I've also started work on the rear bed assembly.

After reading an article on the Perth Military Modelling site, it came to light that the instructions would have you fit the gun at the wrong end of the bed, putting all the weight distribution wrong. I followed their advice & re-versed the mounting holes in the bed.

You'll notice two slightly untidy slots at one end, these should be holes but I followed the dimensions in the instructions to the letter & the gun platform would not line up! I adjusted the holes to slots so as to have some lee way when fitting it, the slots arn't visible when the gun platform is fitted.

I wanted to try something I've not done before, adding scuff marks & scratches to the rear bed. I'm sure there would have been plenty with the crew clambouring around whilst in action!

I've undercoated the bed in a woody brown colour & on top of this I've applied a couple of coats of AK Interactive chipping fluid (similar to the hairapray technique but more adaptable) Over this the green topcoat has now been applied, next step is to moisten the surface & scrub with a brush or cocktail stick to reproduce wear & tear.

Lets see how it goes!

Wilfy

Hi Wilfy
Keep up the great work.
Best regards.
Mark

Thanks once again for your support & comments.

Got the top coat on the rear bed & added the scuffing & scratches.

As I said, first time I've used the AK chipping fluid & I was surprised how easy it was, great stuff!

I left the top coat to dry out for a couple of days (more through necessity than choice) & I was worried that maybe it had hardened off too much & the effect wouldn't work.

I dampened the surface with water & started scrubbing fairly lightly with a clean brush, initially nothing happened, but after a minute or two it started to go & the top coat just disolved. Have to be careful here, as once it starts it could be easy to remove too much. A cocktail stick can also be used for smaller scratches.

I wanted to keep it a bit subtle & in the areas of most traffic as a little is better.

I have to say I was very pleased with the result. After a filter & washes, think it will look alright, even if I do say so myself.

Thanks again all, any comments welcome.

Thanks John.

Cost in the region of £4.00 for a 35 ml bottle, so not cheap but does go a long way, only needed about 1/2 ml for the bed & side walls. Vallejo do a similar product but not sure of cost.

You can also use hairspray decanted into your airbrush, but it is such a minefield knowing what 'hold' works that personally I wouldn't bother & am happier to go for a product that is designed for purpose.

AK Interactive also now offer an airbrush ready chipping colour which I think could be very useful, can also be applied by brush, sponge etc I've got a bottle but not tried it yet.

Thanks again

Wilfy

Hi Wilfy
That certainly has done the job and looks great
regards
Andy

Here's a view from the front & top.

Wilfy

And the Flak itself is comin together as well.

You won't see it it my rubbish photography but the muzzle detail on the turned barrel is very good, will set it off a treat.

Thanks for looking again all. All comments truly welcome.

Wilfy

Nice work Wilfy and yh etch can be a challenge at times il swop that gun shield any day for the Akagi deck . Keep the pics coming your doing a fine job
regards
Andy

Very nice shiny bits. This is a very neat and good looking build. Way to go.
John