Tamiya F-16C Block 50

[jelliott523]

I've been working on this Tamiya F-16C Block 50 kit since the start of the year. My goal for the year is to actually complete more kits, and so far, I've already tied what I was able to complete last year.

This kit is somewhat of a fictional build. I used the Speed Hunter Graphics decals for F-16 SEAD aircraft. I am building this as a representation of the F-16C's that were based at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho; however, the F-16's that were at Mt. Home were initially upgraded F-16A's before switching to the F-16C, Block 52 airframe. These aircraft were eventually transitioned to other units around the country when Mt. Home AFB switched to a strictly F-15E wing.

The build was typical Tamiya, very well fitting and only a very slight amount of filler needed. I used the Quinta 3D decals in the cockpit, and a Res-Kit engine upgrade, Res-Kit wheels and will be adding Res-Kit AMRAAM 120's to the wingtip rails.

[LyleW]

Those are good looking aircraft. Yours look mighty nice!

[Stikpusher]

Looking very sharp so far! That is gonna be a great looking build…

[keavdog]

Looking sharp. My brother was stationed at Mt Home AFB for his 4 years working on F-111s back then. Visited him a couple times. He worked for Zilog after his service and lived in Caldwell. Such a beautiful state if you're a sportsman.

[jelliott523]

Thanks! I live about 45 minutes from the base. I remember going to the base as a kid when they had the 111's and watching them fly over the desert area. I used to work for the Fire Dept in Caldwell before moving onto working for the State. It's a great place to live, born and raised here.

[BlackSheep214]

Nice Viper!

[tempestjohnny]

Fictional or not this looks awesome

[Duke Maddog]

That is a magnificent looking plane! Wow, I always wonder how you get such awesome finishes!

[Medicman71]

Man that's an awesome looking Viper. I need to finish mine. The decals I ordered are going to get here today.

[jelliott523]

That is a magnificent looking plane! Wow, I always wonder how you get such awesome finishes!

Thanks, my preferred method is very light thin coats. I typically start with a mottled base. In this case I started with Mr. Surfacer 1200 grey primer, then used a few different "dirt/oil" shades I mixed up to highlight areas for wear or streaks. Then I used MRP paint thinned with Mr. Leveling Thinner in very light even coats. I then lightened the main colors, just a tad with a very light tan and some white to act as highlights. I did use a self-made wash using 502 oils.