a whole lot less. I encourage you to express your opinions, but please don’t continue to show discontent for products you disapprove of…there are those who actually might find them satisfactory and enjoyable. There are those folks who appreciate a new Neon as much as some appreciate their Lexus.

Let’s make a concerted effort to promote the hobby and the industry that makes it possible in a positive manner. Negativism just takes an otherwise enjoyable hobby down. It also sends a strong message to the producers whom continue to produce kits in this time of uncertain economics.

Marketing is centered around perceptions. If the perception is that what they are producing isn’t wanted or appreciated, then a strong probability exists they will redirect their energies elsewhere, which may not include model kits.

Remember it is a hobby and it is suppose to be FUN! As far as the Dragon Mustang, well I found it to be a fun build, in fact I built two. The 21st Century Toys, well those two are a quick builders dream. As a modeler with some advanced skill sets I also found it to be a canvas with great potential, accuracy aside. That’s my opinion.

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Fathers Day: the third Sunday in June appointed for the honoring of fathers.

Well that’s what Webster’s Dictionary describes it as…but for many of us it is more than a day on the calendar set aside to honor fathers. There are some, who never knew who their father was and those who did, but never had a father that took an active role in their lives.

I was most fortunate not only to have a father, but I have to this say, I have a DAD! A dad is more than just a father, he is someone who expresses his love for you through his deeds and actions. He can be a trusted adviser, friend and even disciplinarian when the time warrants.

My father set an example for me to follow, as well as the courage to follow my dreams. I felt so empowered that I took on the challenge of following in his footsteps, being the second generation of our family to serve our country…joining the United States Air Force as he had right out of High School.

He supported my interest in aircraft, which eventually lead me to scale modeling. Or was it the other way around? When I wanted to learn to fly as a teen, my dad found a way for it to happen. We’ve even shared careers after the military, we’ve worked together along with my sons at a local hardware store. Three generations working side by side, fathers and sons together.

Which was admired by coworkers and customers alike.

Some of our most pleasurable times were such simple things as going out for the occasional breakfast together. Visiting hobby shops in search of an elusive model. Attending air shows, walking the grounds in search of a rare little known aircraft that carried a military cargo designation. As well he could be counted on as my co-pilot while we took to the air for some flying fun.

My dad has always been available to lend a hand to help with a project that needed an extra set of hands. He’s eager to ride along to keep me company while on a business trips, which we always find something of interest to both of us to stop and visit. Read: A Great Way To Spend A Friday

So take the time to show your father how important he is in your life. Take your dad out for a meal or just show up to help him with a project. Or even just sit and chat! If you are too far away, be sure to call and make his day.

If I don’t say it enough…Thanks Dad! Happy Father’s Day!

A note about the pictures…in the first one, this is my dad standing in front of the military aircraft he ever saw first hand, a C-82 Packet. Middle photo is my dad on duty at Pease AFB, NH. The last picture was taken at EAA ‘97 in front of a now rare C-82!

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Each time there is an increase of postage rates, I find myself digging through the back of my desk drawer to sort through my collection of stamps to offset the difference. What a collection I have accumulated! I hope the person who gets the letter with all of those little denomination stamps doesn’t think I’m nuts.

There is however “GOLD IN THEM THAR HILLS STAMPS” for a resourceful modeler that is. So before you toss those empty books away of used up stamps, take a look for those that have these on them.

What you have are instant circle templates for painting roundels! Or other circular patterns that need a mask or guide. Start with the outer area to apply a white, then insert the other rings to mask for the other colors. With a little care you can use them several times.

These work well for smaller 1:48 scale aircraft as well as larger 1:72…give them a try.

If you have a suggestion for a tip you’d like to see or have one to share, drop me a note at newsletter@hawkeyeshobbies.com

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