1/48 Airfix English Electric Lightning

Gallery Article by M.J. Gormley on July 22 2015

 

      

Here is my first submission in quite a while…years actually! Great to be back and must say I have been very inspired by all the great models that come across this great site. This was a straight OOB build that I must say was a very rewarding experience. The quality of this kit is excellent and way better than the few Airfix kits I built years ago. Very little if any filler was used and the decals went on great. I was a little concerned about the extensive walkway stripes but they went on with no problem after a coat of Testors Glosscoat.

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This jet was painted with Alclad white aluminum without any undercoat and it covered perfectly. I love and use it for that reason, as I dislike dealing with a gloss black undercoat unless the subject requires a very polished look, which in my humble opinion really doesn’t look quite right even for a factory fresh aircraft. (or maybe I’m just too lazy!) The various panels were painted with Alclad steel…I think. After decals were dry I washed the panel lines with a homemade concoction of Paynes grey water color paint, dish soap and water. After it was dry, I wiped the excess off wit a slightly damp paper towel and q-tips. To finish up, semi-gloss lacquer was applied and there you have it. A very impressive kit that I think rivals what’s coming out of Tamiya or Hasegawa.

Best of luck with your modeling… and in life!  God bless.

M.J. Gormley

Photos and text © by M.J. Gormley