The model was built pretty much OOB. I did use a section of a ball-point pen for the exhaust and made the two under-side antennae from stretched sprue. I made the three "hinges" that support the gun bay cover from copper wire (I just couldn't get that cover to stay in place without them). The decals are mostly aftermarket too.
In the very first issue of FSM magazine that I ever bought (Jan. ’89), there was an article by the great Bob Steinbrun on converting this old kit into one of the P-80s that were sent to Europe in the waning days of World War Two. Bob did an incredible job and it sort of inspired me several years later when I built this Korean War-era bird. So, here’s the “Salty Dog” at the Cameron Airport. Thanks for taking a look, and as always, all comments are welcomed!
Gary
Seriously though, another great build and photo session! The P-80/F-80 has such classic lines, the crossover from the old to the new. And you have taken another Monogram Classic and done a great job showing them off. Again!
The Shooting Star is a classic and a plane that might've just missed it's "greatest calling" by a few months in Europe 1945. Thanks man!
